Connecticut Cities Named Most Expensive Places to Live by U.S. News and World Report

The cost of living in Connecticut cities and towns has always been a topic of discussion, with various rankings highlighting the state’s attributes. However, a recent report from U.S. News and World Report has placed Hartford at the top of a new list – the most expensive place to live in the country. Following closely behind is New Haven, ranked at number four.

While Hartford scored high for quality of life, surpassing cities like Los Angeles, New York, and New Haven, it received the lowest value on the list due to high costs. Factors such as median gross rent, annual housing costs for mortgage-paying homeowners, and overall wealth required to live comfortably were taken into consideration for the rankings.

Despite the high costs, Hartford boasts a flourishing arts and theater scene, beautiful parks, and a diverse community enriched by immigrants bringing various foods and cultures. The city is also seeing a rise in new luxury apartments, aimed at attracting residents to downtown areas.

However, Hartford faces challenges such as high local taxes, a high crime rate, struggling schools, and one of the highest energy bills in the country. Additionally, the city has a high office vacancy rate, prompting efforts to revitalize empty offices and neighborhoods.

The rankings were based on a variety of data sources, weighted according to Americans’ priorities when choosing a place to live. While Connecticut ranks 20th in the country overall, it is criticized for fiscal instability and lack of opportunity, but praised for its education, public safety, and healthcare.

As Connecticut continues to see a wave of new apartments being built across rural towns, suburbs, and cities, the debate over the cost of living in the state is likely to persist.