Manchester, CT
Population 36,561 · Connecticut
About Manchester, CT
Manchester is a mid-sized city in Connecticut with a population of 36,561 residents. The median household income is $76,780 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Manchester is 37 years.
Housing in Manchester has a median home value of $205,800 and median monthly rent of $1,357. Of the 16,461 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 8,643 owner-occupied and 6,985 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Manchester is 5.4% and the poverty rate is 14.8%. 31.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 22 minutes.
How Manchester Ranks in Connecticut
Cost of Living in Manchester, CT
Compared to national averages, Manchester has a median household income of $76,780 (2% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $205,800, which is 16% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,357 is 17% above the US average of $1,163. Within Connecticut, Manchester's income is 38% below the state average of $123,065, and home values are 60% below the state median of $516,920.
Why Live in Manchester, CT?
Manchester offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $76,780, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $205,800, below the US average of $244,900, and short commute times averaging just 22 minutes.
Manchester has a population of 36,561 with a median age of 37 years. Compare Manchester with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Connecticut.
Similar Cities Near Manchester
Cities in Connecticut with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Torrington | 35,481 | $69,611 | $195,800 | Compare |
| Norwich | 39,992 | $64,185 | $231,300 | Compare |
| Shelton | 41,402 | $114,739 | $435,700 | Compare |
| Naugatuck | 31,634 | $92,184 | $241,600 | Compare |
| Newington | 30,551 | $98,585 | $279,900 | Compare |
| East Haven | 27,729 | $86,498 | $274,900 | Compare |
| New London | 27,199 | $60,123 | $234,800 | Compare |
| Wethersfield | 27,180 | $118,523 | $300,500 | 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 Manchester With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Manchester
What is the population of Manchester, CT?
The population of Manchester, CT is 36,561 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Manchester?
The median household income in Manchester, CT is $76,780 per year.
What is the median home value in Manchester?
The median home value in Manchester, CT is $205,800.
What is the average rent in Manchester?
The median monthly rent in Manchester, CT is $1,357.
What is the unemployment rate in Manchester?
The unemployment rate in Manchester, CT is 5.4%.