West Hartford is an upper-middle-class suburb of Hartford, CT with a thriving job market and a lovely walkable town center.
Is West Hartford, CT a Good Place to Live?
West Hartford is consistently ranked the #1 best place to live in Connecticut. The high rankings reach across demographics and generations, extending from young professionals to families and even retirees.
The employment opportunities, notably in the insurance sector, make West Hartford a great launching pad for young professionals. For those working in Downtown Hartford, the commute can be as little as 10 minutes by car (typically around 20 minutes in rush hour traffic). There are also multiple public transportation options from West Hartford to Hartford, making it comfortable to commute without a vehicle.
Families, in particular, appreciate the low crime rates and impressive schools. And retirees enjoy an active senior community with multiple senior centers and several 55+ communities.
The downtown district is packed with charming eateries, eclectic boutiques, and relaxing day spas.
The Pros and Cons of Living in West Hartford, Connecticut
Here are the biggest advantages of living in West Hartford:
- High-quality education is available through the public school system, as well as a range of private school options.
- You’ll have access to a diverse range of dining and shopping options.
- With a more dense suburban design than some of the surrounding areas, West Hartford is more compact, which makes it more walkable.
- The town is carefully maintained, providing a clean, welcoming environment.
- Crime rates are exceptionally low and trending lower each year.
- The University of Hartford is located in West Hartford, and Uconn Hartford is an easy commute away.
- If you’re looking for nightlife, there are a few options in West Hartford. And, being so close to Hartford, you have many more options within reach.
- With golf courses, fitness centers, and trails, it’s easy to stay active here!
Before you move to West Hartford, you should also consider a few potential downsides:
- The cost of living is higher than average. However, this is offset by the higher-than-average household income.
- The weather can be a hurdle for people who don’t enjoy cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers.
What is There to Do in West Hartford, CT?
You’ll never be bored in West Hartford!
Residents often spend the day shopping and dining in Blue Black Square, get some fresh air at Elizabeth Park, and enjoy live theater at Playhouse on Park. Or you could share in educational adventures with the Noah Webster House and Children’s Museum.
Looking for a memorable experience? Check out some of these innovative local establishments:
- Muse Paintbar, where you can take a painting lesson over a glass of wine.
- Smash Avenue, a creative industrial space that invites you to release any pent-up frustration by breaking things (yes, seriously!).
- Mission Escape Games, an escape room, where you can find clues to solve puzzles and unlock doors.
West Hartford Homes for Sale
Visit my home-search website to search for available listings in West Hartford.
More Resources for West Hartford, Connecticut
West Hartford Chamber of Commerce
