[LivingInAmerica]

I am likely being relocated to Stamford sometime this fall for work and am looking to live in one of the more bustling, active areas of town. The two spots that stick out are downtown, and then Harbor Point, which I have heard is on the upswing.

Do you have any recommendations?

[CT_Yank]

What is budget? Harbor Point is sort of expensive, hip and kind of artificial area for young, rich folks. It is nice being by the water though. Main, Broad, Atlantic and Summer St areas have lots of action and restaurants. It feels more real and alive than HP. That is my opinion.

[LivingInAmerica]

Originally Posted by CT_Yank

What is budget? Harbor Point is sort of expensive, hip and kind of artificial area for young, rich folks. It is nice being by the water though. Main, Broad, Atlantic and Summer St areas have lots of action and restaurants. It feels more real and alive than HP. That is my opinion.

My guess would be between $1,500 (ideal) and $2,000 (could work) for a 1-bedroom. I used to live in central CT and while it was very inexpensive, I got bored due to the lack of activity in the area. I currently live in a region where I can walk to (or live a 5-10 minute drive away from) bars and fun places, and enjoy that experience more.

[JayCT]

I think you should look downtown. Rents will be cheaper and there is more to do. Harbor Point is nice and shiny new but it has a way to go before it becomes truly vibrant. Plus you will pay a premium to live there for all that newness. I am not even sure there are any decent apartments there in your price range. Good luck. Jay

[AntonioR]

Harbor Point offers a free trolley to downtown. You don’t miss out on anything by living down there. Downtown is a stone throw away.

[Stylo]

Downtown is definitely more bustling. Harbor Point is growing but pretty quiet.

South Norwalk is worth a look too. I personally prefer it to downtown Stamford. But YMMV. Would only consider it if you can take train to work as traffic is rough.

[lginlg]

Downtown, period. It has the action, and is far more "single" friendly than HP. And more in your $ range, tho prepare yourself for some sticker shock.

[LivingInAmerica]

I know I'm reviving a buried thread, but now I can say with much more certainty that I am making the move. The insight here is very helpful, downtown looks like the place to be. After doing some of my own research, I can afford a 1-bedroom in a nicer apartment ($2K/month). I am impressed by how many of these places have garage parking and are also a 10 minute walk to the main social scene.

[Robert137]

Welcome to Stamford! "Downtown" Stamford is fairly compact, it's small as far as cities go. You'll be walking distance to the Metro North train station, with a 45-minute ride to Manhattan, so there's that as well.
Good luck with your upcoming move and post any questions you may have about the area.

[allanny13]

Habor Point is a compelling millennial-type lifestyle area, and so the apartments are at a premium- they start at the upper limit of your range, and that's before the extra fees for facilities and parking, so I think downtown makes more sense. There are cheaper apartment buildings on Glenbrook rd and Strawberry Hill ave that are just outside downtown but a 10 min walk from the action.