[contremp]

I was considering moving to connecticut and would like to know if there are any parts of the state that are worse than others to live in.

[JayCT]

Connecticut is a wonderful state and I really don't think there are any particular areas to avoid. What may be less-desirable to you might be desirable to someone else. It is really a matter of personal preference. If you provide us with what you like and dislike we should be able to steer you to a good location to look at. Jay

[ansky]

That is a very broad question. What type of area are you looking for...urban, suburban, rural? In my opinion Fairfield county is the most desirable part of the state due to its proximity to NYC. My least favorite areas would be the northeast and northwest corners of the state due to their rural nature.

[andthentherewere3]

Originally Posted by ansky

That is a very broad question. What type of area are you looking for...urban, suburban, rural? In my opinion Fairfield county is the most desirable part of the state due to its proximity to NYC. My least favorite areas would be the northeast and northwest corners of the state due to their rural nature.

LOL, I feel exactly the opposite. I am not a fan of Fairfield County because it is more densely developed, as a result of it's close proximity to NYC. I prefer northern Ct. It's exactly as Jay says, what appeals to one person may not appeal to another, it's just a matter of preference. If the OP can provide their likes/dislikes, we can offer some advice.

[contremp]

What about nice suburban and rural towns as close to the coast as possible with affordable housing not exceeding the price range of 250k? My family likes the ocean, but we really don't like the west coast. It's crowded and expensive.

[mlassoff]

You would have to look in Eastern Connecticut to find coastal housing in that price range. You might want to check towns like Old Lyme, and even sections of Groton and New London to find coastal housing in that price range. Just like in California, coastal housing is considered desirable in Connecticut and is priced accordingly.

I don't know at all if it would meet your needs, because the schools in town have what Jay calls "typical urban issues" but the Black Rock section of Bridgeport, where I live, is very nice, very close to the coast and may have housing in your price range. Much of Bridgeport, however, is poor and you might not feel comfortable if you are from a more suburban/ rural environment.

[contremp]

Thanks for all the info so far! What can you tell me about New london? What towns there would be good for raising kids and have good schools and also have conveniently located shopping centers and grocery stores.

[7 Wishes]

Originally Posted by andthentherewere3

LOL, I feel exactly the opposite. I am not a fan of Fairfield County because it is more densely developed, as a result of it's close proximity to NYC. I prefer northern Ct. It's exactly as Jay says, what appeals to one person may not appeal to another, it's just a matter of preference. If the OP can provide their likes/dislikes, we can offer some advice.

And as a result, Fairfield County is uber-expensive as well.

[renovating]

I just had to chime in again as it seems I am usually going against the grain....

I fell in love with more than a few Fairfield County towns because of their rural, country, relaxed charm! Towns like Easton, Weston, Redding, Wilton, Newtown, New Fairfield, Bethel, Brookfield and most parts of Ridgefield are very rural and not dense at all!

I think the hustle, bustle and density of Fairfield County is the 95 corridor, which really is a small part of the entire county in land mass but high in the population count.

West of 15 though, is a very different vibe! I realize the towns I mention are not in the OPs price range though!

[Tetto]

Originally Posted by contremp

Thanks for all the info so far! What can you tell me about New london? What towns there would be good for raising kids and have good schools and also have conveniently located shopping centers and grocery stores.

Towns like Waterford, Niantic, Quaker Hill, Mystic,Old Lyme and South Lyme might fit the bill.