Largest cities in Connecticut

Connecticut, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich colonial history, is a small but densely populated state in the northeastern United States. With a population of approximately 3.6 million, Connecticut ranks as the 29th most populated state in the U.S. The state has experienced stable population growth over the years, maintaining its unique blend of urban and suburban environments. Bordered by New York to the west, Massachusetts to the north, Rhode Island to the east, and the Long Island Sound to the south, Connecticut offers a diverse range of living experiences across its roughly 169 cities and towns.

Living in Connecticut provides residents with access to top-tier education, thriving job markets, and a high standard of living. The state's dense population allows for a vibrant community life, with ample opportunities for cultural, recreational, and social activities. Connecticut's stable population growth supports a robust economy, driven by industries such as finance, insurance, and healthcare. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Connecticut, based on data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, offers insight into Connecticut cities by population, highlighting the state's most significant urban centers.

Bridgeport Population: 145,014 Livability Score: 80

Area Size: 42 KM² Density (sq mi): 9,027 Med. Household Income: $47,484

Bridgeport, CT, known as 'The Park City,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in Fairfield County, Bridgeport is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like New Haven (24 miles) and Stamford (27 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Bridgeport's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

New Haven Population: 130,381 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 48 KM² Density (sq mi): 6,976 Med. Household Income: $44,507

New Haven, CT, known as 'The Elm City,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in New Haven County, New Haven is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Bridgeport (20 miles) and Hartford (40 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. New Haven's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Stamford Population: 130,057 Livability Score: 70

Area Size: 97 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,457 Med. Household Income: $96,885

Stamford, CT, known as 'The City That Works,' offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and modern urban amenities. Located in Fairfield County, Stamford is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like New York City (35 miles) and Bridgeport (20 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Stamford's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Hartford Population: 122,549 Livability Score: 75

Area Size: 45 KM² Density (sq mi): 7,051 Med. Household Income: $36,154

Hartford, Connecticut, known as the "Insurance Capital of the World," is a city rich in history, culture, and economic significance. Located along the Connecticut River, Hartford offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. The city's vibrant arts scene, educational institutions, and strong sense of community make living in Hartford an appealing choice.

Waterbury Population: 107,841 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 74 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,781 Med. Household Income: $46,329

Waterbury, Connecticut, known as "The Brass City," is a historic and vibrant community located near Hartford and New Haven. With its rich industrial heritage, diverse cultural scene, and strong sense of community, Waterbury offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes living in Waterbury an attractive option for families and professionals.

Norwalk Population: 88,755 Livability Score: 75

Area Size: 59 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,878 Med. Household Income: $89,486

Norwalk, CT - The Heart of the Gold Coast"; echo "

Danbury Population: 84,650 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 109 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,014 Med. Household Income: $73,204

Danbury, CT - A City with a Rich History and Modern Appeal"; echo "

New Britain Population: 72,543 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 35 KM² Density (sq mi): 5,415 Med. Household Income: $47,393

West Hartford Population: 63,023 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 57 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,886 Med. Household Income: $105,230

Bristol Population: 60,039 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 68 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,274 Med. Household Income: $68,485

Full list of the largest cities in Connecticut

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Bridgeport	145,014	42	$47,484	80
2	New Haven	130,381	48	$44,507	78
3	Stamford	130,057	97	$96,885	70
4	Hartford	122,549	45	$36,154	75
5	Waterbury	107,841	74	$46,329	77
6	Norwalk	88,755	59	$89,486	75
7	Danbury	84,650	109	$73,204	76
8	New Britain	72,543	35	$47,393	73
9	West Hartford	63,023	57	$105,230	78
10	Bristol	60,039	68	$68,485	79
11	Meriden	59,512	62	$58,472	82
12	West Haven	54,666	28	$64,255	80
13	Milford city	52,902	57	$95,785	88
14	Stratford	52,300	45	$69,336	74
15	East Hartford	50,036	47	$59,954	70
16	Middletown	46,406	106	$62,022	79
17	Shelton	41,162	79	$98,873	76
18	Norwich	39,112	73	$57,565	79
19	Trumbull	36,477	60	$112,674	74
20	Manchester	35,946	17	$61,631	74
21	Torrington	34,259	103	$60,662	74
22	Naugatuck	31,201	42	$77,967	75
23	Newington	30,114	34	$82,721	77
24	East Haven	28,645	32	$67,773	67
25	Westport	27,511	52	$166,307	66
26	New London	27,001	15	$47,424	72
27	Wethersfield	26,068	32	$90,881	76
28	North Haven	23,665	54	$104,812	75
29	Darien	21,519	33	$208,125	70
30	Wallingford Center	18,948	19	$72,589	78
31	Ansonia	18,709	16	$53,709	68
32	Willimantic	18,669	11	$35,630	85
33	Storrs	16,392	14	$25,586	81
34	Orange	13,928	44	$129,489	74
35	Greenwich	12,967	11	$115,885	80
36	Windsor Locks	12,732	23	$72,090	73
37	Derby	12,420	13	$58,534	71
38	Bethel	10,839	11	$64,800	79
39	Kensington	9,685	14	$97,064	79
40	Oakville	9,679	8	$75,845	69
41	Conning Towers Nautilus Park	9,606	13	$61,806	62
42	Groton	8,999	8	$51,941	69
43	Riverside	8,855	6	$235,893	77
44	Thompsonville	8,563	5	$50,417	68
45	Glastonbury Center	8,483	12	$89,375	80
46	Southwood Acres	8,352	11	$96,932	71
47	Long Hill	8,315	4	$109,145	76
48	Ridgefield	7,228	17	$136,094	78
49	Putnam	7,138	8	$61,411	64
50	Rockville	7,084	4	$43,412	71

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Connecticut, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.