Connecticut offers a perfect blend of New England charm, coastal beauty, and cultural richness that makes it an attractive retirement destination. In this guide, I’ve evaluated 25 of the state’s most appealing towns for retirees based on seven essential criteria that can make or break my retirement experience.
My comprehensive assessment examines each town’s **Cost of Buying a Home **(Zillow Home Value Index), which directly impacts mortgage affordability and my long-term financial planning. I also evaluate Healthcare Access, a critical consideration as I age, along with Weather patterns that affect my daily comfort and seasonal activities.
For a fulfilling retirement, I’ve analyzed each town’s Cultural Activities and Outdoor Activities, ensuring communities offer engaging options for both my mind and body. Safety remains paramount, so I’ve included Crime Rate assessments, and since I travel frequently and expect visitors, I’ve considered Airport Proximity as my final criterion.
I’ve presented the towns in alphabetical order for easy reference, allowing me to quickly find specific communities of interest. It’s important to note that all grades I’ve assigned (from A+ to D-) are subjective and reflect my analysis based on comparing these towns to one another within Connecticut, not against national benchmarks. This approach provides me a more meaningful comparison as I’m specifically considering Connecticut for my retirement years.
Whether I’m seeking waterfront living along the Long Island Sound, a walkable town center with vibrant cultural offerings, or peaceful rural settings with strong community ties, Connecticut offers diverse options for homeowners in their retirement years. My town-by-town breakdown will help me identify which communities might best match my retirement dreams and practical needs.
Here’s the list.
1. Avon
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: A-
Avon offers excellent healthcare facilities, making it particularly attractive for retirees who prioritize medical access. The median home price of $529,676 reflects the town’s desirability, though homebuyers might find that getting a home loan requires careful financial planning. The Farmington Valley area provides a blend of suburban comfort with upscale amenities that many retirees appreciate.
Cultural enthusiasts will enjoy the Avon Free Public Library and the nearby Farmington Valley Arts Center, while outdoor lovers can explore the scenic Farmington River Trail. Hartford Hospital is just a 20-minute drive away, and Bradley International Airport can be reached in approximately 25 minutes, offering convenient travel options for visiting family or vacation getaways.
Three main activities:
- Golfing at Blue Fox Run Golf Course
- Shopping at Avon Marketplace
- Hiking at Talcott Mountain State Park
2. Branford
- Cost of Buying a Home: C
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B
Branford shines with its beautiful coastal location that offers stunning shoreline views and recreational opportunities. The median home price of $424,580 may stretch some retirement budgets, but the coastal lifestyle adds significant value. The town’s historic district features well-preserved architecture and a charming downtown that caters to homeowners looking for both convenience and character.
Residents enjoy easy access to shopping along Main Street and the Branford Festival in June. Yale New Haven Hospital is just 15 minutes away, while Tweed New Haven Airport is a convenient 10-minute drive, and larger Bradley International Airport can be reached in about an hour. The town’s shoreline location means milder winters compared to inland communities.
Three main activities:
- Kayaking in Branford Harbor and the Thimble Islands
- Exploring Stony Creek Quarry Preserve
- Attending performances at the Branford Folk Music Society
3. Chester
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: B-
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: C+
Chester captivates retirees with its quintessential New England charm and vibrant arts community. The median home price of $463,089 offers reasonable value considering the town’s character and amenities, though mortgage affordability may be a consideration for some retirees on fixed incomes. The town’s small size creates a tight-knit community where neighbors know one another.
The town is known for its art galleries, studios, and the Chester Sunday Market. Middlesex Hospital is about 20 minutes away in Middletown, while Bradley International Airport is approximately a 50-minute drive. Chester’s location along the Connecticut River provides scenic beauty throughout the seasons, with particularly stunning fall foliage.
