[Comp625]

I think it depends on how OP defines biking and defines downtown. Unless you're in a city, I don't think many places offer vast amounts of developed land for biking purposes.

Similarly, I think OP has to decide on specifics - CT homes that fit the $300k budget with 3BR are mostly older and will probably require elbowgrease. Sadly, that bumps the well-regarded and aforementioned Milford out of the equation, in my opinion. I don't know Madison or Guilford that well, but I think the cost vs. starter-home issue holds true against those towns, too.

One crazy idea is to maybe look into Stratford. It has a population of 50,000 and I am seeing homes in my neighborhood (near Paradise Green) go up for around $280-$290k. Downtown is OK, but I think Paradise Green is the "true" downtown since it has a more charming feel to it. However, the homes here are older from the 1950's-1970's, and the schools are average at best. Also, the degree of bike-ability is no different than other towns, in my opinion.

Disclaimer: I am an alum of one of the Stratford high schools, so things can't be THAT bad.

[Mr_250]

I would like to add the possible of East Lyme. Lovely town, great schools and if you are looking for an investment property you could look at Niantic (summer rentals) also Niantic (village of East Lyme) is very cute. Not sure what $300K will get you down there.

[htfdcolt]

Originally Posted by thoermann

I need a little guidance on finding just the right spot for us in CT. We have made a couple trips and haven't quite found the right thing. We currently live in Upstate NY and are not happy with the "struggling" economy and feeling that brings.

Here are the details:

Looking for a town with 30-60,000 population.
Active, "cute", walkable downtown and bikeable town and neighborhoods.
We are self employed and can work anywhere.
We have 3 school age children...so good schools are desired.
Need a 3-4 bedroom home around $300,000.
We would like to purchase investment/income properties also.

Our findings so far:

Glastonbury: like it a lot...not quite enough of a walkable downtown.
West Hartford: like it a lot...a little too busy and not really bikeable neighborhoods.
Simsbury: not a good match
Mystic: love it...afraid if might be too quiet in the off season
Essex: cute but too small
Middletown: downtown has potential...but not the right match

Thanks!!

A bit surprised that you didn't like Simsbury...that would have been my vote...although your housing budget would be stretched. This town is the only one to receive the bike-friendly designation in CT:

Bike Walk Simsbury, CT

Also, it's not as busy as West Hartford, has some of the best schools in the state, a nice walkable center with entertainment & dining, plus easy access to an airport. You didn't mention the latter as a criterion, but if it's important, just be aware that this will be an issue with any of the coastal CT communities.

[thoermann]

Yes, got it! Thank you.

[JayCT]

Originally Posted by htfdcolt

A bit surprised that you didn't like Simsbury...that would have been my vote...although your housing budget would be stretched. This town is the only one to receive the bike-friendly designation in CT:

Bike Walk Simsbury, CT

Also, it's not as busy as West Hartford, has some of the best schools in the state, a nice walkable center with entertainment & dining, plus easy access to an airport. You didn't mention the latter as a criterion, but if it's important, just be aware that this will be an issue with any of the coastal CT communities.

I am guessing they found Simsbury to be too rural in character. Like I said the OP is going to need to prioritize what they want. West Hartford is too busy, Glastonbury not big enough? There really is nothing in between anywhere in the state really. To have that density you need for a real downtown you will have traffic. That is true anywhere. Jay

[CTartist&musician]

I am not sure of the kind of biking you want but there is a really nice paved bike trail in my area. Here is a list of some of the best bike trails in CT. #5 Monroe and #4 Trumbull are actually one long trail and they hook up. This bike (and walking) trail starts on the bottom of Church Hill Road in Trumbull and goes all the way to Newtown. Along the way the bike trail pases through some very nice parks in Trumbull and Monroe. People come from all over CT to use this bike trail and I am pretty sure you don't need a permit to park in the Church Hill Road parking lot in Trumbull. If you bought a house in Shelton or the northern part of Stratford (or other towns) I am pretty sure you can come use the bike trail and park in Trumbull's parking lot.


Explore Connecticut: Top 5 Paved Bike Trails in Connecticut