Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Essex, CT
Considering a move to Essex, CT? This charming small town of 6,733 boasts a high quality of life with a median home price of $415,000 and average rent around $1,450. Essex is known for its excellent schools, very low crime rates (only 48 violent crimes per 100K), and short 28-minute average commutes. Residents enjoy a scenic New England climate with 54% sunny days and easy access to top healthcare. Discover why Essex’s vibrant community and tranquil lifestyle make it a standout spot for your next home.
Demographics - Essex, CT
Essex, CT is a small town of 6,733 people, known for its predominantly White population and a median age of 53.2, reflecting a mature and established community. The moderate population density and balanced gender ratio contribute to its peaceful, close-knit atmosphere. Non-English speakers represent just over 4% of residents, suggesting a primarily English-speaking environment with some diversity.
Population:
6,733
Density:
430 per sq mi
Median Age:
53.2
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.5%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
1.6%
Others:
2.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Essex, CT?
Living in Essex comes with a cost of living index of 120.8, higher than the national average, with a median home value of $415,000 and typical rents around $1,450. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also above average, reflecting the town’s desirable location and amenities. State income taxes range from 3.0% to 6.99%, making budgeting an important consideration for newcomers.
Median House Value:
$415,000
Gross Rent:
$1,450
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$170
Auto Insurance:
$1,480
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,200
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$820
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
120.8
Grocery:
113.2
Housing:
124.4
Utilities:
118.0
Transportation:
111.5
Health Care:
110.9
Miscellaneous:
108.6
Crime
Is Essex, CT a safe place to live?
Essex is a notably safe community, with very low crime rates—violent crime occurs at a rate of only 48 incidents per 100,000 residents, and the chance of property crime is just 1 in 161. These figures contribute to the town’s reputation for safety and provide peace of mind for families and retirees alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
48
Property Crimes Per 100k:
620
Crime Index:
668
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 2,100
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 161
Weather
What is the weather like in Essex, CT year-round?
Residents of Essex enjoy the full spectrum of New England seasons, with warm summers peaking at 83°F and chilly winters dipping to 23°F. The area receives about 47.7 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunny weather 54% of the year, making it ideal for outdoor activities and scenic living year-round.
Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
38°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Households in Essex are generally well-off, with a median household income of $100,194 and a low poverty rate of 5.2%. Most residents are highly educated—over 97% have at least a high school diploma and more than half hold a bachelor’s degree—fostering a well-informed and engaged community. The average commute is just under 28 minutes, and only a small percentage rely on public transportation.
Median Income:
$53,500
Household Income:
$100,194
Family Income:
$126,000
Per Capita Income:
$53,400
Income Male:
$61,000
Income Female:
$47,800
Poverty Rate:
5.2%
Non English Speakers:
4.1%
Rent:
$1,450
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
27.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.2%
Bachelors or More:
55.6%
Education
How are the schools in Essex, CT?
Essex offers excellent educational opportunities, with well-rated public schools such as Essex Elementary and Valley Regional High School featuring low student-teacher ratios around 11:1. Private schools and nearby higher education institutions, including Middlesex Community College and Wesleyan University in Middletown, provide a full spectrum of learning options. The town’s commitment to education is reflected in its high graduation and degree attainment rates.
Public Schools
Name:
Essex Elementary School
Street:
108 Main St
Phone:
860-767-8215
Students:
425
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.5
Name:
Valley Regional High School
Street:
256 Kelsey Hill Rd, Deep River
Phone:
860-526-5328
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.4
Private Schools
Name:
The Country School
Street:
341 Opening Hill Rd, Madison
Phone:
203-421-3113
Students:
230
Colleges
Name:
Middlesex Community College
City:
Middletown
State:
CT
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
2,200
Name:
Wesleyan University
City:
Middletown
State:
CT
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
3,200
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Essex is strong, with 96.1% of residents insured and several major hospitals, including Middlesex Health Shoreline Medical Center, nearby. There are 3.2 physicians per 1,000 residents, ensuring quality care is readily available. The area’s healthcare index of 77.3 reflects both accessibility and service quality.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Middlesex Health Shoreline Medical Center
Address:
250 Flat Rock Pl, Westbrook, CT 06498
Phone:
(860) 358-3700
Type:
Emergency & Outpatient
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Yale New Haven Hospital
Address:
20 York St, New Haven, CT 06510
Phone:
(203) 688-4242
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
96.1%
Health Care Index:
77.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Essex, CT?
The Essex housing market is robust, with a median home price of $415,000 and consistent appreciation at 6.2% over the past year. Most homes are owner-occupied, and rental vacancies remain low at 3.5%, indicating steady demand. Affordable rents and low foreclosure rates make it an appealing market for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$415,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,500
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents of Essex are served by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Wethersfield. The DMV provides a full range of vehicle and licensing services both in-person and online through the state portal, offering convenience and accessibility for all your transportation needs.
State:
Connecticut
Department:
Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
60 State Street, Wethersfield, CT 06161
Phone:
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.