Manchester, CT
Population 36,561 · Connecticut
About Manchester, CT
Manchester is a mid-sized city located in Connecticut with a population of 36,561 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $76,780 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 37 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Manchester features a median home value of $205,800, which is 16% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Manchester in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,357, 17% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 16,461 total housing units, 55% are owner-occupied (8,643 units) and 45% are renter-occupied (6,985 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Manchester shows an unemployment rate of 5.4%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 14.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Manchester have an average one-way commute time of 22 minutes.
Education & Demographics
31.8% of Manchester 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 0.5% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 15.2% Black or African American, and 3.5% Asian residents, with 12.7% of the population being foreign-born.
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 US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Connecticut.
What is the median household income in Manchester?
The median household income in Manchester, CT is $76,780 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Manchester?
The median home value in Manchester, CT is $205,800, which is 16% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Manchester?
The median monthly rent in Manchester, CT is $1,357, which is 17% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Manchester?
The unemployment rate in Manchester, CT is 5.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Manchester, CT a good place to live?
Manchester offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 36,561 and a median age of 37, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Manchester, CT?
31.8% of residents in Manchester 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 Manchester?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Manchester, CT: median home value is $205,800 (16% below national), median rent is $1,357/month, and median household income is $76,780. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Manchester?
The poverty rate in Manchester, CT is 14.8%, 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 Manchester, CT?
Manchester's population is 0.5% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 15.2% Black or African American, 3.5% Asian, and 16.1% two or more races. 12.7% of residents are foreign-born.