The exodus from New York City to Connecticut’s shoreline communities continues to accelerate in 2025. Whether you’re seeking more space, better schools, lower costs, or simply a change of pace while maintaining access to Manhattan, Connecticut’s coastal towns offer a compelling alternative to life in the five boroughs.
As a Connecticut REALTOR® who has helped dozens of New York families make this transition, I’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you navigate every aspect of relocating from New York to Connecticut.
Why New Yorkers Are Choosing Connecticut
The trend is undeniable: Connecticut’s shoreline towns are experiencing unprecedented demand from New York residents. Here’s why:
- Space and Value: Significantly more square footage for your money
- Maintained NYC Access: Commute times of 60-90 minutes to Midtown
- Quality of Life: Lower stress, outdoor recreation, community feel
- Top-Rated Schools: Some of the nation’s best public school systems
- Waterfront Living: Access to beaches and Long Island Sound at a fraction of comparable NY costs
- Lower Crime: Dramatically safer communities than NYC
- Remote Work Friendly: Perfect for hybrid schedules and full remote positions
Cost of Living: NYC vs. Connecticut Shoreline
Housing Costs
The difference is stark and often the primary motivator for the move:
New York City (2025 Average)
- Manhattan 2BR Apartment: $5,500-$8,000/month
- Brooklyn 2BR Apartment: $3,800-$5,500/month
- Purchase Price (2BR): $1.2M-$2.5M+
- Property Taxes: $8,000-$25,000/year
Connecticut Shoreline (2025 Average)
- Guilford 4BR Home: $2,500-$3,500/month (rental)
- Purchase Price (4BR): $650K-$1.5M
- Property Taxes: $10,000-$18,000/year
- Added Benefit: Yard, garage, multiple bathrooms, and outdoor space
What Your NYC Budget Gets You in CT:
If you’re paying $4,000/month in NYC for a 2-bedroom apartment, that same budget in Connecticut gets you:
- 3,500+ sq ft home
- 4-5 bedrooms
- 2.5-3.5 bathrooms
- 0.5-2 acre lot
- 2-3 car garage
- Waterfront or water views (in many cases)
Daily Living Expenses
Groceries: 10-15% less expensive in CT Dining Out: 20-30% less expensive (fine dining comparable) Transportation:
- NYC: $2,900/year MetroCard + occasional Uber
- CT: $1,200/year gas + $200 tolls + car insurance ($1,500/year average)
- Parking: FREE in CT vs. $300-$600/month in NYC
Entertainment:
- NYC: Broadway, museums, concerts (premium pricing)
- CT: Local theaters, community events, outdoor recreation (significantly lower cost)
Childcare/Education:
- NYC Private School: $35,000-$60,000/year per child
- CT Public Schools: FREE (top-rated systems)
- NYC Daycare: $25,000-$40,000/year
- CT Daycare: $15,000-$22,000/year
Annual Savings Estimate
A family of four moving from a 2BR NYC apartment ($60K/year rent) to a comparable mortgage in CT can expect to save:
- Housing: $8,000-$15,000/year
- Transportation: $1,500-$3,000/year
- Groceries & Daily Expenses: $3,000-$5,000/year
- Private Education (if applicable): $70,000-$120,000/year for 2 children
Total Potential Savings: $12,500-$143,000/year
Tax Implications: CT vs. NY
This is complex and situation-dependent, but here are the key differences:
State Income Tax
New York State: 4% - 10.9% (progressive rates) New York City: Additional 3.078% - 3.876% for NYC residents Connecticut: 3% - 6.99% (progressive rates)
For NYC residents earning $150K/year:
- NYC Total Tax: ~$8,500 (state + city)
- CT Total Tax: ~$6,200 (state only)
- Annual Savings: ~$2,300
Property Taxes
Reality Check: Connecticut property taxes are higher than NYC when compared dollar-for-dollar, BUT:
- You own significantly more property
- Better funded schools and services
- Lower overall housing costs offset the higher tax rate
Example:
- NYC Co-op ($800K): $12,000/year property tax
- CT Home ($800K in Guilford): $15,000/year property tax
- CT Home is 3x the size with yard and parking
Sales Tax
- New York: 8.875% (combined state + NYC)
- Connecticut: 6.35%
- Savings: 2.5% on all purchases
Estate Tax
Both states have estate taxes, with similar exemption thresholds (~$6-7M). Consult with a tax professional for high-net-worth considerations.
