[krdpm]

We will be moving to CT in about 2 years, and have of schools. We've driven through Southbury a few times and checked out what's available for sale now, and I have a few questions/concerns. Are there areas of town that have a more neighborhood street kind of feel, or is it mainly the very woodsy feel which we've seen? Also, it seems as if everything is either new construction in the 600K range, or else quite old and too small. I'm looking for a happy medium, as we have only 1 child (and won't be having anymore) and our price range will probably be 350K to maybe 425/450. We would rather pay for quality than square footage. Also, could anyone describe the feel of the town, kind of generally what people are like? I'd appreciate any insights/opinions/info that anyone may have to offer!

[jdhall1]

According to the MLS, there are 26 homes listed between $350,000 to $450,000 with the average list price in that price range being $406,515. The town is about the typical New England town with antique shops and a small shopping center with what I believe is/was a K-Mart and some other national stores. The town has become an affordable alternative to lower Fairfield County. I'm sorry can't be more of a help to you.

[nnp]

I grew up in Southbury. There are tons of cul de sac neighborhoods. Many of them have newer homes in higher price ranges, but there are still many neighborhoods like that in your price range.

It's a great town-- fabulous schools (some of the best in Connecticut) and a terrific place to grow up. The town has a brand new library, community center, and lots of great parks and other outdoor activities.

Plus there are a good amount of stores and dining options. There's Starbucks, The Gap, and your usual suburban chains. But there are also lots of unique smaller stores and the town has still preserved a lot of its New England charm alongside new development.

[S2000]

When you are out there again please check out Middlebury. I grew up there as well. Southbury and Middlebury share school systems. Middlebury has a more smaller town charm than Southbury. In fact, I think Southbury is getting a bit overbuilt but thats my opinion.

Oxford may be a little more easier on home prices but they are more woodsy. Although their housing prices have been climbing over the years.

BTW, can you give more information why you are moving here? Job? Where is the job located?

[krdpm]

Thanks for the responses. We are moving primarily for a better school system, and also to be closer to my parents in Greenwich and sister and her family in Nyack, NY. The drive now is about 2 hours, and as my parents are getting older it would be much nicer to be about an hour, maybe a little more, away. I grew up in Greenwich, and have no interest at all in the whole Fairfield county thing. My first choice would be the Storrs/Mansfield area, but as far as family goes, it would actually be a longer drive. Southbury (and maybe Cheshire) seem like reasonable compromise, at least so far. My husband is a nurse, and so can find a good job anywhere. I'm now at home with my daughter, but in 3-4 years may be looking at getting back into something. (I am/was a podiatrist).

[jeremeyk482]

Originally Posted by krdpm

Thanks for the responses. We are moving primarily for a better school system, and also to be closer to my parents in Greenwich and sister and her family in Nyack, NY. The drive now is about 2 hours, and as my parents are getting older it would be much nicer to be about an hour, maybe a little more, away. I grew up in Greenwich, and have no interest at all in the whole Fairfield county thing. My first choice would be the Storrs/Mansfield area, but as far as family goes, it would actually be a longer drive. Southbury (and maybe Cheshire) seem like reasonable compromise, at least so far. My husband is a nurse, and so can find a good job anywhere. I'm now at home with my daughter, but in 3-4 years may be looking at getting back into something. (I am/was a podiatrist).

I really don't think you can go wrong with Southbury. It's more affordable than Fairfield County, and the community is friendly and quaint. Lots of businesses, close to Danbury/Waterbury and a little over an hour to NYC.

To get to Greenwich, I think the quickest way would be 84 to 684. A more direct (and faster) route is available if you lived in Oxford or Monroe, where you would hop on the Merritt Pkwy and be in Greenwich in less than an hour. Home prices are comparable to Southbury's (Monroe maybe a bit higher) but schools in all three towns are good.

Good luck with your move.