Everything You Should Know Before Moving to New Haven, CT
Thinking of moving to New Haven, CT? With a population of nearly 139,000, New Haven is a vibrant city known for its diverse culture, world-class universities, and lively arts scene. The median home price is $267,000, and median rent is around $1,430, making it relatively affordable for the region. Commute times average under 24 minutes, and educational opportunities abound thanks to Yale University and strong public schools. While crime rates are above national averages, New Haven offers rich amenities, walkable neighborhoods, and a classic New England climate with four distinct seasons.
Demographics - New Haven, CT
Demographics - New Haven, CT
New Haven is home to nearly 139,000 residents, with a youthful median age of 30.5 and a population density of about 6,900 people per square mile. The city features a blend of cultures, with no single group forming a majority, and about 22% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. This diversity gives New Haven its vibrant, cosmopolitan character.
Population:
138,915
Density:
6,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
30.5
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
22.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
30.1%
Black:
32.6%
Asian:
5.3%
Others:
32.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in New Haven, CT?
Living in New Haven is moderately affordable for the region, with a median home value of $267,000 and average rent around $1,430 per month. The overall cost of living index is slightly above the national average, mainly due to higher utility and transportation costs. State income taxes range from 3% to 6.99%, making budgeting an important consideration for newcomers.
Median House Value:
$267,000
Gross Rent:
$1,430
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,520
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$580
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
110.7
Grocery:
105.3
Housing:
95.9
Utilities:
124.0
Transportation:
110.4
Health Care:
109.1
Miscellaneous:
107.0
Crime
Is New Haven, CT a safe place to live?
New Haven experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with a chance of violent crime at about 1 in 127 and property crime at 1 in 41 annually. While certain neighborhoods are safer than others, residents should stay informed and take standard precautions. The city continues working on safety initiatives to improve local quality of life.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
789
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,455
Crime Index:
3,244
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 127
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 41
Weather
What is the weather like in New Haven, CT year-round?
New Haven enjoys four distinct seasons, with cold winters averaging lows in the low 20s and warm summers reaching the low 80s. The city receives about 47.5 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine about 54% of the year. This classic New England climate offers residents vibrant fall foliage and comfortable spring and fall temperatures.

Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
38°F

Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Residents of New Haven have a median household income of about $48,000, with a notable poverty rate of 24.5%. The community is educated, with over 82% having at least a high school diploma and 37% holding a bachelor's degree or higher. Many locals use public transportation, and the average commute time is under 24 minutes.
Median Income:
$44,000
Household Income:
$48,200
Family Income:
$58,310
Per Capita Income:
$28,900
Income Male:
$38,500
Income Female:
$34,100
Poverty Rate:
24.5%
Non English Speakers:
22.5%
Rent:
$1,430
Unemployment Rate:
6.1%
Public Transport Usage:
17.2%
Commute Time:
23.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
82.9%
Bachelors or More:
37.1%
Education
How are the schools in New Haven, CT?
New Haven offers a wide range of educational opportunities, including strong public schools with reasonable student-teacher ratios and renowned private institutions like Hopkins School. Higher education is a hallmark, with Yale University and Southern Connecticut State University providing world-class academic and research opportunities right in the city. Families and students benefit from a supportive academic environment at all levels.

Public Schools
Name:
Wilbur Cross High School
Street:
181 Mitchell Dr
Phone:
475-220-7400
Students:
1,450
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Name:
Worthington Hooker School
Street:
691 Whitney Ave
Phone:
475-220-5600
Students:
540
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.4

Private Schools
Name:
Hopkins School
Street:
986 Forest Rd
Phone:
203-397-1001
Students:
715

Colleges
Name:
Yale University
City:
New Haven
State:
CT
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
14,500
Name:
Southern Connecticut State University
City:
New Haven
State:
CT
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
8,800
Healthcare
New Haven boasts high-quality healthcare, anchored by Yale New Haven Hospital and other major medical centers offering comprehensive services, including emergency care. The city has a strong physician presence, with 3.1 doctors per 1,000 residents, and over 92% of locals have health insurance coverage. This ensures residents have broad access to medical care and specialists.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Yale New Haven Hospital
Address:
20 York St, New Haven, CT 06510
Phone:
(203) 688-4242
Type:
General & Teaching
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
St. Raphael Campus - Yale New Haven Health
Address:
1450 Chapel St, New Haven, CT 06511
Phone:
(203) 789-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.5%
Health Care Index:
76.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in New Haven, CT?
New Haven's housing market features a median home price of $267,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,430, making it accessible for many buyers and renters. The city has a lower owner-occupancy rate at 28.1%, reflecting a strong rental market and a moderate vacancy rate. Home values have appreciated by nearly 5% over the past year, indicating a steadily growing market.
Median Home Price:
$267,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,430
Owner Occupied Rate:
28.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Motor vehicle services in New Haven are provided by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles, with the main office located in Wethersfield. Residents can access information, licenses, and registrations through the DMV’s comprehensive website or by phone. State DMV offices offer a range of services for new arrivals and longtime locals alike.
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.