Commuting to NYC from Connecticut
One of the biggest concerns for relocating families is the commute. Here’s the reality by region:
Metro-North Railroad (Best Option for Most)
New Haven Line (Coastal Route)
Fairfield County (Shortest Commutes):
- Greenwich to Grand Central: 45-55 minutes
- Darien to Grand Central: 55-65 minutes
- New Canaan to Grand Central: 60 minutes
- Westport to Grand Central: 55-65 minutes
- Fairfield to Grand Central: 60-70 minutes
New Haven County Shoreline (Mid-Range):
- Milford to Grand Central: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Branford to Grand Central: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Madison to Grand Central: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Guilford to Grand Central: 1 hour 45 minutes
Eastern Shoreline (Longest):
- Old Saybrook to Grand Central: 2 hours
- Clinton to Grand Central: 2 hours
- Westbrook to Grand Central: 2+ hours
Monthly Pass Costs (2025):
- Fairfield County zones: $380-$480/month
- New Haven County zones: $512-$560/month
- Eastern shoreline zones: $560-$620/month
- Parking at station: $75-$150/month
- Total with parking: $455-$770/month depending on zone
Commute Experience:
- Free WiFi on trains
- Quiet cars available
- Spacious seating
- Productive work time
- Bar cars on some trains
- Far less stressful than NYC subway
- Can work, read, or relax
Driving
I-95 Corridor:
- Fairfield County to Midtown: 1-1.5 hours (traffic dependent)
- New Haven County to Midtown: 1.5-2 hours
- Peak tolls (varies by route): $15-$25 each way
- Parking in NYC: $35-$60/day
- Not recommended for daily commute
- Great for: Weekend trips, off-peak travel, flexibility
Merritt Parkway (Scenic Alternative):
- Northern Fairfield County towns
- No trucks, more scenic
- Similar times to I-95
- Connects to Hutchinson River Parkway
Northern Connecticut (Not Practical for NYC Commute)
West Hartford, Glastonbury, Simsbury, etc.:
- 2+ hours each way by car
- No direct Metro-North access
- Only viable for fully remote workers
- These towns work for Hartford commuters, not NYC
Hybrid/Remote Work (Most Common Solution)
The ideal scenario for most NYC transplants:
- 2-3 days in NYC office (via Metro-North)
- 2-3 days remote from CT
- Flexible schedule avoiding peak hours
- Significantly improved quality of life
Work Arrangement Recommendations by Region:
Fairfield County: Can support 4-5 days/week in-office New Haven Shoreline: Best with 2-3 days/week in-office Eastern Shoreline: Best with 1 day/week or fully remote Northern CT: Fully remote only
Real Talk from Residents:
- “More productive on the train than I ever was on the subway”
- “Worth every minute for what we gain in Connecticut”
- “With remote flexibility, it’s completely manageable”
- “I use commute time to read, plan my day, or just decompress”
- “The longer commute was my biggest concern, but hybrid schedule makes it a non-issue”
Lifestyle Changes: What to Expect
Pace of Life
NYC: 24/7, fast-paced, always something happening CT Shoreline: Slower, seasonal rhythms, community-focused
Adjustment Period: 3-6 months for most families to fully adapt and appreciate the change
Car Dependency
Critical: You WILL need a car in Connecticut. Most families have 2 vehicles.
