If you’re thinking about moving to Connecticut, bustling cities like Bridgeport or Stamford might come to mind. However, this state has much more to offer. From quaint downtowns to festivals that bring the community together, Connecticut’s small towns are perfect for anyone looking to experience what life is like in its quieter corners. In this Redfin article, we’ll discuss 7 charming small towns in Connecticut, each with their own unique character and plenty of reasons to call home.
1. Lakeville, CT
Median Sale Price: $923,000
Homes for sale in Lakeville | Apartments for rent in Lakeville
Located in the Litchfield Hills, Lakeville is known for its beautiful lake and rich history. Locals love spending weekends by Lake Wononscopomuc, Connecticut’s deepest natural lake, where boating, fishing, and picnicking are favorite activities. If you’re visiting in August, don’t miss the Salisbury Fall Festival, an event showcasing local crafts, food, and music. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Hotchkiss School, an iconic boarding school that has been educating students since 1891. The town is also home to The White Hart Inn, a historic inn that has hosted many famous guests, including Mark Twain.
2. Stonington, CT
Median Sale Price: $583,000
Homes for sale in Stonington | Apartments for rent in Stonington
Sitting on the southeastern tip of Connecticut, Stonington is a coastal town with a strong maritime heritage. The town is known for its historic Stonington Borough, where you can stroll through streets lined with 18th and 19th-century homes. On weekends, locals and visitors flock to Dubois Beach for sunbathing and swimming, while seafood lovers head to the Dog Watch Café for fresh, locally sourced dishes. Stonington is also home to the Stonington Vineyards, one of Connecticut’s oldest wineries, which offers tastings and hosts events throughout the year.
3. Bantam, CT
Median Sale Price: $283,000
Homes for sale in Bantam | Apartments for rent in Bantam
Bantam is famous for its thriving food scene. Particularly at Arethusa Farm Dairy, where locals rave about the homemade ice cream and artisanal cheeses. The Bantam Cinema & Arts Center, the oldest continuously operating movie theater in Connecticut, is a great place to enjoy independent films and special screenings.
4. Cornwall, CT
Median Sale Price: $325,000
Homes for sale in Cornwall | Apartments for rent in Cornwall
Cornwall is perhaps best known for the iconic Cornwall Bridge, a covered bridge that has become a symbol of New England charm. Locals and visitors enjoy hiking in the nearby Mohawk State Forest, where the trails have pretty views, especially during the fall foliage season. On weekends, the Cornwall Farmers Market is the place to be, offering fresh produce, local crafts, and live music. The town also boasts a rich artistic community, with several galleries showcasing the work of local artists.
5. Woodstock, CT
Median Sale Price: $175,000
Homes for sale in Woodstock | Apartments for rent in Woodstock
Often referred to as the “Quiet Corner” of Connecticut, Woodstock is a picturesque town with rolling farmland and historic sites. The town is home to Roseland Cottage, a Gothic Revival house that has been meticulously preserved and is now a museum. Woodstock is also famous for its annual Woodstock Fair, one of the oldest agricultural fairs in the country. Weekends in Woodstock often involve leisurely drives through the countryside, stopping at local farms for fresh apples or homemade cider.
6. Lyme, CT
Median Sale Price: $880,000
Homes for sale in Lyme | Apartments for rent in Lyme
Lyme is loved by outdoor enthusiasts, with the nearby Nehantic State Forest offering miles of hiking trails and opportunities for birdwatching. Lyme is also home to the Florence Griswold Museum, a historic site that played a pivotal role in the American Impressionist art movement. Every July, the town hosts the Lyme Farmers Market, a community event where locals gather to enjoy fresh produce, local crafts, and live performances.
7. Mystic, CT
Median Sale Price: $655,000
Homes for sale in Mystic | Apartments for rent in Mystic
Mystic is a coastal town that seamlessly blends maritime history with modern attractions. The town’s centerpiece is Mystic Seaport, the largest maritime museum in the United States, where visitors can explore historic ships and learn about the region’s seafaring past. Mystic Aquarium is another must-see offering close encounters with marine life, including beluga whales and African penguins. On weekends, the streets of Mystic are alive with locals dining at waterfront restaurants, shopping at boutique stores, or enjoying a scoop of ice cream from Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream.
Methodology: The median home sale price is from the Redfin Data Center.
