Stamford, CT is well known for being a gorgeous New England city along the water. Located around 30 miles outside of New York City, Stamford offers close proximity to a major city while offering a calm suburban environment for people who want a bit more space to raise a family. It is truly the crown jewel of Fairfield County, CT due to its population growth, business growth, and redevelopment efforts. More importantly, It’s clean and safe with excellent schools and a relatively bustling downtown area. It’s no surprise that so many people move to Stamford from singles and young professionals to families and it is considered one of the best places to live in the United States.
If you’re thinking about moving to Stamford, check out the guide below for more info on living in this excellent city. And once you’re ready, make sure to give us a call for your Stamford move.
Stamford is Connected to Everywhere
If you want easy access to anywhere you can imagine, you might want to consider living in Stamford. The city is connected to 4 interstate highways, plus the I-95, which runs all the way from New England to Florida. You can also catch a Metro-North train into Manhattan, or an Amtrak to any one of dozens of American destinations. CT Transit provides a range of bus services within the city and regionally. If you’re staying within the city limits, you don’t even need to bring your car as Stamford is very walkable, particularly Harbor Point, East Side, and the Downtown Historic District.
Want to go even further? It’s easy to enjoy a trip anywhere in the world from Stamford, which is close to 5 different airports, including Bradley International Airport.
The Summers in Stamford are Musical
Every Thursday during the summer, Downtown Stamford hosts Alive@Five in Columbus Park. Starting at 5PM, you can join in the party, as long as you’re 21 or older. The concert series features both regional and national acts, and tickets cost just $20. Who played at Alive@Five in 2023? Just amazing artists like Ashanti, Lil’ John, and more.
You can Travel by Trolley
Stamford is one of the few cities out there where you commute to work while riding on a trolley. The Harbor Point Trolley runs every day, and is free to ride! Making a 30-minute loop around the city, you can choose between 14 stops to get to your destination. Major destination stops include the Fairway Market, UConn’s Stamford campus, and the Ferguson Library. The trolley adds a unique charm to the city’s transportation system and makes getting around Stamford a breeze.
Where to Live in Stamford, CT
When looking for the best neighborhood in Stamford, you’ll have plenty of wonderful places to choose from. Some of the best places to live in Stamford, CT include Springdale, Glenbrook, and Shippan Point. Springdale is a great choice if you want to get that “small-town” feeling, while staying close to the action of the city. Glenbrook is more urban, with a pretty even split between homeowners and renters. Shippan, which encompasses Shippan Point, is a peninsula extending from the city onto the Long Island Sound. If you’re looking for gorgeous homes near the water, Shippan Point might be the perfect Stamford neighborhood for you.
Of course, living in Downtown Stamford is also an option, and a great one at that! The downtown area is the beating heart of the city, bustling with a wide array of entertainment options, dining establishments, and cultural attractions. From trendy restaurants and lively bars to art galleries and theaters, Downtown Stamford offers a diverse range of experiences for residents to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking a night out on the town or a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, living in downtown Stamford ensures that you’ll have easy access to an exciting urban environment.
Another advantage of living in Downtown Stamford is the easy commute. Many of the city’s major employers, financial institutions, and corporate headquarters are located in or near the downtown area. This proximity means that residents can benefit from shorter commute times, avoiding long hours spent on the road or public transportation. The accessibility to employment opportunities makes downtown Stamford an appealing choice for professionals and individuals seeking a seamless work-life balance.
When planning your move to Stamford, take the time to explore the various neighborhoods, including Downtown Stamford, to find the one that aligns with your lifestyle preferences. Consider factors such as proximity to amenities, transportation options, and the overall atmosphere of each neighborhood. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs and ensures a fulfilling living experience in the vibrant city of Stamford.
Schools in Stamford
If there is one thing that Stamford has a lot of, it’s school options. There are 93 schools in Stamford, including 69 private schools and 22 public school districts. The Academy of Information Technology and Engineering is one of the highest rated schools in Stamford. Called a “Magnet School,” this public school in Stamford offers state-of-the-art technology to students, along with concentrations in Architecture & Engineering, Information Technology, Business, Biomedical Sciences and more.
