Metro areas in Connecticut: income, rent and home values
Connecticut has 5 metropolitan areas with annual Census data, led by Hartford, CT with 1.2 million residents. Household incomes are highest in Bridgeport, CT ($120,502). Renters spend the smallest share of income in Hartford, CT (31.1%) and the largest in Bridgeport, CT (35.1%). The fastest-growing metro since 2021 is Norwich, CT (+5.7%).
| Metro area | Population | Median income | Median rent | Home value | Rent / income |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hartford, CT | 1,171,426 | $98,103 | $1,548 | $388,700 | 31.1% |
| Bridgeport, CT | 978,179 | $120,502 | $2,109 | $654,800 | 35.1% |
| New Haven, CT | 578,741 | $95,071 | $1,733 | $393,400 | 34.3% |
| Waterbury, CT | 463,349 | $90,194 | $1,514 | $364,100 | 32.6% |
| Norwich, CT | 284,015 | $93,267 | $1,551 | $383,400 | 33.1% |
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Connecticut at a glance
What is the most affordable metro area in Connecticut for renters?+
Hartford, CT, where renters spend a median 31.1% of household income on rent (2025 Census data).
Which metro area in Connecticut has the highest income?+
Bridgeport, CT, with a median household income of $120,502 in 2025.
How many metro areas are in Connecticut?+
5 metropolitan statistical areas in Connecticut have annual Census estimates (population 65,000+).
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2025 1-year estimates (released September 2026), with 2024 and 2021 for trends. Figures are survey estimates with margins of error; small differences between metros may not be meaningful. Metro areas use the official Metropolitan Statistical Area boundaries. Compiled and analyzed by Metro Research. Methodology.