Three main activities:
- Exploring the downtown art galleries during “First Fridays”
- Dining at acclaimed local restaurants
- Boating on the Connecticut River
4. Essex
- Cost of Buying a Home: C-
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: C
Essex delights retirees with its picture-perfect New England waterfront setting and marina culture. The median home price of $569,397 reflects its desirability, making it one of the pricier options where obtaining a mortgage could be expensive for some retirees. The historic downtown features Federal and Colonial architecture that gives the town its distinctive character and appeal.
Cultural activities abound with the Essex Steam Train, Connecticut River Museum, and annual Burning of the Ships Parade. Middlesex Hospital Shoreline Medical Center is about 15 minutes away, while Bradley International Airport requires a 50-minute drive. The town’s location on the Connecticut River offers beautiful water views and a slightly moderated climate compared to inland locations.
Three main activities:
- Sailing on the Connecticut River
- Attending the Essex Winter Series concerts
- Exploring the Ivoryton Playhouse for theatrical performances
5. Glastonbury
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: A-
Glastonbury combines suburban convenience with rural charm, offering an excellent balance for active retirees. The median home price of $503,509 provides relatively good value for the Hartford region, though homeownership costs should be factored into retirement planning. The town features an excellent mix of historical areas and newer developments to suit various preferences.
The town boasts a vibrant center with shops and restaurants, plus the popular Riverfront Park along the Connecticut River. Hartford Hospital is just 15 minutes away, and Bradley International Airport can be reached in about 30 minutes. Local farms offer fresh produce, and the town’s Apple Harvest Festival is a major annual attraction.
Three main activities:
- Walking the trails at Cotton Hollow Preserve
- Shopping at the historic Glastonbury Center
- Attending summer concerts at Riverfront Park
6. Guilford
- Cost of Buying a Home: C
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: B
Guilford charms retirees with its well-preserved historic green and coastal New England character. The median home price of $581,204 reflects the town’s high desirability, with mortgage affordability being a significant consideration for budget-conscious retirees. The town’s historic district is one of the largest in New England, featuring homes dating back to the 17th century.
Cultural highlights include the Guilford Art Center, Henry Whitfield State Museum (Connecticut’s oldest house), and numerous galleries. Yale New Haven Hospital is about 20 minutes away, and Tweed New Haven Airport is just 15 minutes from town. The shoreline location provides milder winters than inland areas and plenty of waterfront recreation opportunities.
Three main activities:
- Walking the Guilford Green and browsing local shops
- Beach days at Jacobs Beach or Lake Quonnipaug
- Hiking at Westwoods Trail System or East River Preserve
7. Litchfield
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: B-
- Weather: B-
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: C+
Litchfield captivates with its quintessential New England village atmosphere and surrounding natural beauty. The median home price of $494,961 offers good value for such a picturesque location, making it reasonably attainable for retirees seeking mortgage affordability in a charming setting. The town’s historic district features immaculately preserved Colonial-era homes along tree-lined streets.
Cultural enthusiasts appreciate the Litchfield History Museum and the nearby White Memorial Conservation Center. Charlotte Hungerford Hospital is about 20 minutes away in Torrington, while Bradley International Airport requires a 50-minute drive. The Litchfield Hills region offers some of Connecticut’s most dramatic scenery, particularly spectacular during fall foliage season.
Three main activities:
- Touring the historic district and town green
- Hiking in White Memorial Conservation Center
- Wine tasting at local vineyards
8. Madison
- Cost of Buying a Home: D
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: B-
Madison attracts retirees with its beautiful beaches and upscale coastal community atmosphere. The median home price of $652,285 makes it one of the pricier options in the state, where having to get a mortgage could be expensive for many retirees. The historic downtown features well-preserved colonial architecture and upscale boutiques that contribute to the town’s distinctive character.
Cultural highlights include the renowned R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison Arts Barn, and seasonal events on the town green. Yale New Haven Hospital is about 25 minutes away, while Tweed New Haven Airport is a 20-minute drive. The shoreline location moderates winter temperatures and provides immediate access to Long Island Sound for water activities.
