Want Connecticut’s charming lifestyle without Greenwich’s high prices? Don’t give up on the dream. You can afford a house in the Constitution State if you know where to look.
Your perfect home could be a family-friendly house in Waterbury or a starter home in Hartford, the state’s capital and cultural hub. If you’re retiring, look at homes for sale in New London to enjoy an affordable coastal lifestyle, with median home prices under $290,000.
After assessing hundreds of cities, we’ve ranked the 10 most affordable places to live in Connecticut to help you find a home that fits your budget.
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Key Takeaways
- Waterbury is the most affordable city: Waterbury’s cost of living is 5% lower than the national average. With a median home price of $296,500, it is the cheapest place to live in Connecticut.
- Hartford is the best city for young professionals: Ranked #8 on LinkedIn’s fastest-growing metros for jobs and young talent, Hartford is a prime spot to build a career in insurance, healthcare, and manufacturing.
- For families, Waterbury is a great choice: With affordable housing, community support programs, and access to quality childcare and educational resources, Waterbury is an ideal place to raise a family on a budget.
- Retirees should consider New London: Retirees can enjoy a relaxed coastal lifestyle, with homes typically ranging from $285,000 to $320,000, plus access to maritime attractions and healthcare facilities.
- Don’t forget Connecticut’s property tax: Property taxes average around 1.92% (third-highest in the U.S.), and winter heating costs can add $2,000+ annually. So, your $296,500 home could end up costing you significantly more.
Cheapest Places to Live in Connecticut in 2026
| City | Median Home Value | Median House Rent | Cost of Living Compared to State Average | Affordability Score (out of 10) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Waterbury | $296,500 | $1,480 | 19% lower ⬇️ | 7.5 |
| 2. Torrington | $312,450 | $1,425 | 17% lower ⬇️ | 7.4 |
| 3. East Hartford | $291,000 | $1,489 | 11% lower ⬇️ | 7.3 |
| 4. Norwich | $296,000 | $1,594 | 10% lower ⬇️ | 7.1 |
| 5. New Britain | $340,000 | $1,535 | 16% lower ⬇️ | 6.9 |
| 6. Hartford | $320,500 | $1,585 | 10% lower ⬇️ | 6.9 |
| 7. Meriden | $330,000 | $1,655 | 10% lower ⬇️ | 6.7 |
| 8. Bristol | $355,000 | $1,625 | 10% lower ⬇️ | 6.5 |
| 9. Bridgeport | $400,000 | $1,703 | 2% lower ⬇️ | 5.9 |
| 10. New London | $442,500 | $1,675 | 2% lower ⬇️ | 5.6 |
How We Ranked the Most Affordable Places to Live in Connecticut
To identify the cheap places to live in Connecticut, we carried out an in-depth analysis using multiple reliable data sources and indicators of affordability.
Data Sources:
- Median Home Prices: We used Houzeo’s Connecticut Housing Market report and double-checked the numbers with the Center for Real Estate and Urban Economic Studies at UConn.
- Median Rent: We got the rent data from C2ER, which publishes the national Cost of Living Index. This was verified every few months to make sure it’s accurate.
- Overall Cost of Living: We covered 6 big spending categories— housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods— from C2ER and Houzeo’s Cost of Living in Connecticut Calculator. We then compared everything to the U.S. average of 100.
We studied housing data from 2022 to 2025 to identify cities that remained affordable over time, not just during short dips in prices. Furthermore, each city’s data was also cross-checked with HUD and state economic reports.
All our information is up to date as of 2025, ensuring you receive the most current insights.
Affordability Scoring:
We built a simple scoring system that focuses on what really matters:
- Median Home Price (40%)
- Median Rent (35%)
- Cost of Living (25%)
This way, we can clearly show which Connecticut cities give you the best value for your money. You can also check out our score breakdown to see how each city was ranked.
Image credits: All blog images are sourced from Freepik.
10 Cheapest Places to Live in Connecticut
Waterbury is the cheapest city in Connecticut in our list, famous for its strong healthcare industry. The city is known for historic buildings like the Waterbury Courthouse. If you want a cheap cost of living and rent, there are a variety of homes on sale in Waterbury to explore.
