[Umeshu]

Hello!


My family is relocating to CT for work at UConn (Storrs) next year. My child is turning 4, and there will be a newborn soon after our move.


We've lived outside of the U.S. all our lives, and in two densely populated cities in Asia. So I'm used to an efficient public transport system to get around, while my wife is excited at being able to drive around in CT. I'm a fairly inexperienced driver, so we decided that a commute longer than 30 minutes would not make sense.


I found a similar thread [//www.city-data.com/forum/conne...-live-if.html] with a long list of towns which I looked at.



Glastonbury & South Windsor were attractive to me, but it seemed like they were expensive and above my rental budget (i.e under $1,800).

Because we've never exactly lived in a suburban or rural place before, my wife feels more comfortable being close to amenities such as shopping and medical care. School-wise, we're not sure what to expect, since we're not familiar with public schools at all. We generally don't read too much into school rankings.



So to cut a long story short, Manchester seemed to be suitable - in terms of a 30-minute commute, and proximity to Hartford. My housing visit is coming up and most of the places I'm looking at are in Manchester. We're also looking at a few apartments in Vernon, Ellington, and Mansfield/Storrs. Should I expand my options?



Would love to get your advice and perspective on this.

[htfdcolt]

I'm going to guess based on your note that username that you are of Asian Indian descent? If so, and given your family's preferences & situation, I would not recommend living in Mansfield/Storrs itself, which has a very rural feeling despite the UConn campus.

In terms of shortest commute to Storrs, you'll want to look in Tolland / Vernon (although I can't speak to rental prices). Schools will likely not be a major concern for you initially, which expands your options. Manchester in particular is a hub of shopping (including a branch of the famous Patel Brothers), and would feel much more like "civilization" to a family with your background of having lived in urban areas.

Having said this, you will need to learn how to drive ASAP, especially highway driving, as there are few options to get to Storrs from the eastern suburbs of Hartford. Maybe you can find a rideshare or carpooling arrangement initially, through UConn, while you gain your driving confidence.

[NewJeffCT]

Welcome to Connecticut and Go Huskies!

I agree with above - look at Mansfield/Storrs itself and also look at Tolland, which is right next door. Good schools for your growing 4 year old.

And, practice driving - the area around UConn is hilly in spots and could be difficult in the winter during snowy/icy conditions.

[JayCT]

Welcome. UConn is located in the Storrs section of the Town of Mansfield. Storrs is a small village with some nice shops and restaurants and a number of apartments. The rest of Mansfield is pretty rural though. Storrs would be a good place to start but I’m not sure there are apartments there within you budget.

The closest town with apartments is Vernon. I’d also look there and Manchester. You should be able to find something in your price range in either town. Manchester is bigger and has more amenities including being a regional shopping center. Good luck, Jay

[Stylo]

Unfortunately UCONN area is very limited on public transportation.

CTrail is a nice option that can get you anywhere in the state.

If you were to live in Glastonbury or Manchester, you’d be close enough to it, and a short commute to Storrs. Both towns are good because they have more stuff without having to drive. Vernon/Storrs area is more limited.

[Umeshu]

Thanks for the multiple perspectives, and the warm welcomes!



To add on, we grew up in Hong Kong and moved to Tokyo.



Thanks for the tip on looking for carpooling or ride-sharing options! I think we have a year to convert our Intl Driving License to a CT one. I even thought of looking for an experienced local driver to orientate me. We've never driven in snowy conditions, or had to watch out for animals!


The fun part is that we'll be in CT in the coldest week of winter to look a house

[markfromct]

Manchester is just fine. Look in the Birch Mountain area.

You can be neighbors with Geno Auriemma!