Three main activities:
- Beach days at Hammonasset Beach State Park
- Attending author events at R.J. Julia Booksellers
- Hiking the Rockland Preserve trails
9. Middletown
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: A
- Outdoor Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: B+
Middletown offers an excellent balance of affordability and amenities, with Wesleyan University adding cultural vitality. The median home price of $332,532 provides exceptional value for Connecticut, with excellent mortgage affordability that stretches retirement dollars further. The revitalized Main Street features diverse dining options and small businesses in historic buildings.
Cultural activities abound thanks to Wesleyan University’s influence, including the Center for the Arts and the annual Middletown Music Festival. Middlesex Hospital is located right in town, while Bradley International Airport is about 40 minutes away. The Connecticut River waterfront provides scenic walking paths and Harbor Park offers outdoor recreation options.
Three main activities:
- Exploring the diverse dining scene on Main Street
- Attending performances at Wesleyan’s Center for the Arts
- Walking or cycling along the Mattabesett Blue Trail System
10. Mystic
- Cost of Buying a Home: C
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: A-
- Cultural Activities: A
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: C+
Mystic delights retirees with its maritime heritage and charming seaport village atmosphere. The median home price in the area of approximately $425,000 reflects its popularity as both a tourist destination and residential community. While technically part of Groton and Stonington, Mystic has its own distinct character, with historic homes lining the waterfront and nautical ambiance throughout the village.
Cultural highlights include the renowned Mystic Seaport Museum, Mystic Aquarium, and a thriving downtown shopping district. Lawrence + Memorial Hospital is about 15 minutes away, while T.F. Green Airport in Providence is approximately 45 minutes by car. The coastal location provides moderate temperatures year-round compared to inland communities.
Three main activities:
- Exploring the historic Mystic Seaport Museum
- Dining and shopping in downtown Mystic
- Sailing or cruising on the Mystic River
11. New Canaan
- Cost of Buying a Home: D-
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A+
- Airport Proximity: B+
New Canaan offers luxury living in a sophisticated community known for its architectural gems and manicured landscapes. The median home price of $1,907,561 makes it one of Connecticut’s most expensive towns, where getting a home loan requires substantial resources. This affluent community features stunning modern homes including the famous Glass House by Philip Johnson, alongside traditional New England architecture.
Cultural amenities include the Philip Johnson Glass House, Silvermine Arts Center, and a vibrant downtown with upscale shopping and dining. Stamford Hospital is just 15 minutes away, and Westchester County Airport can be reached in 20 minutes. The town’s location in lower Fairfield County provides relatively mild winters for Connecticut, with beautiful parks and nature preserves throughout.
Three main activities:
- Touring architectural landmarks like the Philip Johnson Glass House
- Walking the trails at Waveny Park
- Shopping and dining in the charming downtown village
12. Old Lyme
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: C+
Old Lyme charms with its artistic heritage as the birthplace of American Impressionism and beautiful coastal setting. The median home price of $575,325 provides reasonable value for a shoreline community with such historical significance. The town features well-preserved Colonial and Federal architecture, particularly along Lyme Street, creating a quintessential New England atmosphere.
Cultural highlights include the Florence Griswold Museum, Lyme Art Association, and the renowned Lyme Academy of Fine Arts. Lawrence + Memorial Hospital is about 20 minutes away, while T.F. Green Airport in Providence can be reached in an hour. The town borders the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound, providing scenic water views and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Three main activities:
- Visiting the Florence Griswold Museum and its historic gardens
- Beach days at Sound View Beach
- Hiking in the Nature Conservancy’s Lay Preserve
13. Old Saybrook
- Cost of Buying a Home: C
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: C+
Old Saybrook offers a perfect coastal retirement with its charming Main Street and beautiful beaches. The median home price of $618,763 reflects its desirability as a shoreline community, with homeowners enjoying excellent access to both Long Island Sound and the Connecticut River. The historic downtown features shops and restaurants housed in buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
Cultural offerings include the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center (The Kate), seasonal concerts, and numerous art galleries. Middlesex Hospital Shoreline Medical Center is conveniently located in town, while Bradley International Airport is about an hour’s drive away. The peninsula location provides beautiful water views and a slightly moderated climate compared to inland locations.
