Connecticut
Living in Connecticut
Last updated on Mar 10, 2023
Summary: People describe life in Connecticut as a mix of urban and rural living. It is known for its beautiful scenery, historic towns, and excellent schools. People love the easy access to New York City, the abundance of outdoor activities, and the diverse culture. The average cost of living in Connecticut is higher than the national average. The median home value is around $270,000, and the median household income is around $73,000. The population of Connecticut is approximately 3.6 million people. The largest cities in Connecticut are Bridgeport, New Haven, Hartford, Stamford, and Waterbury. The cons of living in Connecticut include the high cost of living, the high taxes, and the long winters. Additionally, the traffic can be congested in some areas, and the public transportation system is not as extensive as in other states.
Is the cost of living in Connecticut high?
We asked people about the cost of living in Connecticut, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Connecticut is high compared to other states in the US. Rent in Connecticut can be expensive, with a nice one bedroom apartment costing around $1,300 and a nice two bedroom apartment costing around $1,700. A dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Connecticut can cost around $25 for an individual," said an expat in Connecticut.
What type of recreational facilities are in Connecticut?
When we asked people living in Connecticut about recreational activities, they mentioned:
"In Connecticut, residents can enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, golf courses, and trails. Parks offer a variety of activities, such as playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields. Beaches provide a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and sand. Golf courses offer a challenging and enjoyable way to spend an afternoon. Trails provide a great way to explore the outdoors and get some exercise. Connecticut also has a variety of museums, theaters, and other cultural attractions," wrote one expat living in Connecticut.
What is the weather like in Connecticut?
"The weather in Connecticut can vary greatly depending on the season. In the summer, temperatures can reach into the 80s and 90s with high humidity. In the winter, temperatures can drop into the teens and twenties with snowfall. Spring and fall are generally mild with temperatures ranging from the 40s to the 70s," said one expat.
Are there good restaurants in Connecticut?
"One of Connecticut's favorite restaurants is The Capital Grille in Hartford. This upscale steakhouse offers a variety of classic American dishes, including steaks, seafood, and salads. The restaurant also features an extensive wine list and a full bar. The Capital Grille is known for its attentive service and elegant atmosphere. Another popular restaurant in Connecticut is The Spread in South Norwalk. This restaurant offers a unique menu of American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The Spread is known for its creative dishes, such as the Lobster Mac & Cheese and the Fried Chicken Sandwich. The restaurant also features an extensive craft beer selection and a full bar. Finally, The Little Pub in Greenwich is a favorite among locals. This cozy pub offers a variety of classic pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The Little Pub is known for its friendly atmosphere and its selection of craft beers. The restaurant also features live music on the weekends," commented one expat living in Connecticut.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Connecticut?
"People living in Connecticut typically buy groceries at supermarkets, such as Stop & Shop, Big Y, and ShopRite. Other shopping can be done at malls, such as Westfarms Mall, The Shoppes at Buckland Hills, and The Shops at Mohegan Sun. Additionally, there are many independent stores and boutiques throughout the state," commented one expat who moved to Connecticut.
What are the visa & residency requirements in Connecticut?
"In order to apply for a visa to live and work in Connecticut, one must first determine the type of visa required and then contact the US Department of State or US Embassy for further details and to submit a visa application form. The visa application process typically involves a personal interview and confirmation of any necessary document requirements. In order to apply for residency in Connecticut, one must begin by filing the necessary documents and forms for a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). This may include Form I-485, Supplement A, and supporting documents such as birth certificates and proof of identity. Once the forms have been submitted, individuals may have to attend an interview to confirm their application before receiving approval. An approval of the application may take several months," commented one expat living in Connecticut.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Connecticut?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Connecticut can be expensive. The cost of health insurance premiums in Connecticut is higher than the national average, and the cost of healthcare services can also be high. Additionally, Connecticut has some of the highest out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services in the country. As a result, many people in Connecticut struggle to afford the cost of healthcare and health insurance," remarked one expat living in Connecticut.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
