Moving to Connecticut or trying to find a better place to live in The Constitution State? Check out the best neighborhoods in New Haven, CT.

1. Cheshire, CT

Located in a suburb just south of Harford, Cheshire is one of the best neighborhoods in New Haven. With a population of under 30,000 people spread across 33.4 square miles, the area is populated, but not crowded. Families with children will appreciate the high safety rating and the spacious homes in the suburban town. The houses are affordable, with a 1,400 square foot home costing upward of 250K. The area has eight public schools and houses the Cheshire Academy, a private residential school for high school students.

Cheshire, Connecticut (Photo by John Phelan | Wikimedia Commons)

2. Guilford, CT

With a population of just over 22,000, this rural town near the seacoast offers breathtaking views of mountains and water. Guilford is accessible from Route 1 and Connecticut Route 77, making it possible for you to live here and commute to one of the neighborhood towns for work. Home might be a house (150K and up), apartment (an average $2K/ month), or a townhouse ($1400 and up). Don’t forget to visit one of the many historical landmarks. Check out the Mattaesett Trail, Dudley Farm, Henry Whitfield State Museum, Hayland House, or spend a family day a the Madison Green Historic District. 

Guilford, Connecticut (Photo by Doug Kerr | Flickr)

3. Middlebury, CT 

If you love small-town living with a friendly community, then Middlebury, CT might be the best place to live. More than 27% of its 8,500 total population is between the ages of 35 and 54, and 20% are 65 and older. The town is a great place to raise little ones; more than 67% of its small population is families. Spend a relaxing day at Lake Dunmore fishing or enjoying the sunset with a significant other. Your kids will enjoy visiting the Quassy Amusement & Waterpark in town when you can’t get time off work for an extended vacation away from home.

Middlebury, Connecticut (Photo by Jerry Dougherty | Wikimedia Commons)

4. Downtown in New Haven, CT

If you are planning to move into your first place or have just landed a great job in or around New Haven’s Downtown area, this might be the place for affordable living and a city feel. The urban area of New Haven has approximately 10,500 people, and most of them choose to rent (about $1,467 as a median rent). There is plenty to do at night if you enjoy the nightlife. Check out the Hobby Center that hosts live performances and the Toyota Center for sports and music events. The area also has plenty of dining options, from sushi to affordable vegan restaurants. 

Downtown, New Haven, Connecticut (Photo by Roman Eugeniusz | Wikimedia Commons)

5. Dwight in New Haven, CT

If you are a student or young professional, you will love the urban feel and affordability of this small town of fewer than 6,000 people. Most of the population rents houses or apartments. Since the rent is on the pricier side, $2K a month, buying a home (median home price is $115 K), and sharing it might be a better option for you, especially if you have children or work around the area. There is plenty to do when you are not working or studying, like hiking or Backcountry Tours. 

Dwight, New Haven, Connecticut (Photo by Sage Ross | Wikimedia Commons)