Cost of Living in Connecticut [2025]

Connecticut combines classic New England charm with the convenience of proximity to major metropolitan areas, such as New York City and Boston. With its picturesque small towns, strong public schools, coastal attractions, and a growing job market in healthcare, finance, and advanced manufacturing, the state has a lot to offer.

That said, the cost of living here is higher than the national average—about 11.8% more overall. While housing prices remain below those in larger cities, taxes, utilities, and child care can add up quickly. Still, many areas in the state, such as New Haven or Bristol, offer more affordable housing options without sacrificing access to desirable amenities. If you're weighing your options, Connecticut’s diversity in housing, location, and lifestyle makes it worth a closer look.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything from rent and transportation to groceries and healthcare. Whether you're planning a move or just want to understand what your budget can get you, read on for a detailed look at the cost of living in Connecticut.

Cost of Living in Connecticut

What Is the Cost of Living in Connecticut?

Connecticut is one of the more expensive states in the U.S., with a cost of living index of 111.8, indicating that expenses are approximately 11.8% higher than the national average. Housing costs contribute significantly to this figure, with the median home value in the state at $343,200. Utilities and transportation also add to the higher living costs, with indices of 118.5 and 112.4, respectively. However, the cost of living in Connecticut varies across different areas.

Where Is the Cost of Living Highest in Connecticut?

Greenwich stands out as the most expensive place to live in the state, with a cost of living index of 138.6, which is approximately 38.6% higher than the national average and 24% higher than the Connecticut average. This elevated cost is largely driven by housing, where the median home value is $1,486,100, significantly surpassing both the state and national medians.

Where Is the Cost of Living Most Affordable in Connecticut?

Bristol is one of the most affordable cities in the state, with a cost of living index of 104.8. This affordability is largely driven by housing costs; the median home value in Bristol is $252,300, which is about 39% less than the national median of $414,500 and 26% below the state median of $343,200. For those seeking a more budget-friendly lifestyle in Connecticut, Bristol offers a balance of lower housing expenses while still providing access to the amenities and services typical of the region.

How Much Is Rent in Connecticut?

Rent prices in Connecticut vary widely depending on the city, with more affordable options in mid-sized towns and significantly higher costs in cities closer to major city centers. New Haven has the lowest median rents among the cities listed, with one-bedroom units averaging $1,040 and two-bedroom units at $1,319. Middletown and Glastonbury Center have slightly higher rents, with two-bedroom units going for $1,497 and $1,890, respectively.

On the higher end of the spectrum, the median rent in Stamford is $1,931 for a one-bedroom apartment and $2,348 for a two-bedroom unit—well above the rest. West Hartford sits somewhere in the middle, with one-bedrooms at $1,360 and two-bedrooms at $1,762. These trends reflect broader regional patterns: Areas with greater proximity to major job markets or more developed infrastructure tend to see higher rental costs, while cities further inland or with fewer economic hubs offer more budget-friendly options.

How Much Is a One-Bedroom Apartment in Connecticut?

The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Connecticut varies by city, ranging from $1,040 in New Haven to $1,931 in Stamford. While New Haven offers one of the most affordable options below the U.S. median of $1,234, cities like Stamford have significantly higher prices due to location and demand. Rent rates can fluctuate based on neighborhood, amenities, and proximity to urban centers.

How Much Is a Two-Bedroom Apartment in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, the median rent for a two-bedroom apartment varies by city, with New Haven offering the most affordable option at $1,319, which is below the national median of $1,401. Middletown and West Hartford present mid-range options, with median rents of $1,497 and $1,762, respectively. On the higher end, Glastonbury Center's median rent is $1,890, while Stamford tops the list at $2,348.

How Much Is Housing in Connecticut?

Connecticut’s median home price is $343,200, a result of a mix of affordable and high-end housing across the state. Home values vary widely by location—for example, you’ll find more budget-friendly options in New Haven ($249,000) and Middletown ($279,500), while areas like West Hartford ($391,200) and Glastonbury Center ($367,000) trend higher. Stamford stands out as one of the most expensive markets, with a median price of $614,300.