- Grocery stores: 5-10 minute drive
- Restaurants: 5-15 minute drive
- Schools: Often walkable or short drive
- Train station: 5-10 minute drive
Upside: Free parking everywhere, no circling blocks, no alternate side parking rules
Social Life & Community
NYC: Anonymous, transient, diverse CT: Tight-knit, multi-generational families, community events
Making Friends:
- Join local clubs (yacht clubs, beach clubs, sports leagues)
- School communities are very social
- Town events and festivals
- Churches and community organizations
- Much easier with children
Outdoor Recreation
This is where Connecticut truly shines:
Beach Access:
- Private beach associations in most shoreline neighborhoods
- Long Island Sound swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding
- Significantly less crowded than NYC beaches
Hiking & Nature:
- Countless trails and preserves
- State parks within 15-20 minutes
- No subway required to reach nature
Boating:
- Affordable marina slips
- Yacht clubs with family amenities
- Easy access to islands and coves
Four Seasons:
- True fall foliage
- Winter activities (skiing 2 hours north)
- Spring blooms in your own yard
- Summer beach lifestyle
Dining & Culture
What You’ll Miss:
- 24-hour everything
- Cutting-edge restaurants
- Broadway shows
- World-class museums
- Diverse international cuisine options
What You’ll Gain:
- Farm-to-table dining
- Waterfront restaurants
- Local wineries and breweries
- Community theater
- Yale University cultural offerings (New Haven - 20 minutes)
The Balance: Many NYC transplants keep memberships to NYC museums and make monthly trips for culture while enjoying quieter daily life.
Schools: CT vs. NYC
For families with children, this is often the deciding factor. Connecticut consistently ranks among the top states for public education.
Connecticut Public School Quality by Region
Top-Tier Districts (GreatSchools 9-10/10):
Fairfield County:
- Darien Public Schools (often #1 in CT)
- New Canaan Public Schools
- Weston Public Schools
- Westport Public Schools
- Ridgefield Public Schools
Northern/Central CT:
- West Hartford Public Schools
- Glastonbury Public Schools
- Simsbury Public Schools
- Avon Public Schools
- Farmington Public Schools
Excellent Districts (GreatSchools 8-9/10):
Fairfield County:
- Greenwich Public Schools
- Fairfield Public Schools
- Trumbull Public Schools
New Haven County Shoreline:
- Madison Public Schools (Daniel Hand HS - Top 5% nationally)
- Guilford Public Schools (Top 10% nationally)
- Cheshire Public Schools
Eastern Shoreline:
- Old Saybrook Public Schools
- Essex/Chester/Deep River Regional
Very Good Districts (GreatSchools 7-8/10):
New Haven County:
- Branford Public Schools
- North Haven Public Schools
- Hamden Public Schools (certain neighborhoods)
Milford Public Schools: 6-8/10 (varies significantly by elementary zone)
Key Statistics: CT vs. NYC
Connecticut Average (Top Districts):
- GreatSchools Rating: 8-10/10
- Student-teacher ratio: 11-13:1
- College attendance rate: 90-98%
- AP/IB course availability: Extensive
- Per-pupil spending: $18,000-$25,000/year
- Class sizes: 18-22 students
NYC Public School Average:
- GreatSchools Rating: 5-6/10 (wide variance)
- Student-teacher ratio: 18:1
- College attendance rate: 60-75%
- AP course availability: Limited (selective schools only)
- Per-pupil spending: $28,000/year (but larger classes)
- Class sizes: 25-30+ students
The Financial Reality
NYC Private School:
- Tuition: $40,000-$65,000/year per child
- Application fees, donations, extras: $5,000-$10,000/year
- Total for 2 children K-12: $1.2M-$1.95M
CT Public School:
- Tuition: $0 (funded through property taxes)
- Some towns have nominal fees for activities: $200-$500/year
- Total for 2 children K-12: $5,000-$13,000
Net Savings Over 13 Years: $1.2M-$1.95M
This savings alone can pay for Ivy League college tuition or fund retirement.
