Bristol, CT
Population 61,129 · Connecticut
About Bristol, CT
Bristol is a mid-sized city located in Connecticut with a population of 61,129 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $83,458 per year, which is 11% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.2 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Bristol features a median home value of $252,300, which is 3% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Bristol in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,305, 12% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 26,744 total housing units, 65% are owner-occupied (16,015 units) and 35% are renter-occupied (8,722 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Bristol shows an unemployment rate of 7.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 8.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Bristol have an average one-way commute time of 24.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
30.5% of Bristol residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 1.6% White, 2.2% Hispanic or Latino, 12.7% Black or African American, and 4.1% Asian residents, with 10.4% of the population being foreign-born.
How Bristol Ranks in Connecticut
Cost of Living in Bristol, CT
Compared to national averages, Bristol has a median household income of $83,458 (11% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $252,300, which is 3% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,305 is 12% above the US average of $1,163. Within Connecticut, Bristol's income is 32% below the state average of $123,065, and home values are 51% below the state median of $516,920.
Why Live in Bristol, CT?
Bristol offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $83,458, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 8.4%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 24.5 minutes.
Bristol has a population of 61,129 with a median age of 38.2 years. Compare Bristol with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Connecticut.
Similar Cities Near Bristol
Cities in Connecticut with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meriden | 60,418 | $68,617 | $221,600 | Compare |
| West Hartford | 63,809 | $125,616 | $391,200 | Compare |
| West Haven | 55,147 | $73,566 | $265,200 | Compare |
| East Hartford | 50,798 | $66,943 | $215,400 | Compare |
| Milford city (balance), Connecticut | 50,749 | $110,126 | $377,400 | Compare |
| New Britain | 73,301 | $57,036 | $207,300 | Compare |
| Middletown | 47,646 | $73,979 | $279,500 | Compare |
| Shelton | 41,402 | $114,739 | $435,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Connecticut
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Bristol With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Bristol
What is the population of Bristol, CT?
The population of Bristol, CT is 61,129 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Connecticut.
What is the median household income in Bristol?
The median household income in Bristol, CT is $83,458 per year, which is 11% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Bristol?
The median home value in Bristol, CT is $252,300, which is 3% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Bristol?
The median monthly rent in Bristol, CT is $1,305, which is 12% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Bristol?
The unemployment rate in Bristol, CT is 7.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Bristol, CT a good place to live?
Bristol offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 61,129 and a median age of 38.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Bristol, CT?
30.5% of residents in Bristol aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Bristol?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Bristol, CT: median home value is $252,300 (3% above national), median rent is $1,305/month, and median household income is $83,458. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Bristol?
The poverty rate in Bristol, CT is 8.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Bristol, CT?
Bristol's population is 1.6% White, 2.2% Hispanic or Latino, 12.7% Black or African American, 4.1% Asian, and 6.6% two or more races. 10.4% of residents are foreign-born.