Of course, quantity doesn’t always mean quality. Luckily, the majority of schools in Stamford have a very high rating with many kids going to attend top universities around the United States. Stamford takes pride in its education system and offers plenty of extracurricular activities to keep students busy after class. Whether you have young children or teenagers, Stamford has a range of educational opportunities to support their growth and development.
Stamford Jobs
Working in Stamford offers a plethora of possibilities in many industries. The median household income in Stamford is $81,634. Jobs here are flourishing and growing with an unemployment rate in Stamford at just 3.7%, and jobs grew 3.85% between 2015 and 2016. Stamford is also home to eight Fortune 500 companies, Charter Communications, Synchrony Financial, United Rentals, Gartner, Pitney Bowes, Silgan Holdings, Crane Co, and Hexcel.
There are plenty of different industries to choose from as well. If you’re in the finance world, UBS and the Bank of America have an office in the area. Besides that, there are dozens of hedge funds, asset managers, and trading houses in and around the city, making it one of the largest financial districts in the New York Metro outside of New York City.
If you’re more into digital media, Stamford has plenty of options to choose from including CBS Interactive, A+E Networks, YES Network, Meredith Corporation and more. Make sure to update your resume if you’re looking for work in Stamford.
Stamfor’s one-way commute averages around 27 minutes, which is slightly longer than the national average of 26 minutes. The majority of residents drive to work although almost 15% take mass transit.
Of course, if you’re more of an entrepreneur, living in Stamford, CT has its perks. Its proximity to New York City and other key areas in the Tri-State area make it an excellent location to attract NYC commuters. Business taxes are also some of the lowest in the US with corporations having to pay only 7.5 percent of net income compared to 21 percent in other regions. Finally, small businesses make up around 97 percent of Connecticut’s total businesses and help create numerous jobs and encourage economic growth.
The Cost of Living in Stamford
Living in Stamford is a more expensive choice than many other areas in America. The cost of living in Stamford is greater than the national average in every single category, from healthcare, to groceries, to utilities earning a 118.5 on the cost of living index in contrast to the average of 100. Homes in Stamford are especially expensive; the cost of a house in Stamford is 143% higher than the national average. You’ll be hard–pressed to find a house in Stamford that’s selling for less than $250,000, and more than 50% of homes here sell for more than $500,000.
Property taxes in Stamford are similarly expensive, with most people living in Stamford paying more than $3,000 per year in property taxes. Fairfield County assesses a property tax rate of 1.73%, which is higher than the national average but surprisingly lower than other Connecticut counties which can reach up to 2.067%. The high property taxes and expensive home prices are a few reasons why only about half the Stamford population owns their homes. Rent, though also expensive, does offer a break from some of the costs of living in Stamford.
Not everyone has the ability to buy a house and pay for property taxes. Luckily, living in Stamford isn’t impossible as there are plenty of rental options on the market. On first glance, the prices might seem comparable to New York City, but you get a lot more space for what you’re paying. The median rental price is around $1,895 for a one-bedroom and $2,370 for a 2-bedroom. However, you can pay more or less depending on the area and type of apartment. Luxury apartments can cost over $5,000! In general, the closer you get to the water, the more expensive the rents.
Most people living in Stamford own 2 cars, and have an average commute of most 26 minutes. Gas costs more than 13% higher than the national average here and considering that goods and services are 22% more expensive in Stamford than the American average, we can assume the price of cars and other transportation needs are also high. Before you move to Stamford, make sure that you’ll be able to afford living in this affluent city.
Safety and Crime
When considering a move to Stamford, CT, safety is undoubtedly a significant concern for individuals and families. The city has made remarkable strides in maintaining a safe environment for its residents. Stamford’s local government has implemented various proactive measures to ensure public safety, including increased police presence and community engagement initiatives. These efforts have resulted in a significant reduction in crime rates over the years, providing peace of mind to those considering a move to Stamford. When compared to other cities in the nation, Stamford is one the safest places to live.
Stamford’s commitment to safety extends beyond law enforcement. The city prioritizes infrastructure development and maintenance, ensuring well-lit streets, well-maintained parks, and safe neighborhoods. Additionally, Stamford has established an active neighborhood watch program that encourages residents to actively participate in safeguarding their communities. This collaborative approach between residents, local authorities, and city officials has created a strong sense of security and unity within Stamford, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a safe and secure place to call home.
