Finding an affordable place to live in Connecticut can be a challenge. Despite its reputation for high living costs, some cities offer affordable rents and a good quality of life. Here, we dive into nine of the cheapest places to live in Connecticut, highlighting what makes them affordable and the major employers and attractions that make each city such delightful places to call home.
1. Meriden
Average rent: $1,183
Meriden stands out as one of the cheapest places to live in Connecticut. With an average rent of $1,183. You should expect to pay around $1,350 for a studio, $1,000 for a one-bedroom apartment, and $1,200 for a two-bedroom.
MidState Medical Center is one of the largest employers in Meriden. Residents can explore Hubbard Park, famous for its hiking trails and beautiful Castle Craig Tower. The Meriden Green is a lovely spot for picnics and laid-back afternoons, making it a delightful place to call home.
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2. Waterbury
Average rent: $1,200
Waterbury has an average rent of $1,200, making it another affordable city in Connecticut. Studio apartments average $1,200, one-bedroom apartments are around $1,000, and two-bedroom apartments will run you $1,400.
In Waterbury, a couple of the larger employers are St. Mary’s Hospital and the Waterbury Public Schools. The city is full of affordable attractions, including the Mattatuck Museum, which offers a glimpse into local history and art. For outdoor enthusiasts, Fulton Park provides beautiful gardens, walking trails, and sports facilities, perfect for a day out without spending much.
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3. East Hartford
Average rent: $1,283
With an average rent of $1,283, East Hartford is a great choice for those seeking affordability. Studio apartments average $1,250, one-bedroom apartments are $1,200, and two-bedroom apartments are $1,400.
Major employers in East Hartford include Pratt & Whitney and Goodwin University, offering plenty of job opportunities in the area as well as a cool college town vibe. A popular spot for locals is the nearby Rentschler Field, which hosts concerts and sporting events throughout the year.
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4. Hartford
Average rent: $1,342
Hartford’s average rent of $1,342 makes it an affordable option in Connecticut. The city provides a wide range of rental choices, with studio apartments in Hartford at $1,100, one-bedroom apartments at $1,325, and two-bedroom apartments at $1,600.
Hartford is home to several major employers, like Aetna and The Hartford, which provide quality jobs to the community. The city has its fair share of cultural attractions, including the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art and the Connecticut Science Center.
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5. Bristol
Average rent: $1,384
With an average rent of $1,384, Bristol is another affordable city in Connecticut. The city offers a variety of rental properties, with one-bedroom apartments at $1,295 and two-bedroom apartments at around $1,400.
Bristol is known for being the home of ESPN, one of the city’s largest employers. Additionally, Bristol Hospital provides numerous healthcare jobs. For those looking for entertainment, the New England Carousel Museum and the American Clock & Watch Museum house collections you won’t find anywhere else.
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6. West Haven
Average rent: $1,398
West Haven’s average rent of $1,398 places it among the affordable cities in Connecticut. Studio apartments average $1,095, one-bedroom apartments are $1,250, and two-bedroom apartments are $1,850.
The University of New Haven and Yale University’s West Campus are major employers in West Haven, providing ample job opportunities. On a nice day, you’ll find locals enjoying the West Haven Boardwalk, which offers stunning views of Long Island Sound and is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Sandy Point Bird Sanctuary is another local gem, perfect for bird watching and nature walks without any entry fees.
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7. New Britain
Average rent: $1,595
With an average rent of $1,595, New Britain is still a budget-friendly option in the state. Studio apartments average $1,503, one-bedroom apartments are $1,608, and two-bedroom apartments are $1,675.
Major employers in New Britain include Stanley Black & Decker and Central Connecticut State University. The city boasts several attractions like the New Britain Museum of American Art, which offers free admission on certain days.
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8. Bridgeport
Average rent: $1,725
Bridgeport’s average rent of $1,725 makes it one of the pricier options on this list but still affordable compared to the state median. Studio apartments in Bridgeport average $1,350, one-bedroom apartments are $2,225, and two-bedroom apartments are $1,600.
Bridgeport is home to several major employers, including Bridgeport Hospital and the University of Bridgeport. For a fun day out, residents can visit the Beardsley Zoo, Connecticut’s only zoo, which offers affordable entry fees. Seaside Park provides a vast green space with beaches, picnic areas, and sports fields, perfect for free or low-cost days with family and friends.
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9. Hamden
Average rent: $1,812
Hamden’s average rent of $1,812 positions it below the state median, making it a viable option for renters seeking affordability. Studio apartments average $1,470, one-bedroom apartments are $1,610, and two-bedroom apartments are $2,355.
Hamden is home to several key employers, such as Quinnipiac University and the Hamden Public Schools, providing diverse job opportunities. For outdoorsy types, Sleeping Giant State Park has extensive hiking trails and stunning views, perfect for a day out without spending much.
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Methodology
All cities must have over 50,000 residents per the US Census and have an average rent price under the median rent price for the state – which is $1,816 per month according to Redfin data. Average rental data from Rent.com July 2024.