- Town Plot: Town Plot residents gets proximity to Chase Park and the Harrub Pilgrim Memorial at Highland and Sunnyside Avenues. The neighborhood is also known for the annual Our Lady of Mount Carmel feast in July, which attracts visitors to the area.
- East End: This neighborhood connects Interstate 84 from Downtown Waterbury to the Cheshire line. The Waterbury Public Schools like Crosby High are located here. Residents have nearby green space at Hamilton Park, one of the city’s largest parks, and Fairlawn Playground for recreational activities.
- Village of Waterbury (Downtown Core): It appeals to residents who want walkable access to the Palace Theater, the Mattatuck Museum, City Hall, courthouse offices, and downtown transit.
- Job Market: Waterbury’s economy centers on healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail. Major employers include St. Mary’s Health Care System, Waterbury Hospital, Naugatuck Valley Community College, and Waterbury Industrial Commons.
- Recreation: Waterbury maintains 31 parks totaling approximately 1,000 acres of public green space. There are ample recreation centers like North End Recreation Center and River-Baldwin Recreation Center for year-round programs. Municipal Stadium and Palace Theater are there sports and culture events.
- High Crime Rates: Among 228 cities in the US, Waterbury ranked 85th for crime rate. 3,378 property crimes were reported per 10,000 people in the city.
- Limited Job Diversity: Waterbury lacks high-paying tech and corporate jobs, with most opportunities concentrated in healthcare, retail, and manufacturing.
- Serious Poverty Level: With 23.9%, Waterbury’s poverty rate is more than double Connecticut’s statewide average of 10.2%.
Known for affordable homes in Connecticut, the former mill town is situated around Naugatuck River Valley. Torrington is also famous for its performing arts scene. Meanwhile, the healthcare and civil construction sectors are major local employers.
👉If you wish to buy your next residence, there are homes for sale in Torrington to match your requirements.
- West Torrington: The western section features low-density housing near rural edges with a residential, semi-rural feel. It appeals to buyers seeking proximity to Torrington High School and outdoor recreation areas with trails for hiking and nature activities.
- Torrington Northwest: Torrington Northwest mixes older homes and some multifamily units. Residents stay near Torrington Middle School zones and Alvord Park (63 acres with disc golf, soccer fields, BMX track). The Torrington Parks and Recreation summer concert series draw locals for gatherings.
- Job Market: Torrington’s job base centers on healthcare and construction, with Charlotte Hungerford Hospital as a major employer, followed by Altek Electronics and O&G Industries in construction and building materials.
- Recreation: Torrington offers Coe Memorial Park with gardens, walking paths, tennis courts, and seasonal community events. The city’s Red Mountain Trail and Still River Greenway support outdoor activity.
- Lacking Job Diversity: Employment is concentrated in healthcare and manufacturing. High paying jobs in IT and finance sectors are lacking.
- Aging Population: Median age of 43.4 years with old-age dependency ratio of 27.8 Connecticut’s Reemployment Portal, indicating an aging workforce and potential strain on municipal services as younger residents relocate to larger metro areas.
- Aging Utility Infrastructure: In 2025, multiple gas leaks were reported in Torrington which caused forced closures of downtown streets like Main Street and Route 202. It eventually raised concern about city’s old utility infrastructure.
East Hartford is home to Goodwin University and serves as a major aerospace employment hub, anchored by Pratt & Whitney. For those seeking industrial jobs and nearby green spaces, homes for sale in East Hartford remain relatively affordable.
- Burnside / Great River Park: Residents value riverfront access. Martin Park has a seasonal public pool and splash pad. The Hockanum River Linear Trail offers walking and biking access.
- Hockanum: This residential neighborhood is centered around Hockanum Elementary School and Hockanum Park on High Street. The area also includes Terry Pool. It is an Olympic-size 50-meter outdoor pool which opens mainly in summer.