School Amenities in Connecticut
Facilities:
- Modern buildings with AC (unlike many NYC schools)
- Full athletic facilities on campus (tracks, fields, pools)
- Performing arts centers and auditoriums
- State-of-the-art STEM labs
- Spacious cafeterias
- Ample parking for student drivers
Programs:
- Extensive AP and honors courses
- Strong STEM programs and robotics
- Excellent music and arts (better funding than NYC)
- Competitive athletics with proper facilities
- Sailing, rowing, and water sports (shoreline towns)
- Community service requirements
- College counseling with better ratios
Class Sizes:
- Elementary: 15-20 students
- Middle School: 18-22 students
- High School: 20-25 students
Private School Options in CT
For families still preferring private education, Connecticut offers excellent boarding and day schools at lower costs than NYC:
Elite Prep Schools:
- Choate Rosemary Hall (Wallingford)
- Hopkins School (New Haven)
- Brunswick School (Greenwich)
- Greenwich Academy (Greenwich)
- Taft School (Watertown)
Tuition: $30,000-$50,000 (less than NYC equivalents)
Best Connecticut Areas for NYC Transplants
Connecticut offers diverse options for New York relocators. Your choice depends on priorities like commute time, budget, lifestyle preferences, and community character. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown by region:
Fairfield County (The Gold Coast)
Best For: Shortest commute, luxury lifestyle, proximity to NYC amenities
Overview: Connecticut’s wealthiest county, directly accessible via Metro-North New Haven Line and located closest to New York City. These towns offer the most cosmopolitan feel outside of NYC.
Key Towns:
Greenwich
- Commute: 45-55 minutes to Grand Central
- Housing: $1M-$20M+ (highest prices in CT)
- Vibe: Ultra-luxury, international community, hedge fund executives
- Schools: Excellent public schools, many private school options
- Highlights: Greenwich Avenue shopping, waterfront estates, country clubs
Darien
- Commute: 55-65 minutes to Grand Central
- Housing: $800K-$10M+
- Vibe: Family-oriented, preppy New England, tight-knit community
- Schools: Top-ranked public schools (consistently #1-2 in CT)
- Highlights: Two private beach associations, Tokeneke Club
New Canaan
- Commute: 60 minutes to Grand Central
- Housing: $700K-$8M+
- Vibe: Quintessential New England village, highly educated demographic
- Schools: Outstanding public schools
- Highlights: Charming downtown, mid-century modern architecture hub
Westport
- Commute: 55-65 minutes to Grand Central
- Housing: $600K-$15M+
- Vibe: Artsy, progressive, celebrity residents, beach culture
- Schools: Excellent public schools, strong arts programs
- Highlights: Compo Beach, Longshore Club, vibrant arts scene
Fairfield
- Commute: 60-70 minutes to Grand Central
- Housing: $450K-$6M+
- Vibe: More affordable Gold Coast option, beach town feel
- Schools: Strong public schools
- Highlights: Multiple beach communities, Fairfield University
Pros: Shortest commute, highest property values (good investment), most NYC-like amenities, excellent schools
Cons: Highest cost of living in CT, more competitive social environment, can feel like NYC suburbs rather than “real Connecticut”
New Haven County Shoreline
Best For: Balance of affordability and quality, authentic New England character, waterfront value
Overview: Mid-distance commute (1.5-2 hours) with significantly better value than Fairfield County. These towns offer true coastal Connecticut character with historic downtowns, accessible beaches, and strong communities.
