Ridgefield or New Fairfield (Danbury: homes, move, wealthy)

[MomOfToo]

We currently live in the Danbury area but are looking to move closer to Westchester for husbands commute. Both will offer an easy commute as long as we stay near the NY border but I can't seem to make up my mind which school district would be better for my children. I know both are good but which is better? Both made the top 500 high schools in the country but that I know could always change. Which town has more to offer?

[jad2000]

Originally Posted by MomOfToo

We currently live in the Danbury area but are looking to move closer to Westchester for husbands commute. Both will offer an easy commute as long as we stay near the NY border but I can't seem to make up my mind which school district would be better for my children. I know both are good but which is better? Both made the top 500 high schools in the country but that I know could always change. Which town has more to offer?

They are both very nice towns to raise a family - Ridgefield being much more expensive as it's closer to Westchester and NYC than New Fairfield. To get to 684 in Westchester from the center of Ridgefield, you take Route 35 and from NF, you take 84 to 684. Schools in both towns are excellent.

If you don't mind paying more for a shorter commute, consider Ridgefield. If you want a less expensive home and don't mind a commute that's 10 minutes longer, NF may be your best bet. Keep in mind, NF gets a bit congested during the summer months due to wealthy NYers having homes on Candlewood Lake.

If I were to choose, I'd spend a bit more to live in Ridgefield. JMO however. Good luck

[jdhall1]

As a realtor, I can not discuss schools. New Fairfield is more affordable and only a few minutes further commute. Good luck!

[JayCT]

Though both school systems are excellent, Ridgefield schools score slightly better than New Fairfield. I doubt it really means much though since both systems seem to have class sizes that are about the same (just over 20 students per class). Ridgefield is closer to Westchester and is often RAVED about on this Board and in various publications. I think that gives it a slight edge as well. BUT... as JAD200 noted, New Fairfield homes are less expensive so it may be worth the extra distance. Good luck, Jay