Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Lyme, CT
Thinking of relocating to South Lyme, CT? This charming shoreline community of about 1,100 residents offers peaceful living, a median home price around $430,000, and rents averaging $1,550. Crime rates are notably low, and the area boasts a high rate of homeownership and excellent public schools. With a short average commute of 27 minutes, mild summers, and plenty of sunny days, South Lyme is perfect for those seeking coastal New England charm and quality of life.
Demographics - South Lyme, CT
Demographics - South Lyme, CT
South Lyme is a small, close-knit community of about 1,100 people, featuring a predominantly White population and a median age of 52. The area has a balanced gender ratio and a modest proportion of non-English speakers, contributing to its welcoming and neighborly atmosphere.
Population:
1,100
Density:
210 per sq mi
Median Age:
52.1
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.8%
Black:
1.3%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
4.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Lyme, CT?
The cost of living in South Lyme is higher than the national average, with a median home value of $430,000 and monthly rents around $1,550. Utilities, taxes, and everyday expenses reflect the area’s desirable coastal location, making budgeting important for new residents.
Median House Value:
$430,000
Gross Rent:
$1,550
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$155
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,380
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$820
State Taxes:
Low:
3%
|
High:
6.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
120.1
Grocery:
116.5
Housing:
128.2
Utilities:
120.0
Transportation:
114.7
Health Care:
109.5
Miscellaneous:
106.4
Crime
Is South Lyme, CT a safe place to live?
South Lyme enjoys very low crime rates, with only 56 violent crimes and 580 property crimes per 100,000 people annually. Residents benefit from a strong sense of safety and security, making it an appealing choice for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
56
Property Crimes Per 100k:
580
Crime Index:
636
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,785
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 190
Weather
What is the weather like in South Lyme, CT year-round?
Residents experience four distinct seasons, with mild summers reaching highs of 81°F and chilly winters that dip to 23°F. The area receives about 48 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunny skies 57% of the year, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
38°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
South Lyme neighborhoods are well-educated, with nearly 48% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher and a high school graduation rate of 95%. Median household incomes are strong at $91,800, and a low poverty rate and short average commute add to the community’s appeal.
Median Income:
$40,000
Household Income:
$91,800
Family Income:
$105,600
Per Capita Income:
$48,900
Income Male:
$54,800
Income Female:
$44,500
Poverty Rate:
5.3%
Non English Speakers:
6.4%
Rent:
$1,550
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
1.5%
Commute Time:
27.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
95.2%
Bachelors or More:
47.8%
Education
How are the schools in South Lyme, CT?
South Lyme offers excellent educational opportunities with small public schools, including Lyme-Old Lyme High School, known for its low student-teacher ratios and strong community support. Nearby colleges such as Connecticut College provide accessible higher education options.
Public Schools
Name:
Lyme-Old Lyme High School
Street:
69 Lyme St
Phone:
860-434-1651
Students:
470
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.1
Name:
Lyme Consolidated School
Street:
478 Hamburg Rd
Phone:
860-434-1233
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
9.8
Private Schools
Name:
The Williams School
Street:
182 Mohegan Ave, New London
Phone:
860-443-5333
Students:
210
Colleges
Name:
Connecticut College
City:
New London
State:
CT
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
1,900
Name:
Mitchell College
City:
New London
State:
CT
Distance:
9 miles
Students:
650
Healthcare
Healthcare access in South Lyme is excellent, with major hospitals like Lawrence + Memorial Hospital nearby and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 96.8%. Residents benefit from a strong local physician presence and quality primary and urgent care options.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Lawrence + Memorial Hospital
Address:
365 Montauk Ave, New London, CT 06320
Phone:
(860) 442-0711
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Yale New Haven Health - Old Lyme Medical Center
Address:
14 Lyme St, Old Lyme, CT 06371
Phone:
(860) 434-1605
Type:
Primary & Urgent Care
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
2.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
96.8%
Health Care Index:
76.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Lyme, CT?
The housing market features a median home price of $430,000, high owner-occupancy at over 77%, and healthy home appreciation rates. Rental options are available, though most residents choose to own, reflecting the area’s stability and long-term appeal.
Median Home Price:
$430,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,550
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
South Lyme residents are served by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles, located in Wethersfield, with online services and phone assistance readily available. Vehicle registration and licensing are managed efficiently through the state’s DMV system.
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.