Is Norwalk, CT, a Good Place to Live? A Comprehensive Guide

Think beaches, fresh seafood shacks, culture, and amenities. Perhaps you’ve longed for easy access to the typical buzz of New York City at a more relaxed pace or without having to live there. Norwalk, CT, is just a short commute away. 

Couched in the southside of Fairfield County, Oyster Town has the charm of a coastal city and just the right blend of pizzazz for you. 

Besides all these, is Norwalk, CT, a good place to live? Is it simply a vacation destination, or could you pitch your tent here? 

Brace up! 

In this article, you’re about to explore the good, the not-so-bad, and everything in between about living in Norwalk.

Cost of Living

While Norwalk’s charm is undeniable, it’s no secret that living here comes with a hefty price tag. The Norwalk, CT, cost of living is 23% higher than the national average.

What about food? You still have to pay about 7% more than the national average to bring home some of your favorite groceries. 

You should also expect to run up an average bill of $235.35 monthly for energy, while phone bills can cost upwards of $240 per month.

• Housing is 44% higher than the national average
• Utilities are 33% higher than the national average
• Groceries are 7% higher than the national average
• Transportation is 13% higher than the national average

Cost of Living Category	Average Price
Energy Bill/month	$235.35
Phone Bill/month	$253.18
Gas (per gallon)	$3.83
Loaf of Bread	$4.16
Milk (per gallon)	$2.61
Doctor’s visit	$134.90
Dentist visit	$116.39
Optometrist visit	$127.07

 

Any Scoop on Salaries and the Economy?

Between 2020 and 2021, the median household income in Norwalk, CT, grew from $89,486 to $91,434, recording a 2.18% increase. 

Norwalk’s economy thrives in finance, healthcare, retail trading, and technology, presenting many job opportunities. Major players like Fortune 500 Emcor Group, Home Depot, Xerox, and Frontier Communications contribute significantly to its robust employment market.

The median household income is higher than the national average of $76,330 in 2021 and $74,580 in 2022. Although the income inequality index in Connecticut is 0.502, higher than the national average, moving to Norwalk is still a big win. 

For those considering relocation, the strength of the economy and the diverse job market are major attractions. With the assistance of reputable moving companies in Norwalk, CT, transitioning to this vibrant city can be as smooth as your career growth curve.

Norwalk’s Delight: Culture and More 

Norwalk, CT, has a population of approximately 90,000 people, lending to a vibrant and diverse mix of cultures. The ethnic diversity of the residents, which includes Hispanics, Whites, and Blacks, adds flavor to the community. 

The welcoming environment of this city attests to why 84.9% of its residents are U.S. citizens despite its teeming population of immigrants. Moreover, the potpourri of people adds to the city’s cultural vastness. 

Some family-friendly events and festivals showcase the community’s art. For a feel of the international scenery, the farmer’s market fashioned in the European style caters to your inner William Morris with artisan crafts and historic cobblestone structures.

What’s the Deal with the Housing Scene?

The housing market reflects its desirability; with median home prices hovering around $447,200 in 2021, a value 1.83 times higher than the national average of $244,900. Despite this, about 57.1% of Norwalk’s residents are homeowners.

However, renting is still a viable option if you are not yet ready to shell out that much money. But, you can expect to pay a premium for the convenience of calling Norwalk home, with rent averaging $2,692 for a 937 sq. ft. apartment size. 

It is only a few hundred bucks less than the $2,833 average rent in Stamford, arguably favoring the city when the cost of living in Norwalk, CT, compared to Stamford. Also, about 11% of the housing units are available for less than $2000 if you have to pinch your wallet for rent.

Education and Healthcare

Norwalk offers a variety of educational options for families. Its public school system is impressive for parents seeking quality education for their children. 

The 21 schools in the Norwalk district cater to the education of over 11,000 students on a 13:1 student-teacher ratio, ensuring that your child receives personalized attention. 

Additionally, the city has several private school options for those seeking alternative education pathways. It is worth noting that the Norwalk public schools have a high minority enrollment of 80%, which is a positive for families that value diversity.

Norwalk’s diversity extends to healthcare. 86.3% of the Norwalk, CT, population has health coverage provided by different groups, including employers and Medicaid.

Culinary Adventures: One Oyster at a Time

“The world is your oyster“. Norwalk took this expression quite literally as it entices palates with its flavorful burst of oysters. An annual festival, The Norwalk Oyster Festival, is even held to celebrate the oyster industry in Norwalk.

The city is also home to some of the most varied and delectable servings of fresh seafood, promising its visitors and residents culinary adventures. Fresh sushi and tapas are not left out of the mix, filling the air with aromas inviting feasting.

Traffic is not a Bear

Many big cities suffer from a lack of reliable public transport networks. But thanks to Norwalk’s well-connected public transportation system and easy access to major highways, long commutes are not a common experience. 

People in Norwalk, CT, have an average commute time of 27.1 minutes, the same as the national average. Sometimes, though, getting around Norwalk can feel packed, especially during rush hour and peak travel time. However, it does not cause much of a delay.

Crime Rate: Inner Sherlock or Keeping it Clean

Buzzing economy, great healthcare, and dining scene, but is Norwalk, CT, a good place to live?

You would think that with the dense population of Norwalk city, crime would be commonplace. But this is hardly the case. Per 1,000 residents, Norwalk has a violent crime rate of 1.24, a hurtling low from the 4.0 national median. 

Plus, its property crime rate is 17.35, below the 20.0 national median. It comes as no surprise as the city has a total crime index of 25, meaning it is safer than 25% of U.S. neighborhoods. 

Here are some of the safest neighborhoods in Norwalk you can live in:

• Cranbury
• Silvermine
• Wilson Point
• Marvin Beach
• Spring Hill North

Crime	Norwalk median	State median	National median
Violent crime	1.24	1.5	4
Property crime	17.35	14.94	20

 

City Attractions

Norwalk, CT, might not be as well-known as some of the bigger cities in the state. But it is not short on attractions. From historic places to family-friendly attractions, the city has it all.

Here are some must-visit spots in Norwalk:

• The Maritime Aquarium
• Stepping Stones Museum for Children
• Oyster Shell Park
• Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum
• Calf Pasture Beach
• Norwalk Harbor
• Lockwood-Mathews Park
• SoNo Collection

Final Thoughts

Ready to make the world your oyster? When you think of a charming landscape, convenience, and opportunity, think of Norwalk. The city combines cultural vibrancy with vast economic opportunities and a stunning landscape.  

Having explored different aspects of living in Norwalk, you have enough guidance to answer the question, “Is Norwalk CT a good place to live?” 

The higher cost of living, especially in housing, may call for a pause. Yet, with its thriving economy, excellent education, and low crime rates, Norwalk remains an enticing destination for those seeking a balance between quality of life and city living.

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