- Job Market: East Hartford’s job market is anchored in aerospace, utilities, and healthcare, led by employers like Pratt & Whitney and Connecticut Natural Gas. Manufacturing and logistics jobs grew through 2025 with airport expansion, while retail and service growth lagged the metro average.
- Recreation: Key sites include Great River Park with riverfront trails and kayak launches and the Rentschler Field event venue hosting concerts. Community centers like the East Hartford Golf Course offer walking paths and seasonal outdoor programs.
- Elevated Property Crime: East Hartford’s property crime rate is 1,670 per 100K, above the state average which is 1,366 per 100K.
- Limited Walkability: The city is largely car-dependent, with buses connecting to Hartford. However, most neighborhoods lack walkable access to daily services.
- Environmental & Flood Risk: East Hartford faces frequent flooding and storm water issues. Heavy rains can overwhelm old drainage systems, threatening roads and low-lying properties.
Norwich is one of the most affordable cities in Connecticut and has the second-lowest median house price on our list. The city is known for its scenic rivers, including the Thames River. If you want to enjoy nature while keeping housing costs low, there are many homes on sale in Norwich for you to explore.
- Bean Hill: This residential area lies just northeast of the Waterbury Green and includes local shops and services near the neighborhood core. Residents enjoy nearby access to parks like Hamilton Park for outdoor recreation and community space.
- Chelsea (Downtown): This neighborhood centers on Downtown Waterbury’s historic core, with cultural destinations such as the Palace Theater and the Mattatuck Museum nearby.
- Job Market: Norwich’s economy centers on healthcare, municipal services, and education, with major employers like Backus Hospital, Norwich Free Academy, and local utilities. Manufacturing roles are available at Gunther International, supporting the city’s industrial base.
- Recreation: Residents enjoy Occum Park with ball fields, picnic areas, and river access, and Mohegan Park, offering trails, playgrounds, and swimming. Downtown hosts outdoor cultural events, while the Shetucket and Yantic Rivers provide kayaking, and local rail trails support walking and cycling.
- Higher Violent Crime: Norwich’s violent crime rate is above the Connecticut average, with about 206 incidents per 100,000 residents, indicating a higher relative risk for offenses involving force or threat of force.
- Limited Local Amenities: Norwich has local dining and entertainment options but lacks the breadth of major retail chains and full‑scale entertainment venues.
- Commuting Challenges: Traffic on major roads like I‑395 and Route 2 can get busy, and accidents sometimes cause delays, making it harder to get around or reach bigger stores and entertainment spots.
New Britain is one of the most affordable places to live in CT. Its location offers easy access to the city, while parks, and neighborhoods. There are many homes for sale in New Britain for buyers who prioritize value and accessibility over new construction.
- Arch Street Area: This neighborhood offers homes near Arch Street and Washington Primary School. NRZ projects focus on street safety, housing rehab, and local community programs.
- East Side: Close to Walsh Elementary School and Chase Avenue shops, this area benefits from Neighborhood Revitalization Zone (NRZ) funding for playground upgrades and sidewalks.
- North & Oak: Residents have access to Walnut Hill Park and daily needs along North Main Street. The NRZ channels city funds for park and street improvements.
- Job Market: New Britain’s economy centers on manufacturing and healthcare, reflecting its “Hardware City” history. Major employers include Stanley Black & Decker, Hospital of Central Connecticut, and Hospital for Special Care.
- Recreation: Residents enjoy Walnut Hill Park, an Olmsted‑designed public park with walking paths and gardens. The New Britain Museum of American Art, founded in 1903, is a noted cultural attraction for American art.
- Crime Risk: New Britain ranks 4th in violent crimes in Connecticut with 421 people involved per 100,000.
- Limited Income Growth: New Britain’s median household income is $57,036, far below Connecticut’s $93,760 average, which can limit buying power.
- Older Housing Stock: Much of New Britain’s housing was built before 1960, meaning residents are more likely to suffer from outdated systems, higher maintenance needs, and renovation costs.
The insurance Capital of the world and the capital of Connecticut, Hartford is one of the most affordable and safest cities of the Nutmeg State, with median home values near $320,500. Residents enjoy urban convenience alongside green space like Bushnell Park.
