The 10 Best Neighborhoods in Hartford, Connecticut
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Are you considering a move to Hartford, Connecticut? If so, you’re in for a treat! This charming city offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and appeal. In this article, we’ll explore the 10 best neighborhoods in Hartford, providing you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision about where to settle down. So, let’s dive in and discover the hidden gems of this New England city!
1. West End
Located just west of downtown, the West End is a vibrant and historic neighborhood that boasts beautiful architecture, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community. With its mix of stately mansions and charming Victorian homes, the West End is a popular choice for families and young professionals alike. The area is also home to the University of Hartford and the Mark Twain House & Museum, making it a cultural hub within the city.
- Great for: Families, young professionals, history buffs
- Top attractions: Mark Twain House & Museum, University of Hartford
- Average home price: $250,000
2. Downtown
As the heart of the city, Downtown Hartford offers a bustling urban environment with a wide array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. This neighborhood is perfect for those who crave the excitement of city living and want to be within walking distance of major attractions like the Connecticut Science Center and the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art. With a variety of condos and apartments available, Downtown is an ideal choice for young professionals and empty nesters.
- Great for: Young professionals, empty nesters, city lovers
- Top attractions: Connecticut Science Center, Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art
- Average home price: $200,000 (condos and apartments)
3. South Green
South Green is a diverse and affordable neighborhood located just south of downtown. With its mix of historic homes and modern apartment buildings, South Green offers a variety of housing options for residents. The neighborhood is also home to several parks, including Colt Park and Barnard Park, making it a great choice for those who enjoy spending time outdoors. Additionally, South Green is conveniently located near Hartford Hospital and the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, making it an attractive option for healthcare professionals.
- Great for: Families, healthcare professionals, budget-conscious buyers
- Top attractions: Colt Park, Barnard Park
- Average home price: $150,000
4. Blue Hills
Located in the northwest corner of the city, Blue Hills is a predominantly residential neighborhood known for its strong sense of community and excellent schools. With its mix of single-family homes and townhouses, Blue Hills is an ideal choice for families and first-time homebuyers. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and recreational facilities, including Keney Park and the Goodwin Golf Course, making it a great option for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
- Great for: Families, first-time homebuyers, outdoor enthusiasts
- Top attractions: Keney Park, Goodwin Golf Course
- Average home price: $180,000
5. Asylum Hill
Asylum Hill is a diverse and historic neighborhood located just west of downtown. Known for its beautiful Victorian homes and historic landmarks, Asylum Hill is a popular choice for those who appreciate architecture and history. The neighborhood is also home to several major employers, including Aetna and The Hartford, making it an attractive option for professionals seeking a short commute to work.
- Great for: Professionals, history buffs, architecture enthusiasts
- Top attractions: Harriet Beecher Stowe Center, Aetna headquarters
- Average home price: $175,000
6. Frog Hollow
Frog Hollow is a diverse and up-and-coming neighborhood located just south of downtown. With its mix of historic homes and new development, Frog Hollow offers a variety of housing options for residents. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and community gardens, making it a great choice for those who enjoy spending time outdoors. Additionally, Frog Hollow is conveniently located near the Capitol Area and the Connecticut State Capitol, making it an attractive option for government employees.
- Great for: Government employees, budget-conscious buyers, outdoor enthusiasts
- Top attractions: Bushnell Park, Connecticut State Capitol
- Average home price: $140,000
7. Barry Square
Barry Square is a diverse and affordable neighborhood located just south of downtown. With its mix of single-family homes, multi-family homes, and apartment buildings, Barry Square offers a variety of housing options for residents. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and recreational facilities, including Goodwin Park and the Pope Park Recreation Center, making it a great choice for those who enjoy spending time outdoors. Additionally, Barry Square is conveniently located near Trinity College, making it an attractive option for students and faculty members.
- Great for: Students, faculty members, budget-conscious buyers
- Top attractions: Goodwin Park, Pope Park Recreation Center
- Average home price: $160,000
8. South Meadows
South Meadows is a predominantly industrial neighborhood located along the Connecticut River. With its mix of warehouses, office buildings, and residential properties, South Meadows offers a unique living environment for residents. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and recreational facilities, including Riverside Park and the Charter Oak Landing, making it a great choice for those who enjoy spending time outdoors. Additionally, South Meadows is conveniently located near major highways, making it an attractive option for commuters.
- Great for: Commuters, outdoor enthusiasts, unique living environments
- Top attractions: Riverside Park, Charter Oak Landing
- Average home price: $200,000
9. North Meadows
North Meadows is a mixed-use neighborhood located along the Connecticut River. With its mix of commercial, industrial, and residential properties, North Meadows offers a unique living environment for residents. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and recreational facilities, including Riverside Park and the Keney Park Golf Course, making it a great choice for those who enjoy spending time outdoors. Additionally, North Meadows is conveniently located near major highways, making it an attractive option for commuters.
- Great for: Commuters, outdoor enthusiasts, unique living environments
- Top attractions: Riverside Park, Keney Park Golf Course
- Average home price: $190,000
10. Sheldon Charter Oak
Sheldon Charter Oak is a historic neighborhood located just east of downtown. Known for its beautiful architecture and historic landmarks, Sheldon Charter Oak is a popular choice for those who appreciate history and culture. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and recreational facilities, including Colt Park and the Charter Oak Cultural Center, making it a great choice for those who enjoy spending time outdoors. Additionally, Sheldon Charter Oak is conveniently located near major highways, making it an attractive option for commuters.
- Great for: History buffs, culture enthusiasts, commuters
- Top attractions: Colt Park, Charter Oak Cultural Center
- Average home price: $180,000
FAQs
Q: What is the overall cost of living in Hartford, Connecticut?
A: The cost of living in Hartford is slightly higher than the national average, with housing being the most significant factor. However, some neighborhoods offer more affordable housing options than others.
Q: Is Hartford a safe city to live in?
A: Like any city, Hartford has its share of crime. However, some neighborhoods are safer than others. It’s essential to research crime rates and speak with local residents before making a decision on where to live.
Q: What is the job market like in Hartford?
A: Hartford has a diverse job market, with major industries including insurance, healthcare, and education. The city is home to several Fortune 500 companies, as well as numerous small businesses and startups.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hartford, Connecticut, offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and appeal. From the historic charm of the West End to the bustling urban environment of Downtown, there’s something for everyone in this charming New England city. By considering factors such as housing options, amenities, and safety, you can find the perfect neighborhood to call home in Hartford. Happy house hunting!