Three main activities:
- Attending performances at the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center
- Walking the scenic shoreline at Harvey’s Beach
- Boating and fishing at the mouth of the Connecticut River
14. Ridgefield
- Cost of Buying a Home: D
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: A+
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A+
- Airport Proximity: B
Ridgefield boasts an exceptional cultural scene and picturesque New England village atmosphere. The median home price of $904,808 makes it one of the pricier options in the state, where getting a home loan could be expensive for many retirees. The historic Main Street features beautifully preserved 18th and 19th-century homes and buildings that give the town its distinctive character.
Cultural amenities abound with the renowned Ridgefield Playhouse, ACT of Connecticut theater, and The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum. Danbury Hospital is just 15 minutes away, and Westchester County Airport can be reached in about 30 minutes. The town’s location in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains provides scenic beauty throughout the seasons.
Three main activities:
- Attending performances at the Ridgefield Playhouse
- Exploring the trails at Seth Low Pierrepont State Park
- Visiting The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum
15. Simsbury
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: A-
Simsbury offers a perfect blend of small-town charm with excellent amenities and beautiful natural surroundings. The median home price of $485,072 represents good value for the Farmington Valley region, with mortgage affordability that many retirees find manageable. The town features historic buildings, including some dating back to the 18th century, creating a quintessential New England atmosphere.
Cultural highlights include Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center, the International Skating Center, and the Pinchot Sycamore (Connecticut’s largest tree). Hartford Hospital is about 25 minutes away, while Bradley International Airport can be reached in just 20 minutes. The town’s location along the Farmington River provides scenic beauty and recreational opportunities throughout the year.
Three main activities:
- Cycling on the Farmington Valley Trail
- Wine tasting at Simsbury Vineyards
- Attending summer concerts at Simsbury Meadows
16. Southbury
- Cost of Buying a Home: B-
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: C+
Southbury stands out for its established retirement community at Heritage Village and scenic rural setting. The median home price of $434,093 offers good value, with excellent mortgage affordability compared to many other desirable Connecticut towns. The town features a mix of rural landscapes, traditional neighborhoods, and the large Heritage Village complex specifically designed for active adults 55+.
Cultural opportunities include the Southbury Public Library, Southbury Training School Historic District, and nearby Kettletown State Park. Waterbury Hospital is about 20 minutes away, while Bradley International Airport is approximately an hour’s drive. The town’s rolling hills and numerous parks provide abundant natural beauty and outdoor recreation options.
Three main activities:
- Participating in activities at Heritage Village (if residing there)
- Exploring Kettletown State Park overlooking Lake Zoar
- Bird watching at Bent of the River Audubon Center
17. Stonington
- Cost of Buying a Home: C-
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: A-
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: C
Stonington Borough captivates with its historic seaport charm and peninsula setting surrounded by water on three sides. The median home price of $559,249 reflects its desirability, with many historic homes in the Borough commanding premium prices. The town features remarkably preserved Colonial and Federal architecture, creating one of New England’s most picturesque coastal villages.
Cultural attractions include the Stonington Historical Society, numerous art galleries, and the annual Village Fair. Lawrence + Memorial Hospital is about 20 minutes away, while T.F. Green Airport in Providence is approximately 45 minutes by car. The coastal location provides relatively mild temperatures year-round compared to inland communities.
Three main activities:
- Walking the historic streets of Stonington Borough
- Visiting DuBois Beach with views of three states
- Dining at seafood restaurants along Water Street
18. Suffield
- Cost of Buying a Home: B
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B-
- Cultural Activities: B
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: A
Suffield appeals to retirees with its rural charm, agricultural heritage, and excellent transportation access. The median home price of $447,622 represents good value for the region, with strong mortgage affordability that appeals to many retirees. The town’s historic district features well-preserved Colonial-era homes and a classic New England town green.