- West End: This historic residential neighborhood features tree‑lined streets with Victorian, Tudor, and Colonial homes. Residents have access to West End elementary and middle schools. Nearby Elizabeth Park has rose gardens and walking trails.
- Frog Hollow: Frog Hollow has rowhouses and brick architecture. Residents walk to Park Street shops, Pope Park, and Hartford Public Schools, with downtown attractions like Bushnell Park nearby.
- Asylum Hill: Asylum Hill area is a mix of homes, apartments, and institutional buildings. It provides access to Asylum Hill elementary and middle schools, Sigourney Square Park, the Mark Twain House, and downtown amenities.
- Job Market: Hartford is the capital of Connecticut. It is also called the world’s insurance capital, with major employers including Aetna, The Hartford, Travelers, and Cigna. Healthcare and education are also key sectors.
- Recreation: The Connecticut Science Center has interactive exhibits, and the Mark Twain House & Museum offers tours. Pope Park and Bushnell Park host concerts, festivals, and the Hartford Marathon. Riverfront trails along the Connecticut River support walking, running, and recreation.
- Flood Risks: Significant flood vulnerability affects 19% of buildings, driven by the Connecticut River.
- Insurance-Dependent Economy: Heavy reliance on the insurance sector creates vulnerability, with modest statewide job growth of only 1,800 positions masking private sector losses.
- Persistent Population Exodus: The Hartford metro area ranks among the top 25 nationally for outbound moves, with 63% of movers leaving, driven by retirement and job opportunities elsewhere.
Meriden is one of the cheapest places to live in Connecticut, with living costs 10% below the state average, alongside rents 10% under the national figure. Buyers eyeing homes for sale in Meriden, CT will appreciate connectivity through the CTtransit Meriden Division’s bus routes and proximity to I-91 for regional travel.
- Meriden Northeast: Upper-middle-income rural neighborhood with homes priced around $324,000. Appeals to families due to exceptional child poverty rates ranking in the top 0.0% nationally and income levels exceeding 75.8% of U.S. neighborhoods.
- South Meriden: Older suburban area with median homes dating to 1960, adjacent to Hanging Hills’ trap rock ridges offering extensive trail systems. Residents value access to Meriden Transit Center providing Amtrak and Hartford Line commuter rail service.
- Hanover District: This area has family-oriented homes built between the early 1940s to 1969, anchored by Hanover Elementary School serving students with bilingual programs. It is appealing to residents due to Hanover Pond’s 70-acre waterfront recreation and tree-lined less crowded streets.
- Job Market: Meriden’s job base spans healthcare, manufacturing, and finance, with major employers such as MidState Medical Center, Planet Home Lending, and manufacturing firms like Radio Frequency Systems and Canberra Industries supporting local employment.
- Recreation: Meriden has extensive parkland across the city, including Hunter Memorial Golf Club and trail systems that connect to regional paths. Community highlights include the Daffodil Festival, aviation activity at Meriden Markham Airport, and seasonal live music events.
- High Crime Rates: Meriden’s overall crime rate stands at around 26 per 1,000 residents which is higher than 92% of Connecticut communities but slightly below the national average.
- Limited Job Diversification: The economy relies heavily on healthcare and manufacturing sectors. Those looking for opportunities in finance, tech, or retail will have a hard time.
- Traffic Congestion: The I‑91/I‑691/Route 15 interchange in Meriden is a known congestion hotspot. Frequent lane closures and construction-related backups make commuting through this area challenging.
Bristol, CT has median home prices around $310,000, 25% below the state average. Homes for sale in Bristol offer CTtransit service and I‑84 access to Hartford. The city features Lake Compounce, Rockwell Park, and dining at Parkside Cafe and Main Street Pint & Plate.
- Edgewood: Residents value proximity to Ellen P. Hubbell Elementary School, St. Joseph Church, and nearby green space like Seymour Park with playgrounds and recreation.
- Federal Hill: This area near downtown Bristol is known for 19th-century Victorian and Italianate homes. The neighborhood features Federal Hill Green with a playground and gazebo and is served by Bristol Central High School.