Key Towns:
Guilford
- Commute: 1 hour 45 minutes to Grand Central
- Housing: $500K-$15M+ (Sachem Head waterfront)
- Vibe: Historic New England, largest town green in New England, arts community
- Schools: Top-rated (8-9/10), Guilford High consistently ranked nationally
- Highlights: Colonial architecture, farm-to-table dining, access to Thimble Islands
Madison
- Commute: 1 hour 40 minutes to Grand Central
- Housing: $650K-$8M+
- Vibe: Upscale family-oriented, pristine beaches, tight-knit community
- Schools: Excellent (8-9/10), Daniel Hand High School top 5% nationally
- Highlights: Hammonasset State Park, Madison Beach, town green shops
Branford
- Commute: 1 hour 30 minutes to Grand Central
- Housing: $400K-$3M+
- Vibe: Authentic coastal town, diverse neighborhoods, boating culture
- Schools: Very good (7-8/10)
- Highlights: Thimble Islands, Pine Orchard Yacht Club, multiple harbors
Milford
- Commute: 1 hour 25 minutes to Grand Central
- Housing: $350K-$4M+
- Vibe: Small city feel, more diverse, accessible waterfront
- Schools: Good (6-8/10 depending on neighborhood)
- Highlights: Connecticut Post Mall area shopping, multiple beach communities
Pros: Authentic New England character, excellent value for waterfront, less competitive than Fairfield County, strong schools, genuine community feel
Cons: Longer commute, fewer luxury amenities than Gold Coast, more car-dependent
Note: As a REALTOR® specializing in this region, I can provide detailed insights into these communities.
Eastern Connecticut Shoreline
Best For: Quieter lifestyle, lower costs, authentic coastal villages, art/culture scene
Overview: Farther from NYC (2+ hour commute) but offers exceptional value, quintessential New England coastal living, and less crowded beaches.
Key Towns:
Old Saybrook
- Commute: 2 hours to Grand Central
- Housing: $350K-$4M+
- Vibe: Historic seaport, laid-back, seasonal tourism
- Highlights: Connecticut River meets Long Island Sound, charming downtown, Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center
Clinton
- Commute: 2 hours to Grand Central
- Housing: $300K-$2M+
- Vibe: Family beach town, more affordable shoreline option
- Highlights: Clinton Crossing outlets, town beach
Westbrook
- Commute: 2+ hours to Grand Central
- Housing: $300K-$3M+
- Vibe: Quiet coastal living, beach associations
- Highlights: Multiple beach communities, lower property taxes
Essex
- Commute: 2+ hours (limited train access)
- Housing: $400K-$3M+
- Vibe: Picture-perfect New England river town, yachting culture
- Highlights: Connecticut River Museum, Griswold Inn (1776), extremely charming downtown
Pros: Lower costs, less crowded, authentic New England villages, excellent value
Cons: Long/impractical commute to NYC (best for remote workers), fewer amenities, smaller school systems
Northern/Central Connecticut
Best For: Remote workers, Hartford commuters, excellent schools without coastal premiums, more land
Overview: No direct beach access but offers sophisticated suburbs, larger properties, excellent schools, and proximity to Hartford for employment.
Key Towns:
West Hartford
- Commute: 2+ hours to NYC (not practical for daily commute)
- Housing: $300K-$2M+
- Vibe: Cosmopolitan suburb, walkable centers, highly educated demographic
- Schools: Outstanding (9/10), consistently top-ranked in CT
- Highlights: Blue Back Square, excellent dining, cultural diversity, University of Hartford
Glastonbury
- Commute: 2+ hours to NYC (not practical)
- Housing: $350K-$1.5M+
- Vibe: Affluent suburb, family-oriented, spacious properties
- Schools: Excellent (8-9/10)
- Highlights: Large lots, rural feel with suburban amenities, Connecticut River access
Simsbury
- Commute: 2+ hours to NYC
- Housing: $350K-$2M+
- Vibe: Rural elegance, equestrian community, small-town charm
- Schools: Top-rated (9/10)
- Highlights: Farmington Valley, Talcott Mountain, larger properties
Avon
- Commute: 2+ hours to NYC
- Housing: $350K-$2.5M+
- Vibe: Upscale suburban, corporate headquarters nearby
- Schools: Excellent (9/10)
- Highlights: Avon Old Farms (prep school), beautiful properties, good value
Farmington
- Commute: 2+ hours to NYC
- Housing: $300K-$3M+
- Vibe: Historic town center, Miss Porter’s School, sophisticated
- Schools: Excellent (8-9/10)
- Highlights: Farmington Valley, larger lots, cultural amenities
Pros: More space for money, excellent schools, sophisticated communities, larger lots, lower costs than shoreline
Cons: No beach access, not practical for NYC commute (remote work only), colder winters, more car-dependent
Litchfield County (Northwest Hills)
Best For: Remote workers seeking rural luxury, weekend/vacation homes, outdoor enthusiasts, privacy
Overview: Connecticut’s most rural and scenic area. Rolling hills, lakes, farms, and extremely affluent weekend communities. Not for NYC commuters.