What Salary Do I Need to Live in Connecticut?

To live comfortably in Connecticut, it helps to understand how your salary aligns with the state’s cost of living. The median household income in Connecticut is $93,760, which is higher than the national median of $78,538. According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single adult in the state needs to earn at least $52,581 per year (or $25.28 per hour) to cover basic expenses. For a family of four, that number increases significantly to $145,204 annually (or $34.90 per hour), reflecting the added costs of child care, housing, and healthcare.

When budgeting for housing, a standard guideline is the 30% rule, meaning no more than 30% of your gross income should go toward rent. With the median rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Connecticut at $1,401 per month, you’d need to earn about $4,670 monthly, or $56,040 per year, to afford it comfortably. This breaks down to an hourly wage of around $26.94 based on a 40-hour workweek.

If you're unsure what fits your budget, use our rent calculator to estimate how much rent you can afford based on your income. It's a helpful tool to stay within budget while exploring housing options that suit your lifestyle.

How Much Is Transportation in Connecticut?

Transportation in Connecticut is a significant expense, with annual costs averaging $10,168 for a single adult and $17,056 for a family of four. These figures reflect the state's car-centric culture, where private vehicle ownership is common due to limited public transit options.

In Hartford, for instance, the Walk Score is 67, indicating that while some errands may be done on foot, the city's public transportation and biking infrastructure are less robust, with Transit and Bike Scores of 53 and 54, respectively. These scores suggest that, although there are some public transit options and bike paths, they may not be sufficient to meet the needs of all residents. Consequently, many residents rely on personal vehicles, which contributes to higher transportation costs and traffic congestion.

How Much Are Groceries in Connecticut?

Groceries in Connecticut are an important part of living expenses, with annual costs estimated at $4,766 for a single adult and $13,969 for a family of four, according to the MIT Living Wage Calculator. In Hartford, everyday food items like a gallon of milk average around $4.81, and chicken fillets cost approximately $5.94 per pound. Dining out can also impact your budget; a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant typically costs about $80.

Connecticut's culinary scene features popular local dishes such as New Haven-style pizza and lobster rolls, which, while delicious, can add to monthly food expenses if indulged in frequently. Balancing home-cooked meals with occasional dining out can help manage grocery and dining costs effectively.

How Much Is Child Care in Connecticut?

Child care in Connecticut is among the most expensive in the country, with annual costs averaging $20,183 for one child and $35,743 for two children. These figures are significantly higher than the national average of $11,582 per year. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that child care expenses should not exceed 7% of a family's annual income, yet many families in Connecticut find themselves allocating a much larger portion of their earnings to cover these costs.

How Much Is Healthcare in Connecticut?

Healthcare in Connecticut is a large expense, with annual costs estimated at $3,973 for a single adult and $11,474 for a family of four, according to the MIT Living Wage Calculator.

The state boasts a robust healthcare infrastructure, comprising 27 acute care hospitals that are regulated by both state and federal agencies. However, the consolidation of hospitals into large health systems has led to increased prices without corresponding improvements in quality and has resulted in the closure of services in more rural areas.

Despite these challenges, Connecticut ranks highly in terms of healthcare accessibility, boasting a strong network of qualified providers and a high rate of insured residents. Nevertheless, affordability remains a concern, as nearly half of Connecticut residents have reported delaying or foregoing healthcare due to cost.

How Much Are Utilities in Connecticut?

Utilities in Hartford average around $118.73 per month for basic services—electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage—for a 915-square-foot apartment. Additionally, expect to pay approximately $64.17 for internet and $41.88 for a mobile phone plan that includes calls and at least 10 GB of data.

Due to the state's four-season climate, residents often face fluctuating utility bills throughout the year, with heating costs rising in the cold winters and air conditioning adding to summer expenses. If you're planning a move to Connecticut, it may be wise to budget a bit more during peak seasons to account for these shifts in usage.