Cultural offerings include the Phelps-Hatheway House & Garden, Kent Memorial Library, and seasonal farmers’ markets. Baystate Medical Center is about 20 minutes away in Springfield, Massachusetts, while Bradley International Airport is just 10 minutes from town, making this ideal for retirees who travel frequently. The town’s location along the Connecticut River provides scenic vistas and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Three main activities:
- Touring historic sites like the Phelps-Hatheway House
- Hiking at Sunrise Park
- Attending the Suffield on the Green festival
19. Tolland
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: B-
- Cultural Activities: B-
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: B+
Tolland offers a peaceful rural atmosphere with excellent public services and a strong sense of community. The median home price of $405,712 provides excellent value, with homeownership within reach for many retirees on fixed incomes. The town center features a historic district with well-preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings around a traditional New England green.
Cultural attractions include the Tolland Historical Society, local concerts on the green, and the Arts of Tolland gallery. Manchester Memorial Hospital is about 15 minutes away, while Bradley International Airport can be reached in approximately 30 minutes. The town’s numerous conservation areas and trails provide abundant opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
Three main activities:
- Exploring the Tolland Green Historic District
- Hiking at Crandall Park
- Attending the Tolland Agricultural Fair
20. West Hartford
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: A+
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: A
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: A-
West Hartford stands out for its walkable town center and excellent amenities that make car-free living possible for active retirees. The median home price of $451,157 represents fair value given the town’s amenities and popularity. The vibrant Blue Back Square and West Hartford Center feature upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options within walking distance of residential neighborhoods.
Cultural highlights include the Noah Webster House, the West Hartford Art League, and numerous events at the town green. Hartford Hospital and UConn Health are both within 15 minutes, while Bradley International Airport is approximately 25 minutes away. The town’s extensive park system includes the 700-acre Reservoir property with walking trails and scenic vistas.
Three main activities:
- Shopping and dining in Blue Back Square
- Walking or biking in Elizabeth Park’s renowned rose garden
- Attending concerts and festivals on the town green
21. Westport
- Cost of Buying a Home: D-
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: B+
Westport offers luxury coastal living with exceptional cultural amenities and a sophisticated atmosphere. The median home price of $1,704,116 makes it one of Connecticut’s most expensive communities, where having to get a home loan could be prohibitively expensive for many retirees. The town features stunning waterfront properties and elegant homes in various architectural styles.
Cultural attractions abound with the Westport Country Playhouse, Westport Arts Center, and the renowned Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts. Norwalk Hospital is about 15 minutes away, while Westchester County Airport can be reached in approximately 35 minutes. The town’s location on Long Island Sound provides beaches, boating opportunities, and relatively mild temperatures throughout the year.
Three main activities:
- Attending performances at the Westport Country Playhouse
- Relaxing at Compo Beach
- Shopping and dining in downtown Westport
22. Wethersfield
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: A-
Wethersfield attracts history enthusiasts with its exceptionally well-preserved historic district and New England charm. The median home price of $379,420 offers excellent value for the Greater Hartford region, with mortgage affordability that makes it accessible to many retirees. Historic Old Wethersfield features one of the largest historic districts in the state, with homes dating back to the 17th century.
Cultural highlights include the Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum, Wethersfield Museum, and the annual Wethersfield Weekend celebration. Hartford Hospital is about 10 minutes away, while Bradley International Airport can be reached in approximately 25 minutes. The town’s location along the Connecticut River provides scenic views and recreational opportunities at Wethersfield Cove.
Three main activities:
- Exploring Old Wethersfield’s historic district
- Walking the trails at Great Meadows
- Shopping for antiques along Main Street
23. Wilton
- Cost of Buying a Home: D-
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A+
- Airport Proximity: B
Wilton provides an upscale rural atmosphere with excellent amenities and a strong sense of community. The median home price of $1,132,485 reflects its desirability, making homeownership a significant investment for retirees. The town features winding country roads, historic stone walls, and architecturally significant homes set on spacious lots.