- Lake Compounce vicinity: Suburban residential area near Lake Compounce, located off Enterprise Drive. The neighborhood provides access to Lake Compounce Amusement Park, America’s oldest continuously operating theme park (since 1846).
- Job Market: Key industries in Bristol include healthcare, media, and manufacturing. Major employers feature Bristol Hospital, ESPN headquarters, and Wheeler Health.
- Recreation: Bristol offers Rockwell Park, a 104-acre space with a pool, splash pad, and recreation facilities. Downtown, the New England Carousel Museum features a working antique carousel. Meanwhile, the Bristol Farmers Market runs seasonally on Main Street with local produce and artisan goods.
- Elevated Property Crime: Bristol’s property crime rate stands at approximately 12 per 1,000 residents. Vehicle theft rates are notably higher than average at 2.65 per 1,000 (1 in 245 chance).
- Limited Job Diversification: Bristol’s economy needs to expand beyond healthcare, media, and manufacturing for high paying opportunities.
- Harsh Winter Weather: Bristol experiences cold winters with average January lows around 20–28 °F and regular snowfall from late fall through early spring.
Bridgeport, CT offers affordable living, with median home prices below the state average. Residents commute easily via Metro-North, I‑95, and GBT buses, and enjoy outdoor recreation at Seaside Park and Beardsley Zoo. There are ample homes for sale in Bridgeport to suit different buyer needs.
- North End: Quiet residential neighborhood with tree-lined streets and single-family homes. Appeals to buyers near John Winthrop School and Sacred Heart University’s accessible campus.
- Brooklawn/St. Vincent: Suburban area featuring early 20th-century Colonial and Tudor-style homes. Buyers value proximity to St. Vincent’s Medical Center and Alice Street Park playgrounds.
- West Side: Historic residential zone anchored by Beardsley Park with golf course and zoo. Attracts families close to Beardsley School and park tennis courts.
- Job Market: Core industries include healthcare, logistics, and education. Major employers are Bridgeport Hospital, Housatonic Community College, PSEG Power in energy, and Sikorsky-Lockheed Martin for helicopter manufacturing.
- Recreation: The city features Seaside Park beach and the Barnum Museum showcasing local history and culture. McLevy Green serves as a downtown gathering space. The annual Barnum Festival and concerts at Webster Bank Arena attract locals for waterfront activities and cultural events.
- High Crime Numbers: Bridgeport residents face a 1 in 54 chance of becoming a crime victim annually. Property crime occurs at a rate of 14 per 1,000 residents.
- Job Market Concentration: Heavy reliance on manufacturing creates vulnerability to sector-specific downturns. The Bridgeport-Stamford-Danbury metro area posted modest job growth of 700 positions in March 2025, but Bridgeport’s Mongers Market announced permanent closure in June 2025.
- South End Flooding Risk: Bridgeport’s South End neighborhood experiences chronic flooding from both coastal and inland sources. By 2045, the city is projected to see more than 150 tidal floods annually, averaging 12 per month.
New London is an affordable coastal city with walkable downtowns and convenient Amtrak connections. Residents enjoy easy access to beaches, a rich maritime history, cultural gems like the Garde Theater, and island ferries that give the city its unique waterfront charm.
- South End (Waterfront Area): This coastal residential neighborhood has waterfront homes and lower housing density. Residents enjoy Ocean Beach Park, sandy beaches, boardwalk attractions, and Thames River views.
- Downtown Waterfront: Known for historic buildings and walkable streets, it hosts the Garde Arts Center and the Celebrate New London summer festival with live music and fireworks. The Cross Sound Ferry connects to Long Island.
- College Hill (Northwest Residential): This suburban neighborhood is adjacent to Connecticut College’s 750‑acre arboretum. Lawrence + Memorial Hospital is nearby, and the college’s public trails offer year-round outdoor recreation.
- Job Market: New London’s economy includes manufacturing and healthcare. Lawrence + Memorial Hospital and General Dynamics Electric Boat are major employers.
