What Does It Really Cost to Live in Central Connecticut?
- davidconstantjr
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
When people think about moving to Central Connecticut, one of the first questions I hear is: “How does the cost of living compare to places like Boston, New York, or Fairfield County?”
It’s a fair question — especially if you’re coming from a bigger metro area where every dollar feels stretched thin. So let’s walk through the numbers and see what life looks like when you put Central CT side-by-side with our more expensive neighbors.
Starting Point: Central CT in 2025
Connecticut overall is not considered “cheap.” Our cost of living runs about 13% higher than the U.S. average, and housing is roughly 19% higher. But what’s important is where in Connecticut you live.
Here in Hartford County — towns like West Hartford, Glastonbury, Avon, and Simsbury — the story is different. Homes are more affordable than in the Fairfield/NYC corridor, and your dollar goes much further than in Boston or New York City.
Central CT vs. Boston: A Tale of Two Housing Markets
If you’ve ever looked at real estate in Boston, you know the sticker shock. According to Salary.com, you’d need to earn about 26% more in Boston to maintain the same standard of living you’d have in Hartford.
The biggest reason? Housing.
In Boston, median home prices are more than 260% higher than Hartford.
A condo that might run you $700,000 in Boston could translate to a full-sized single-family home in Glastonbury or West Hartford — with a yard, garage, and plenty of living space.
The trade-off is clear: Boston gives you world-class amenities and walkability, but Central CT gives you room to breathe, grow, and actually park your car in a driveway.
Central CT vs. NYC, Westchester & Fairfield
Now let’s head south. The NYC vs. Connecticut debate is long-running, and for good reason.
In New York City, $550K might get you a studio or tiny one-bedroom, with HOA fees climbing well over $1,000 a month.
In Westchester County, home prices and property taxes can make living costs even steeper than in Connecticut.
And in Fairfield County, which borders NYC, the housing price index is the highest in the state.
By contrast, in Central Connecticut, $550K is right around the median home price in towns like Glastonbury and West Hartford — and that buys you a 3–4 bedroom home, 2+ baths, a yard, and often a finished basement.
The Avant Garde Moving guide put it well: while Connecticut has higher property taxes than New York in some areas, your overall cost of living — especially housing — is significantly lower once you leave Fairfield and head toward the Hartford suburbs.
Why Families Choose Central CT
For many relocating families, the decision isn’t just about saving money — it’s about what that money gets you.
More space: 2,200–2,600 sq ft homes are the norm at the $500–$600K price point.
Community: Walkable centers in towns like West Hartford, vibrant local events, and family-friendly amenities.
Schools: Public schools in Glastonbury, Avon, and Simsbury consistently rank among the state’s best.
Balance: You can still reach NYC or Boston within 2–3 hours, but you come home to quieter neighborhoods, less traffic, and lower everyday costs.
It’s not just affordability — it’s value for lifestyle.
The Bottom Line
So, what does this all mean?
Compared to Boston, Central CT is dramatically more affordable — especially when it comes to buying a home.
Compared to NYC, Westchester, and Fairfield County, you’ll find that Central CT offers more space, less stress, and a stronger balance between cost and quality of life.
And compared to the national average, we’re a little higher — but the trade-offs (schools, community, location) are often worth it.
If you’re weighing a move, the numbers show that Central CT is a sweet spot: close enough to major cities, but with housing and lifestyle costs that won’t break the bank.
📲 Thinking about relocating? Let’s talk through your options. I’ll show you exactly what your budget can buy in West Hartford, Glastonbury, and beyond — and help you decide if Central Connecticut is the right fit. Call/text me at (860) 266-0808 or email davidconstantrealestate@gmail.com.
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