Key Towns:
Washington/Washington Depot
- Housing: $500K-$8M+
- Vibe: Ultra-private, celebrity hideaway, rural luxury estates
- Highlights: Mayflower Inn, Steep Rock Preserve, antique shopping
Kent
- Housing: $300K-$3M+
- Vibe: Artist colony, outdoor recreation, scenic beauty
- Highlights: Kent Falls, hiking, galleries, Appalachian Trail
Salisbury/Lakeville
- Housing: $400K-$10M+
- Vibe: Prep school area (Hotchkiss, Salisbury School), lake estates
- Highlights: Lake living, skiing nearby, rural elegance
Pros: Maximum privacy, stunning natural beauty, large properties, peaceful lifestyle
Cons: Not commutable to NYC, limited amenities, harsh winters, small town living
Choosing Your Connecticut Region: Decision Framework
Choose Fairfield County If:
- Commute is 3+ days per week
- Budget is $800K+
- You want luxury amenities and services
- You prefer cosmopolitan lifestyle
- Shortest commute is priority #1
Choose New Haven County Shoreline If:
- You can work remote 2-3 days per week
- You want authentic New England + beaches
- Budget is $400K-$2M
- You value community over convenience
- You want waterfront access at better value
Choose Eastern Shoreline If:
- You work mostly/fully remote
- Budget is $300K-$800K
- You want quiet coastal living
- Commute doesn’t matter
- You prioritize relaxed lifestyle
Choose Northern/Central CT If:
- You work fully remote
- You don’t need beach access
- You want maximum space/land
- Budget is $300K-$800K
- You prioritize top schools and value
Choose Litchfield County If:
- You work fully remote
- You want rural luxury and privacy
- You love outdoor activities
- Budget is flexible ($500K+)
- You don’t need urban amenities
Step-by-Step Moving Timeline
6-12 Months Before Move
- Research CT towns and visit multiple times (different seasons)
- Understand CT property taxes and budget accordingly
- Consult with tax advisor on implications
- Start saving for down payment (if buying)
- Test the commute during your work hours
3-6 Months Before Move
- Get pre-approved for mortgage (CT lenders preferred)
- Hire a local CT REALTOR® familiar with NYC transplants
- Visit schools and meet administrators
- Research car insurance and get quotes
- Plan for 2-car household needs
2-3 Months Before Move
- Make offer on home or secure rental
- Arrange home inspection (thorough, including septic if applicable)
- Research local doctors, dentists, veterinarians
- Plan moving logistics (less stressful than NYC move!)
- Update address with employers, banks, subscriptions
1 Month Before Move
- Transfer utilities (much simpler than NYC)
- Register children for school
- Get Connecticut driver’s license (60 days after establishing residency)
- Register vehicles in CT
- Research local activities and clubs
- Join community Facebook groups
First Month in Connecticut
- Explore your new town thoroughly
- Introduce yourself to neighbors
- Find your coffee shop, pizza place, go-to restaurants
- Join beach/yacht club if available
- Establish routines for commuting days
- Give yourself grace for the adjustment period
Common Concerns Addressed
”Will I Be Bored?”
Reality: Your lifestyle will be different, not boring.
