[MrFarRocks]

Hi all,

Here is my second thread. I'm moving to New Haven this May and am considering the above areas to live. If anyone can give me a brief summary of each city's strengths and weaknesses- scenery and attractions, crime, nightlife, etc.- I would be most greatful. Also, are the condos of Harbour Close Drive nice and worth the money? Thanks again...

[maak1]

I am not an expert on New Haven but I did live in Hamden for 7 years. Hamden is an a city of 50,000+ close to New Haven but in contrast to Morris Cove and Fair Haven not close to the sound. It is much larger geographic area than Morris Cove or Fair Haven. There are alot of affordable rentals in Hamden. Close to 2 large freeways/highways (91 and 15). Quinnipiac University (an expensive private college is prominent and lots of students in the area). I think Hamden is generally safe with some lovely neighborhoods like Spring Glen and Whitneyville (but the other neighborhoods esp along the south end of Dixwell that are close New Haven can perhaps have a bit more crime). Hamden does have lots of restaurants, bars and good access to the night life in New Haven. Morris Cove is residental and is close to the sound, harbor and has beautiful parks and sunsets, but you do have to cross a very congested bridge to get anywhere. Fair Haven can be unsafe esp at night.
Re Harbor Landing Condos at Harbour Close. You are surrounded by very congested freeway 95 which is undergoing major construction from the Q bridge rebuilt. The neighborhood just across from it is pretty rough. I believe there are a few restaurants in the neighborhood but you really have to get in your car to go anywhere. I am not sure if the other 2 condo buildings next to it are completed but I do know the condo market in New Haven is in down turn and I would imagine you could negoiate your rent or price down. If you want to be on the water and close to New Haven consider West Haven as affordable with a nice boardwalk. I rent a condo on the water which is fairly affordable.

[Jpierpont]

I know few specifics but of the three I'd probaly go with Morris Cove. I don't like Hamden it seems to be reasonable safe and has an ok school system but it is an highly unattractive and has little character.

[Rich Lee]

Originally Posted by MrFarRocks

Hi all,

Here is my second thread. I'm moving to New Haven this May and am considering the above areas to live. If anyone can give me a brief summary of each city's strengths and weaknesses - scenery and attractions, crime, nightlife, etc. - I would be most greatful. Also, are the condos of Harbour Close Drive nice and worth the money? Thanks again...

First and foremost, you are essentially looking at two towns - Hamden and New Haven. Morris Cove and Fair Haven are part of the latter.

A division exists in Hamden where many folks would describe the Mount Carmel section as being similar to Cheshire and the remainder being similar to New Haven.

I am not that familiar with New Haven except that I occasionally patronize a bar there. New Haven is known for being our state's second largest city (behind Bridgport) and having a decent social scene.