Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bristol, CT
Considering a move to Bristol, CT? With a population of just under 60,000, Bristol offers a friendly small-city vibe, affordable housing with a median home price around $253,000, and average rents near $1,310. Residents enjoy a moderate cost of living, low violent crime rates (171 per 100K), and easy commutes averaging 26.5 minutes. The city boasts solid public schools, nearby colleges, and all four seasons—plus plenty of sunny days to enjoy parks and local attractions. Explore more below to see if Bristol fits your lifestyle!
Demographics - Bristol, CT
Demographics - Bristol, CT
Bristol, CT is home to nearly 60,000 residents, offering a balanced mix of ages with a median age of 41.2 and a population density of about 2,100 people per square mile. The community is predominantly White, but also includes Black, Asian, and other ethnic groups, and around 13.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. This diversity contributes to Bristol’s welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
Population:
59,734
Density:
2,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
13.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
78.5%
Black:
6.2%
Asian:
2.4%
Others:
12.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bristol, CT?
Bristol features a moderate cost of living, with a median home value of $253,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,310. Utility costs and state taxes are in line with Connecticut averages, making it an affordable choice for families and professionals. Overall, the cost of living index is just slightly above the national average, providing good value for those seeking suburban comfort.
Median House Value:
$253,000
Gross Rent:
$1,310
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$175
Auto Insurance:
$1,410
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,910
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$615
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
104.2
Grocery:
103.3
Housing:
92.1
Utilities:
122.5
Transportation:
109.7
Health Care:
106.0
Miscellaneous:
101.0
Crime
Is Bristol, CT a safe place to live?
Bristol enjoys a relatively low violent crime rate, with 171 incidents per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 585 chance of being affected. Property crime is more common at a 1 in 63 chance, but overall, the city maintains a safe environment for families and individuals. Residents can feel secure while enjoying Bristol’s neighborhoods and amenities.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
171
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,585
Crime Index:
1,756
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 585
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 63
Weather
What is the weather like in Bristol, CT year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons in Bristol, with cold winters averaging lows around 20°F and warm summers with highs reaching 84°F. The city receives about 49 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 53% of the year. This climate supports a variety of outdoor activities throughout the changing seasons.

Winter
Min:
20°F
Max:
37°F

Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
66°F

Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
84°F

Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
49.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
Bristol’s neighborhoods are home to a mix of families and professionals, with a median household income of $77,200 and a poverty rate of 10.1%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and average commute times are manageable at around 26.5 minutes. The community is diverse and welcoming, with a steady job market and affordable rents.
Median Income:
$42,900
Household Income:
$77,200
Family Income:
$94,000
Per Capita Income:
$37,800
Income Male:
$54,200
Income Female:
$44,800
Poverty Rate:
10.1%
Non English Speakers:
13.5%
Rent:
$1,310
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
26.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.6%
Bachelors or More:
25.9%
Education
How are the schools in Bristol, CT?
Bristol provides strong educational options, featuring well-rated public schools like Chippens Hill Middle School and Bristol Eastern High School, as well as private institutions such as St. Paul Catholic High School. Higher education opportunities are close by, with Tunxis Community College and Central Connecticut State University both within a short drive. The city’s commitment to education supports lifelong learning for students of all ages.

Public Schools
Name:
Chippens Hill Middle School
Street:
551 Peacedale St
Phone:
860-584-3881
Students:
680
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.9
Name:
Bristol Eastern High School
Street:
632 King St
Phone:
860-584-7876
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5

Private Schools
Name:
St. Paul Catholic High School
Street:
1001 Stafford Ave
Phone:
860-584-0911
Students:
440

Colleges
Name:
Tunxis Community College
City:
Farmington
State:
CT
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
6,500
Name:
Central Connecticut State University
City:
New Britain
State:
CT
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
11,800
Healthcare
Bristol offers access to quality healthcare, anchored by Bristol Hospital and nearby major medical centers, providing emergency and general care services. The area has a solid physician-to-resident ratio and over 94% health insurance coverage, ensuring residents can access needed medical attention. Healthcare resources are robust for a city of Bristol’s size.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Bristol Hospital
Address:
41 Brewster Rd, Bristol, CT 06010
Phone:
(860) 585-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
The Hospital of Central Connecticut - New Britain
Address:
100 Grand St, New Britain, CT 06052
Phone:
(860) 224-5011
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.4%
Health Care Index:
70.6
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bristol, CT?
The housing market in Bristol is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $253,000 and a homeownership rate of nearly 66%. Rental vacancies remain moderate, and home values have appreciated by 6.4% over the past year. This makes Bristol an attractive option for both buyers and renters seeking long-term value.
Median Home Price:
$253,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,310
Owner Occupied Rate:
65.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Bristol are served by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles, which offers a full range of licensing and registration services. The nearest DMV office is located in Wethersfield, with comprehensive information and resources available through the official state website. Access to DMV services is straightforward and well-supported for local drivers.
State:
Connecticut
Department:
Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
60 State Street, Wethersfield, CT 06161
Phone:
1-800-842-8222
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.