Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Darien, CT
Considering a move to Darien, CT? This charming coastal town of 21,500 offers top-ranked public schools, extremely low crime (just 25 violent crimes per 100K), and a family-friendly atmosphere. While the median home price is high at $1.7M and average rents are around $3,000, residents enjoy high incomes, easy rail commutes to NYC, and a well-educated, welcoming community. With great healthcare options, 54% sunny days, and a scenic New England climate, Darien is an excellent choice for those seeking a safe, upscale suburban lifestyle.
Demographics - Darien, CT
Demographics - Darien, CT
Darien is a picturesque New England town of about 21,500 residents, featuring a predominantly White population with a median age of 41.8 and a balanced gender ratio. The community is highly educated and family-oriented, with just over 9% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate density offers a suburban environment ideal for families and professionals.
Population:
21,500
Density:
1,700 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.8
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
9.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
88.0%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
7.5%
Others:
3.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Darien, CT?
The cost of living in Darien is notably high, with a median home value of $1.7 million and average rents near $3,000, reflecting its affluent status. Utilities, groceries, and transportation are also above national averages, making it one of the more expensive locations in Connecticut. State income tax rates range from 3.0% to 6.99%, so new residents should budget accordingly.
Median House Value:
$1,700,000
Gross Rent:
$3,000
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$160
Auto Insurance:
$1,620
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$4,200
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,400
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
187.0
Grocery:
124.0
Housing:
315.0
Utilities:
115.0
Transportation:
124.0
Health Care:
110.0
Miscellaneous:
116.0
Crime
Is Darien, CT a safe place to live?
Darien offers an exceptionally safe environment, with violent crime rates as low as 25 per 100,000 people and property crime remaining rare. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 4,000, making it one of Connecticut’s safest communities. Residents enjoy peace of mind thanks to the town’s strong focus on safety and community well-being.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
25
Property Crimes Per 100k:
580
Crime Index:
605
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 4,000
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 170
Weather
What is the weather like in Darien, CT year-round?
Darien experiences all four seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 83°F and chilly winters that can dip to 21°F. The area receives nearly 49 inches of rainfall annually, but about 54% of days are sunny, allowing for plenty of outdoor activities throughout the year. The climate is ideal for those who appreciate scenic seasonal changes and coastal breezes.
Winter
Min:
21°F
Max:
38°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Darien’s residents enjoy a very high quality of life, with median household incomes around $250,000 and a low poverty rate of 2.4%. The area boasts excellent schools—over 80% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher—and a low unemployment rate. Many neighbors commute to New York City, with average travel times of about 39 minutes, often utilizing convenient public transportation options.
Median Income:
$90,000
Household Income:
$250,000
Family Income:
$295,000
Per Capita Income:
$110,000
Income Male:
$150,000
Income Female:
$85,000
Poverty Rate:
2.4%
Non English Speakers:
9.2%
Rent:
$3,000
Unemployment Rate:
2.8%
Public Transport Usage:
18.1%
Commute Time:
39.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
98.7%
Bachelors or More:
80.5%
Education
How are the schools in Darien, CT?
Darien is renowned for its excellent public schools, with high graduation rates and favorable student-teacher ratios, such as 12:1 at Darien High School. The town also offers private and after-school enrichment options, and is conveniently located near top colleges like Norwalk Community College and UConn Stamford. These educational resources make it an attractive destination for families prioritizing academic success.
Public Schools
Name:
Darien High School
Street:
80 High School Ln
Phone:
203-655-3981
Students:
1,370
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.2
Name:
Middlesex Middle School
Street:
204 Hollow Tree Ridge Rd
Phone:
203-655-2518
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.6
Private Schools
Name:
The Depot Youth Center (after-school programs)
Street:
25 Heights Rd
Phone:
203-655-0812
Students:
N/A
Colleges
Name:
Norwalk Community College
City:
Norwalk
State:
CT
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
6,000
Name:
University of Connecticut - Stamford
City:
Stamford
State:
CT
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
2,100
Healthcare
Darien is well-served by nearby hospitals such as Stamford Hospital and Norwalk Hospital, offering comprehensive emergency and general healthcare. With 3.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and 97% health insurance coverage, access to quality medical care is excellent. The community’s focus on health is reflected in its strong healthcare infrastructure and services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Stamford Hospital
Address:
1 Hospital Plaza, Stamford, CT 06902
Phone:
(203) 276-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Norwalk Hospital
Address:
34 Maple St, Norwalk, CT 06856
Phone:
(203) 852-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.1%
Health Care Index:
79.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Darien, CT?
Darien’s housing market is dominated by owner-occupied homes, with a median price of $1.7 million and a low rental vacancy rate. Home values have appreciated about 4% in the past year, indicating a robust and stable market. The area’s upscale character is also reflected in its high average rents and minimal foreclosure rates.
Median Home Price:
$1,700,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$3,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
86.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Driver and vehicle services in Darien are managed by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest major office located at 60 State Street, Wethersfield. Residents can access registration, licensing, and other DMV needs both in person and online. The state DMV provides comprehensive resources and support for new and current drivers.
State:
Connecticut
Department:
Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
60 State Street, Wethersfield, CT 06161
Phone:
1-860-263-5700
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.