- Recreation: Ocean Beach Park hosts concerts, classic car nights, and fireworks. Fort Trumbull State Park offers a riverfront boardwalk, fishing pier, and walking paths around the historic fort. Seasonal water taxis connect New London and Groton historic sites via Thames River Heritage Park.
- High Violent Crime: New London’s violent crime rate was about 201 per 100,000 residents, higher than Connecticut’s average (~136 per 100k), which may concern buyers prioritizing safety.
- Job Concentration: The local economy leans heavily on defense and healthcare, with fewer opportunities in tech or diverse sectors.
- Flood Risk: Riverfront neighborhoods are prone to flooding, which can increase insurance costs and affect property safety.
Pro Tip If you’re looking for something on the southern coast, Westport could be a great option. From Saugatuck to Greens Farms, you’ll find a wide range of affordable houses in Westport with strong rental potential.
Putnam (safety score of 65) and Enfield (safety score of 82) are the cheapest and safest cities in Connecticut. They offer low crime rates, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a lively, welcoming lifestyle.
Top 3 Cheapest Cities to Live in Connecticut for Young Adults
When searching for affordable Connecticut living, young adults need more than low rent—they want career growth and community. These cities deliver all that along with good education and low cost of living.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Young Adults |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Waterbury | Manufacturing, healthcare, and education jobs are plentiful, with workforce programs through the Northwest Regional Workforce Board helping young people get trained and hired. This make it easier to build your career while keeping housing costs low. |
| 2. | Middletown | Home to Wesleyan University, Middletown has a lively college-town feel and the Middlesex Chamber’s Summer Youth Employment Program. There are several homes for sale in Middletown that offer walkable access to restaurants, shops, and nightlife, with rental rates remaining reasonable. |
| 3. | Hamden | Suburban feel just north of New Haven with strong education and health services employment. Affordable houses for sale in Hamden give young professionals quieter living without losing access to big-city job opportunities in nearby New Haven’s insurance and healthcare sectors. |
Top 3 Inexpensive Places to Live in Connecticut for Families
Connecticut attracts families with its strong school systems and access to both nature and culture. These three cities offer low living costs and excellent educational opportunities.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Retirees |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Torrington | Kids explore Carl Bozenski’s Christmas Village and the KidsPlay Children’s Museum downtown. Warner Theatre hosts family shows year-round, while Burr Pond State Park offers outdoor adventures. Budget-friendly homes for sale in Torrington attract growing families. |
| 2. | Naugatuck | The Naugatuck River Greenway through Linden Park draws active families. The historic Town Green hosts the 40th annual Harvest Moon Festival each September. Cheap homes for sale in Naugatuck suit families seeking strong elementary schools and river access. |
| 3. | Enfield | Straddling the Massachusetts border on the Connecticut River’s east bank, families enjoy Scantic River State Park for kayaking and Sunday Farmers Markets on the Town Green. Affordable homes for sale in Enfield provide easy access to Hartford jobs. |
3 Best Affordable Places to Live in Connecticut for Retirees
Connecticut is a great place to retire if you want coastal beauty, rich culture, and solid healthcare nearby. In these cities, you’ll find affordable housing in Connecticut, quality medical facilities, and quiet neighborhoods with parks, historic sites, and seasonal activities to keep retirement interesting and enjoyable.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Retirees |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Meriden | MidState Medical Center sits minutes away for health needs. Hubbard Park’s 1,800 acres and Castle Craig tower provide scenic walks, while active senior centers host daily programs. Comfortable homes for sale in Meriden make retirement living easy. |
| 2. | Manchester | Wickham Park’s 250 acres feature stunning gardens perfect for leisurely strolls. If you are looking for Main Street’s bistros and retirees community engagement without urban chaos, there are homes for sale in Manchester for you. |
| 3. | Groton | Bluff Point State Park’s coastal trails and Avery Point lighthouse deliver serene shoreline beauty. Eastern Connecticut Health Network provides nearby quality care. Tranquil homes for sale in Groton let retirees enjoy submarine history and waterfront peace. |
3 Hidden Costs to Consider in Connecticut
Even in Connecticut’s cheapest cities, home prices tell only part of the story. Connecticut’s property tax rate is around 2%, third-highest nationally, and winter heating bills can add thousands annually to ownership costs.