Cultural offerings include the Wilton Historical Society, Weir Farm National Historic Site, and the Wilton Playshop community theater. Norwalk Hospital is about 15 minutes away, while Westchester County Airport can be reached in approximately 30 minutes. The town’s extensive trail system, including the Norwalk River Valley Trail, provides excellent outdoor recreation options throughout the seasons.
Three main activities:
- Exploring Weir Farm National Historic Site
- Shopping and dining in Wilton Center
- Hiking on the town’s extensive trail network
24. Woodbridge
- Cost of Buying a Home: C-
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A+
- Airport Proximity: B
Woodbridge offers a semi-rural atmosphere with excellent proximity to New Haven’s cultural and medical facilities. The median home price of $618,991 represents fair value given its location and amenities. The town features winding roads, substantial homes on generous lots, and an abundance of natural beauty throughout its rolling terrain.
Cultural attractions include easy access to Yale University’s world-class museums and performances, the Woodbridge Town Library, and numerous community events. Yale New Haven Hospital is just 15 minutes away, while Tweed New Haven Airport can be reached in approximately 20 minutes. The town’s extensive trail system, including the Alice Newton Street Memorial Park and the Woodbridge Land Trust properties, provides excellent outdoor recreation.
Three main activities:
- Hiking at West Rock Ridge State Park
- Golfing at The Country Club of Woodbridge
- Visiting the Yale Peabody Museum nearby in New Haven
25. Woodbury
- Cost of Buying a Home: B-
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: B-
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: C
Woodbury charms with its reputation as the “Antiques Capital of Connecticut” and picturesque New England setting. The median home price of $498,438 offers good value for such a charming community. The town’s Main Street features historic homes and buildings housing numerous antique shops and galleries, creating a delightful atmosphere for leisurely strolls.
Cultural highlights include the Glebe House Museum, numerous art galleries, and the historic North Congregational Church. Waterbury Hospital is about 15 minutes away, while Bradley International Airport requires approximately a 60-minute drive. The town’s location in the Litchfield Hills provides beautiful scenery throughout the seasons, with spectacular fall foliage displays.
Three main activities:
- Antiquing along Main Street
- Hiking in Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust
- Visiting local farm stands and farmers markets
Sources:
- Zillow Home Value Index: https://www.zillow.com/research/data/
- Connecticut Housing Market: House Prices & Trends | Redfin https://www.redfin.com/state/Connecticut/housing-market
- Connecticut Housing Portal by CTData Collaborative https://housing.ctdata.org/
- U.S. Census Bureau: Connecticut QuickFacts https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/CT/PST045223
- Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development https://portal.ct.gov/DECD
- National Association of Realtors: Connecticut Market Trends https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/housing-statistics/state-and-local-housing-market-reports
- Hartford Courant: Connecticut Real Estate News https://www.courant.com/business/real-estate/
- Yale New Haven Health: Hospital and Healthcare Access in Connecticut https://www.ynhhs.org/
- Hartford Healthcare: Connecticut Healthcare Resources https://hartfordhealthcare.org/
- Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection: Parks & Outdoor Recreation https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP
- Connecticut Tourism Official Site https://www.ctvisit.com/
- University of Connecticut: Connecticut Economy and Demographics https://www.econ.uconn.edu/
- Connecticut Historical Society https://chs.org/
- New Haven Register: Local News and Housing Trends https://www.nhregister.com/
- The Day: Southeastern Connecticut News & Real Estate Trends https://www.theday.com/
- CT Mirror: Connecticut Economy and Housing Reports https://ctmirror.org/
Connecticut has some fantastic towns for retirees! Guilford’s historic charm, Litchfield’s scenic trails, and Madison’s culture are great picks. Plus, don’t overlook West Hartford and Newtown for their community vibes and peaceful living!
What activities do you think retirees enjoy most in those lovely towns?
Have you thought about West Hartford? It’s perfect for retirees with parks and arts galore!