New Haven, CT
Population 132,893 · Connecticut
About New Haven, CT
New Haven is a major city located in Connecticut with a population of 132,893 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $53,771 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.9 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 New Haven features a median home value of $249,000, which is 2% above the national median of $244,900. This positions New Haven in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,442, 24% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 59,626 total housing units, 28% are owner-occupied (15,157 units) and 72% are renter-occupied (38,267 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 New Haven shows an unemployment rate of 7.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 25.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in New Haven have an average one-way commute time of 21 minutes.
Education & Demographics
37.7% of New Haven 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 5.7% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 15.9% Black or African American, and 9.0% Asian residents, with 17.7% of the population being foreign-born.
How New Haven Ranks in Connecticut
Cost of Living in New Haven, CT
Compared to national averages, New Haven has a median household income of $53,771 (28% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $249,000, which is 2% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,442 is 24% above the US average of $1,163. Within Connecticut, New Haven's income is 56% below the state average of $123,065, and home values are 52% below the state median of $516,920.
Why Live in New Haven, CT?
New Haven offers a well-educated community where 37.7% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 21 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,771) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, New Haven provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
New Haven has a population of 132,893 with a median age of 31.9 years. Compare New Haven with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Connecticut.
Similar Cities Near New Haven
Cities in Connecticut with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stamford | 135,806 | $107,474 | $614,300 | Compare |
| Hartford | 119,970 | $45,300 | $217,200 | Compare |
| Bridgeport | 148,012 | $56,584 | $252,400 | Compare |
| Waterbury | 114,356 | $51,642 | $185,400 | 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 New Haven With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about New Haven
What is the population of New Haven, CT?
The population of New Haven, CT is 132,893 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 New Haven?
The median household income in New Haven, CT is $53,771 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in New Haven?
The median home value in New Haven, CT is $249,000, which is 2% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in New Haven?
The median monthly rent in New Haven, CT is $1,442, which is 24% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in New Haven?
The unemployment rate in New Haven, CT is 7.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is New Haven, CT a good place to live?
New Haven offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 132,893 and a median age of 31.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is New Haven, CT?
37.7% of residents in New Haven aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in New Haven?
Key cost-of-living indicators for New Haven, CT: median home value is $249,000 (2% above national), median rent is $1,442/month, and median household income is $53,771. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.6x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in New Haven?
The poverty rate in New Haven, CT is 25.0%, 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 New Haven, CT?
New Haven's population is 5.7% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 15.9% Black or African American, 9.0% Asian, and 29.0% two or more races. 17.7% of residents are foreign-born.