Connecticut Fitness and Entertainment

Hartford offers a variety of fitness and entertainment options to suit different lifestyles and budgets. A monthly membership at a fitness club averages $49.67, providing access to various exercise facilities. For movie enthusiasts, a ticket to see an international release at a local cinema costs around $13.​

Hartford also boasts numerous free attractions. Visitors can explore the historic Connecticut State Capitol, stroll through the scenic Bushnell Park, or admire the architecture of the Cathedral of St. Joseph. For those interested in cultural experiences, the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History provides insights into the state's heritage. Additionally, the Hartford Public Library offers free museum passes, granting access to various local attractions.

How Much Are Taxes in Connecticut?

Connecticut's tax landscape significantly influences its overall cost of living. The state employs a progressive individual income tax system with seven brackets, ranging from 2.00% to a top marginal rate of 6.99% for high earners. Notably, Connecticut's tax code includes a recapture provision that effectively taxes all income at the taxpayer's highest marginal rate, making the system more complex and less neutral than those of other states.

In addition to income taxes, Connecticut imposes a 1.78% effective property tax rate on owner-occupied housing, one of the highest in the nation. These factors contribute to Connecticut's low ranking in tax competitiveness but can significantly impact the overall cost of living for residents.

Connecticut Job Market

Connecticut’s job market has experienced significant growth over the last few years, driven by expansion in healthcare, insurance, and advanced manufacturing. In 2024, the state added 16,000 jobs, bringing total employment to a record high of 1.7 million. However, this job growth is expected to slow in 2025, with only about 5,000 new positions projected—roughly half of what’s typical in a healthy year. Despite the slowdown, the unemployment rate remains low at 3.4%, pointing to a tight labor market and high employer demand.

Healthcare and social assistance saw the biggest gains last year and continue to offer strong career opportunities. Hartford’s financial sector is also rebounding, with a 2.5% bump in jobs, while fields like aerospace, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing remain vital to the state’s economy. Still, nearly 80,000 jobs remain unfilled as the state grapples with an aging workforce and a high cost of living, which may deter younger talent from staying. Solving these workforce challenges is key to sustaining economic momentum in the years ahead.

Find Your Next Apartment in Connecticut

Connecticut is a blend of scenic New England charm, thriving job opportunities, and diverse communities ranging from bustling cities like Stamford and Hartford to quieter towns like Glastonbury Center. Whether you're looking for a vibrant downtown, proximity to nature, or top-rated schools, there's a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle and budget. With careful planning, you can find an apartment that meets your needs, whether you’re relocating from out of state or just across town.

Ready to find your next home? Start your Connecticut apartment search with Apartment List. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.

FAQs: Cost of Living in Connecticut

How expensive is an apartment in Connecticut?

The cost of renting an apartment in Connecticut depends heavily on location. Across the cities analyzed, one-bedroom apartments range from a median of $1,040 in New Haven to $1,931 in Stamford. Mid-sized cities like Middletown, Glastonbury Center, and West Hartford offer a middle ground, with one-bedroom rents averaging between $1,283 and $1,360 and two-bedroom apartments ranging from $1,497 to $1,890.

What is the cheapest rent in Connecticut?

The cheapest rent in Connecticut can be found in New Haven, where the median cost for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,040 per month.

Is Connecticut a good place to live?

Connecticut is made up of energetic cities, charming small towns, and scenic coastal communities, making it an attractive place to live for many. The state boasts highly ranked schools, low crime rates, and numerous outdoor recreation opportunities, all of which contribute to a high quality of life. Its proximity to major metropolitan areas like New York City and Boston provides residents with access to a wide range of cultural and economic opportunities while allowing them to enjoy the benefits of a more relaxed, suburban lifestyle.

What is the population of Connecticut?

Connecticut is home to approximately 3,617,176 people, making it one of the more densely populated states in the U.S.

What is the minimum wage in Connecticut?

​As of January 1, 2025, Connecticut's minimum wage stands at $16.35 per hour. This rate places Connecticut among the states with the highest minimum wages in the nation.