- More home-based entertaining
- Outdoor activities replace some urban activities
- Community events and local culture
- NYC remains accessible for cultural fixes
- Many find the slower pace rejuvenating, not boring
”What About Diversity?”
Reality: CT shoreline towns are less diverse than NYC, but increasingly multicultural.
- Growing diversity in all towns
- International communities present
- Progressive attitudes in most shoreline communities
- NYC’s diversity remains accessible via train
”Can I Maintain My NYC Friend Group?”
Reality: Requires effort, but many do successfully.
- Monthly NYC visits for social time
- Video calls and staying connected digitally
- Inviting friends to your CT home (they’ll love visiting!)
- Making new local friends doesn’t mean losing old ones
”What If I Hate It?”
Reality: Very few move back to NYC, but you’re not locked in.
- Rent first if uncertain (1-year lease to test)
- CT real estate is liquid - homes sell well
- Worst case: You tried something new
- Statistics: 85-90% of NYC transplants stay long-term
Financial Checklist for the Move
One-Time Moving Costs
- Moving company: $3,000-$8,000 (much easier than NYC moves!)
- Home inspection: $500-$800
- Attorney fees (CT uses attorneys, not just title companies): $1,500-$2,500
- First year property tax adjustment: Variable
- Home furnishings (you’ll have more space!): $5,000-$20,000+
Ongoing New Expenses
- Two cars: $600-$1,200/month (payments + insurance + gas)
- Train pass (if commuting): $512/month
- Home maintenance: $200-$500/month average
- Lawn care: $100-$300/month (seasonal)
- Snow removal: $500-$1,500/winter
Expenses You’ll Eliminate
- NYC rent/mortgage (swap for CT housing)
- Parking: $300-$600/month savings
- Private school: $35K-$60K/year per child savings
- Constant Ubers/taxis: $200-$500/month savings
- Premium grocery costs: $200-$400/month savings
Working with a REALTOR® Who Understands NYC Transplants
The relocation from NYC to Connecticut has unique considerations. You need a REALTOR® who:
Understands Your Timeline:
- NYC lease cycles
- Coordinating NYC sale with CT purchase
- Remote closings when necessary
Knows What You Value:
- Walkability (rare in CT, but exists)
- Train accessibility
- School quality above all
- Community feel
Can Translate:
- “This is like the Upper West Side of Guilford”
- Square footage expectations (you need more than you think!)
- Town personalities and which matches your style
Provides Resources:
- Connects you with NYC transplant families
- Recommends schools, pediatricians, activities
- Helps with the cultural transition
- Available for questions beyond real estate
Conclusion: Is the Move Right for You?
Moving from New York to Connecticut is a significant lifestyle change, but for the right family or individual, it offers tremendous benefits:
You Should Strongly Consider CT If:
- You have or are planning to have children
- You value outdoor space and recreation
- You can work remotely 2+ days per week
- You’re priced out of NYC homeownership
- You want significantly more space
- You’re seeking a slower pace of life
- You prioritize excellent public schools
You Should Probably Stay in NYC If:
- You require daily in-office presence
- You hate driving and won’t own a car
- You thrive on 24/7 urban energy
- Your career requires NYC in-person networking
- You’d feel isolated in a quieter setting
- You rely heavily on NYC’s cultural institutions daily
The Bottom Line:
Connecticut’s shoreline offers NYC refugees an incredible quality of life upgrade: more space, better schools, outdoor recreation, and significant cost savings, all while maintaining reasonable access to Manhattan for work and culture.
The commute is real. The lifestyle change is significant. But for thousands of New York families who’ve made the move, Connecticut has become home – and they can’t imagine going back.
Ready to explore Connecticut’s shoreline communities? Contact Seth Hershman for expert guidance in your relocation journey. Call (203) 555-0123 or email seth@ctluxurymarket.com.
Disclaimer: Tax information provided is general guidance. Consult with a tax professional for advice specific to your situation. Market statistics and prices reflect 2025 market conditions and are subject to change.