Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Portland, CT
Considering a move to Portland, CT? This welcoming town of 9,384 combines a relaxed small-town feel with convenient access to nearby Middletown. Median home prices are around $323,000, and average rents are about $1,340, making it an affordable option in central Connecticut. Residents enjoy low crime rates, a strong public school system, and a quick 27-minute average commute. With four-season weather, plenty of sunshine, and high rates of insured residents, Portland is ideal for families and professionals seeking comfort and community.
Demographics - Portland, CT
Demographics - Portland, CT
Portland, CT is a close-knit town of about 9,400 residents, primarily White, with a median age of 47.2, reflecting a mature and stable community. The population density is moderate at 350 people per square mile, and nearly 8% speak a language other than English at home. The gender ratio is balanced, making Portland a well-rounded place for individuals and families alike.
Population:
9,384
Density:
350 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.2
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
91.2%
Black:
2.3%
Asian:
2.0%
Others:
4.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Portland, CT?
Portland offers a cost of living slightly above the national average, with a median home value of $323,000 and average rents at $1,340 per month. Utilities and daily expenses are reasonable, and state income tax rates range from 3% to 6.99%. This balance of housing affordability and manageable living costs makes it appealing for both homeowners and renters.
Median House Value:
$323,000
Gross Rent:
$1,340
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,480
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$820
State Taxes:
Low:
3.00%
|
High:
6.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
108.7
Grocery:
105.5
Housing:
112.2
Utilities:
103.8
Transportation:
108.0
Health Care:
106.4
Miscellaneous:
104.8
Crime
Is Portland, CT a safe place to live?
Portland boasts a low crime rate, with just 82 violent crimes and 1,020 property crimes per 100,000 residents, ensuring a safe environment for families. The chance of experiencing violent crime is just 1 in 1,220, much lower than many areas in the region. Residents enjoy peace of mind thanks to the town's strong sense of security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
82
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,020
Crime Index:
1,102
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,220
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 98
Weather
What is the weather like in Portland, CT year-round?
Portland experiences all four seasons, with warm, pleasant summers reaching highs in the mid-80s and chilly winters dipping to the upper teens. The area receives about 47 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 54% of days. This climate supports a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Households in Portland benefit from strong median and family incomes, with the typical household earning over $101,000 a year and a low poverty rate of 5.4%. The community is highly educated, with nearly 95% holding at least a high school diploma and close to 39% having a bachelor’s degree or higher. Residents enjoy a manageable average commute of 27 minutes and a low unemployment rate.
Median Income:
$54,900
Household Income:
$101,200
Family Income:
$117,300
Per Capita Income:
$48,800
Income Male:
$60,300
Income Female:
$50,500
Poverty Rate:
5.4%
Non English Speakers:
7.8%
Rent:
$1,340
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
2.1%
Commute Time:
26.9 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.8%
Bachelors or More:
38.7%
Education
How are the schools in Portland, CT?
Portland features a strong public school system with small class sizes, including Portland High School and Gildersleeve School, while also offering private education options. Higher education is easily accessible, with Wesleyan University and Middlesex Community College just a short drive away. This educational environment supports both young families and lifelong learners.
Public Schools
Name:
Portland High School
Street:
95 High St
Phone:
860-342-1720
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.4
Name:
Gildersleeve School
Street:
575 Main St
Phone:
860-342-2040
Students:
250
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.2
Private Schools
Name:
Valley View Montessori School
Street:
204 Middle Haddam Rd
Phone:
860-342-1847
Students:
60
Colleges
Name:
Wesleyan University
City:
Middletown
State:
CT
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
3,200
Name:
Middlesex Community College
City:
Middletown
State:
CT
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
2,300
Healthcare
Portland residents have convenient access to quality healthcare, including nearby Middlesex Health for general and emergency services. The area is well-served with 3.1 physicians per 1,000 people, and a high 96.5% of residents have health insurance coverage. This ensures that both routine and urgent medical needs are easily met.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Middlesex Health
Address:
28 Crescent St, Middletown, CT 06457
Phone:
(860) 358-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
96.5%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Portland, CT?
The local housing market is stable, with a median home price of $323,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 77%. Rental options are available, with average rents for a two-bedroom at $1,340 and a low vacancy rate. Home values have appreciated by over 6% in the past year, signaling a healthy real estate market.
Median Home Price:
$323,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,340
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
All vehicle and licensing services for Portland residents are provided by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles, located in Wethersfield. The DMV offers comprehensive resources and can be reached via their website or by phone for convenient access to essential services.
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.