Hartford, CT
Population 119,970 · Connecticut
About Hartford, CT
Hartford is a major city located in Connecticut with a population of 119,970 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $45,300 per year, which is 40% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.4 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Hartford features a median home value of $217,200, which is 11% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Hartford in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,221, 5% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 56,626 total housing units, 26% are owner-occupied (12,621 units) and 74% are renter-occupied (36,402 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Hartford shows an unemployment rate of 10.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 25.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Hartford have an average one-way commute time of 22.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.3% of Hartford residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 1.9% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 30.8% Black or African American, and 11.5% Asian residents, with 23.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Hartford Ranks in Connecticut
Cost of Living in Hartford, CT
Compared to national averages, Hartford has a median household income of $45,300 (40% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $217,200, which is 11% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,221 is 5% above the US average of $1,163. Within Connecticut, Hartford's income is 63% below the state average of $123,065, and home values are 58% below the state median of $516,920.
Why Live in Hartford, CT?
Hartford offers affordable housing with a median home value of $217,200, below the US average of $244,900, and short commute times averaging just 22.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($45,300) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Hartford provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Hartford has a population of 119,970 with a median age of 33.4 years. Compare Hartford with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Connecticut.
Similar Cities Near Hartford
Cities in Connecticut with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Waterbury | 114,356 | $51,642 | $185,400 | Compare |
| New Haven | 132,893 | $53,771 | $249,000 | Compare |
| Stamford | 135,806 | $107,474 | $614,300 | Compare |
| Bridgeport | 148,012 | $56,584 | $252,400 | Compare |
| Norwalk | 91,375 | $105,301 | $535,000 | Compare |
| Danbury | 86,086 | $83,422 | $381,600 | Compare |
| New Britain | 73,301 | $57,036 | $207,300 | Compare |
| West Hartford | 63,809 | $125,616 | $391,200 | 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 Hartford With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Hartford
What is the population of Hartford, CT?
The population of Hartford, CT is 119,970 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Connecticut.
What is the median household income in Hartford?
The median household income in Hartford, CT is $45,300 per year, which is 40% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Hartford?
The median home value in Hartford, CT is $217,200, which is 11% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Hartford?
The median monthly rent in Hartford, CT is $1,221, which is 5% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Hartford?
The unemployment rate in Hartford, CT is 10.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Hartford, CT a good place to live?
Hartford offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 119,970 and a median age of 33.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Hartford, CT?
18.3% of residents in Hartford 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 Hartford?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Hartford, CT: median home value is $217,200 (11% below national), median rent is $1,221/month, and median household income is $45,300. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Hartford?
The poverty rate in Hartford, CT is 25.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Hartford, CT?
Hartford's population is 1.9% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 30.8% Black or African American, 11.5% Asian, and 33.8% two or more races. 23.0% of residents are foreign-born.