- Property Taxes: Connecticut’s average effective property tax rate is 1.92%, third-highest in the U.S. Counties collect an average of 1.63% of assessed value annually, varying significantly by municipality.
- Homeowners Insurance: Homeowners insurance averages around $1,700 annually in Connecticut. However, Coastal areas like New London pushes up premium over $2,000.
- Winter Heating Costs: Residents pay an average $166 monthly for electricity, $76 for heating oil, and $39 for natural gas. Over 35% of homes rely on heating oil, Connecticut’s most expensive fuel option.
Quick Tip Connecticut’s Homestead Exemption protects up to $250,000 of equity in your primary residence from most creditors and bankruptcy claims. However, it does not apply to second homes or investment properties.
Savings Breakdown: Cheapest Cities in Connecticut to Live In
Housing costs vary dramatically across Connecticut. Waterbury residents save $10,981 monthly compared to Greenwich and $5,827 compared to Middletown. The following table breaks down these savings by median home price, monthly mortgage, property tax, insurance, and total monthly costs.
| City | Median Home Price | Avg. Monthly Mortgage | Insurance/taxes | Estimated Monthly Cost for a Single Person | Monthly Savings vs. Greenwich |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Waterbury | $296,500 | $1,347 | $1,106 | $2,453 | $10,981 |
| Middletown | $1,375,000 | $6,420 | $1,860 | $8,280 | $5,154 |
| Greenwich | $2,187,200 | $10,212 | $3,222 | $13,434 | – |
Affordable Living Beyond Connecticut
Not sure if the cheapest places in Connecticut will fit your budget? Here are a few neighboring states that offer strong job markets, good education, and more affordable living.
Strong Job Market
Tennessee has robust job markets in sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and retail. It is home to 10 Fortune 500 companies. Here are the top 3 cheapest places to live in Tennessee:
- Knoxville: Median home price in the city is $302,500 and the rent is $1,748. The major employers include Covenant Health and University of Tennessee.
- Chattanooga: Median home price is around $335,000 and the rent is $1,457. Key industry players include Erlanger Health System and Unum Group from Fortune 500.
- Nashville: Median home price is approx $460,000 and the rent is $1,819. The economy is supported by Vanderbilt University Medical Center, HCA Healthcare, and Amazon.
Good Education
Wisconsin ranks 7 in education in the US . The Badger State has 2,243 public schools and 963,000 students. If you are planning to move here to gain benefits from the education system, these are top 3 cheapest places to live in Wisconsin:
- Madison: Median home price is around $445,000 and the rent is $1,784. Madison is the second largest school district with over 25,000 students in 52 schools.
- Green Bay: Median home price is close to $282,500 and the rent is $1,145. Green Bay’s schools such as Northeast Wisconsin School of Innovation (N.E.W.) focus STEM and vocational training.
- Eau Claire: Median home price is about $265,000 and the rent is $975. Eau Claire Area School District has institutions like North High School which focus on AP courses, arts, and low class sizes.
More Affordable Living
The median home price ($271,700) and median rent ($1,400) for Michigan are lower than national average. Here are the cheapest places to live in Michigan:
- Lansing: Median home price is close to $159,000 and the rent is $1,220. Food and healthcare are 11% and 6% lower than the state average, making the city more budget-friendly.
- Muskegon: With median home price around $169,900 and rent close to $985, Muskegon offers cheap housing with steady manufacturing employment opportunities nearby.
- Kalamazoo: Median home price is approx $170,000 and the rent is $1,317. The city has a vibrant college-town energy and growing healthcare sector.
Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in Connecticut?
Waterbury, Torrington, and East Hartford are the most affordable cities to live in Connecticut. These areas offer more than low prices; they also provide steady job markets, and plenty of recreation..
Moving to Connecticut also offers ample job and educational opportunities. The state also has beautiful scenery and four distinct seasons to experience.