Stamford Demographics
Wondering how many people live in Stamford? The answer is over 127,000 people! The median age in Stamford is 36.4, but there are a good amount of folks in every age bracket, except 60-64, which makes up just 3.4% of the Stamford population. Stamford also has a relatively high number of non-citizens, making up more than 20% of the population.
Although white people are the largest bracket of Stamford residents, at 49.6%, Stamford is a very diverse city! 26.5% of Stamford residents are Hispanic, 14% are Black, and 8% are Asian. Additionally, about 23% of people living in Stamford speak Spanish. A majority of folks in Stamford are married, and 47% of the Stamford population has kids under 18. People in Stamford are also well-educated, with 9 out of 10 Stamford residents having finished high school, and nearly half of the population having received a Bachelor’s Degree or higher.
Stamford Weather
Wondering what the weather is like in Stamford, CT? Stamford is classed as a temperature climate. Summers in Stamford are hot and muggy, while winters are very cold and often snowy. The average temperature in Stamford is 74 degrees during warming months, and 46 degrees during the colder months. Stamford also receives an average of 31 inches of snow per year, often in large amounts during storms called Nor’Easters. Stamford gets about 51 inches of rain and 30 inches of snow per year, both of which are higher than the national average of 38 inches and 28 inches respectively.
While not frequent, as the city is along the water, it can be affected by tropical cyclones with the most recent one being Hurricane Sandy back in 2012. Still, these don’t happen very often. Instead, you’ll experience more thunderstorms during the summer months in June, July, and August.
The weather in Stamford offers a balance of warm summers and crisp winters, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and seasonal festivities. Whether you enjoy hiking in the colorful autumn forests or skiing in nearby mountain resorts during the winter, Stamford’s climate allows for a variety of recreational pursuits throughout the year.
Fun Things to do in Stamford, CT
Looking for things to do in Stamford? The great news is, there is always tons going on in this city. Downtown Stamford hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from amazing concerts to heritage festivals that bring food, art and culture together. During the summer, you can visit Cove Island Park or Cummings Park to enjoy a day at the beach with your family. Other great outdoor activities in Stamford include the Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens, the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation and Caumsett State Park.
If you’re interested in golfing, Stamford is home to Sterling Farms Golf Course and E Gaynor Brennan Golf Course, two municipal courses you can enjoy with friends. Not your thing? You can go to the Italian Center to play tennis, enjoy the swimming pool, or work out in the fitness centers.
Downtown Stamford offers tons of amazing restaurants and boutique shopping options, whether you’re going out with your family, or are on a romantic evening for two. Want to find fun things to do with friends in Stamford? The nightlife here is alive and well, with some great bars and clubs to choose from. Also, if you’re a book lover, or just want to get involved with the Stamford community, stop by the gorgeous Ferguson Library. The library has tons of books and movies to explore, along with fun programs for kids and classes for teens and adults! Ferguson Library also hosts a local TEDx event every year, which you’ll definitely want to check out. You can also enjoy a beautiful evening at the Palace Theater listening to the Stamford Symphony Orchestra or the Connecticut Grand Opera.
For those who want the excitement of the Macy’s Day Parade, but don’t want to schlep all the way to New York City for it, Stamford has their own Thanksgiving Day Parade sponsored by UBS. It has been a local tradition since 1994 and continues to be a fun-filled family event.
Sports fans can also enjoy themselves if they move to Stamford. The city is home to the New England Force, a professional soccer team, and the Connecticut Whale, a female Hockey Team. You can also catch live airings of NBC Sunday Football and Football Night in America in Stamford.
Moving to Stamford
So, is Stamford, Ct a good place to live? That ultimately is up to you. Stamford has a lot to offer from excellent schools to beautiful parks and beaches. The city’s commitment to safety, its robust economy, and the overall quality of life make it an attractive destination for individuals and families alike. If you’re considering a move to Stamford, it’s important to plan your relocation efficiently. For professional assistance with your Stamford move, consider reaching out to Great Moving, a trusted Stamford Movers. With our expertise and reliable services, we can help make your transition to Stamford a seamless and stress-free experience. Contact Great Moving at (718) 407-4137, and our team will be more than happy to address any inquiries you may have and assist you in planning your move to Stamford.
