Cost of Living in Hartford, Connecticut in 2025

Hartford, Connecticut Cost of Living: Quick Takeaways

• Housing Costs: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Hartford is projected to reach $1,400 in 2025.
• Utilities: Monthly utility costs, including electricity and internet, are relatively high at $314.69.
• Transportation Expenses: Public transit costs are affordable with a monthly pass around $52.50, while fuel costs average $3.26 per gallon.
• Healthcare and Insurance: Health insurance monthly premiums average $621, with auto insurance annual premiums near $2,364.

Hartford, Connecticut, offers a diverse urban environment with a mix of affordable housing and higher utility expenses. Understanding the detailed cost of living is important for residents and newcomers.

This article provides an extensive breakdown of Hartford's cost of living in 2025, covering housing, transportation, utilities, and more.

1. Housing Costs in Hartford, Connecticut

Housing represents a major portion of living expenses in Hartford. Here is a historical overview of average rent for a one-bedroom apartment:

• 2010: Approximately $900
• 2015: Around $1,050
• 2020: Approximately $1,200
• 2024: Reached $1,364
• 2025: Projected to be $1,400

The rent prices indicate a steady upward trend, reflecting demand and housing market dynamics.

Hospitality employers and restaurant owners interested in local market trends can benefit from understanding housing costs, which affect employee living standards and salary expectations. For example, see hospitality real estate market trends for insights relevant to your business planning.

2. Homeownership and Real Estate Trends in Hartford, Connecticut

Potential homeowners will find the following trends in Hartford’s real estate:

• 2010: Median home price approximately $150,000
• 2015: Increased to around $175,000
• 2020: Approximately $200,000
• 2024: Reaching $275,000
• 2025: Projected median price is $280,000

This increase underlines a growing real estate market attractive for investments yet impacting affordability.

3. Transportation Expenses in Hartford, Connecticut

Transportation options in Hartford include public transit and personal vehicle costs:

• Public Transit: One-way fare is about $1.75, with monthly passes costing around $52.50
• Fuel Costs: Average price per gallon is $3.26 for 2025
• Vehicle Maintenance: Annual upkeep averages near $1,200

Commuters benefit from affordable transit options, though vehicle-related costs remain significant.

4. Utility Costs in Hartford, Connecticut

Monthly utility bills include electricity and internet, with totals as follows:

• Electricity: $271.69
• Internet: $43.00
• Total Utilities: $314.69

Utilities in Hartford are notably higher than national averages, influencing overall living costs.

5. Grocery and Food Expenses in Hartford, Connecticut

Groceries and dining expenses are as follows:

Monthly groceries per person average $253.64. Dining out costs are variable, with casual meals around $15 and mid-range restaurant meals near $50.

For restaurateurs and hospitality business owners, adjusting menu prices and managing kitchen costs is essential to maintain profit margins amid these expenses. Learn more about food waste statistics to optimize your operations.

6. Healthcare Costs in Hartford, Connecticut

Healthcare expenses combine insurance and medical costs:

Employer-sponsored health insurance costs average $140.33 monthly, while marketplace silver plan premiums are about $621 monthly.

7. Educational Expenses in Hartford, Connecticut

Education costs vary by level and institution type:

• Public Schools: No direct tuition fees
• Private Schools: Average annual tuition approximately $15,000
• In-State University Tuition: Around $12,000 per year

Educational expenses are significant, especially for private and post-secondary schooling.

8. Entertainment and Leisure in Hartford, Connecticut

Entertainment options impact overall lifestyle expenses:

• Movie Tickets: Average price is $13.29
• Gym Memberships: Monthly fee averages $28.66
• Mid-Range Restaurant Meals: Cost approximately $40 per meal

Annual spending on entertainment and personal care services is substantial for residents.

9. Taxes and Miscellaneous Fees in Hartford, Connecticut

Tax obligations include:

• State Income Tax Rate: Ranges between 3% and 6.99%
• Sales Tax: 6.35% across most purchases
• Property Tax Rate: Average around 2.14%

These taxes factor importantly into Hartford’s cost of living and must be considered by households.

10. Childcare and Family Expenses in Hartford, Connecticut

Families face the following typical childcare costs:

• Daycare Services: $1,000 monthly
• After-School Programs: $300 monthly
• Extracurricular Activities: $100 monthly

These expenses are crucial components of family budgeting in Hartford.

11. Clothing and Personal Care in Hartford, Connecticut

Monthly expenditures on apparel and personal care include:

• Clothing: Approximately $115 per month
• Personal Care Products and Services: Around $54 per month

These costs reflect typical spending habits and lifestyle preferences.

12. Insurance Costs in Hartford, Connecticut

Insurance premiums impact overall living expenses:

• Health Insurance: Average monthly premium for a silver plan is $621
• Auto Insurance: Annual premiums average $2,364
• Homeowners Insurance: Annual cost approximately $1,951
• Renters Insurance: Annual premium around $180

These costs are essential for financial protection and compliance.

13. Miscellaneous Expenses in Hartford, Connecticut

Additional annual expenses include:

• Entertainment: $2,482
• Personal Care Services: $768
• Miscellaneous Goods and Services: $707

Such expenses contribute to the overall quality of life in Hartford.

14. Income and Salaries in Hartford, Connecticut

An overview of median household income in Hartford shows:

• 2010: Approximately $37,000
• 2015: Increased to $40,000
• 2020: Reached $45,000
• 2023: About $45,300
• 2025: Projected $46,000

Median income growth signals modest economic improvement over time.

If you are considering a hospitality career in Hartford, knowing typical income and job outlooks can help you plan effectively. Explore job descriptions and interview guidance for popular roles like bartenders and restaurant managers in our career resource section.

15. Comparison with National Averages for Hartford, Connecticut

Hartford’s cost of living compared to national averages reveals:

• Overall Cost of Living: Approximately 2% higher than national average
• Housing: 12% lower than national average
• Utilities: 31% higher
• Food: 2% higher
• Healthcare: 3% higher
• Transportation: 2% lower
• Goods and Services: 7% higher

These differences highlight areas where Hartford residents may find savings or higher expenses.

Our Methodology for Hartford Cost of Living Figures

Our analysis compiles data from trusted sources including government reports, Numbeo, Bureau of Labor Statistics, MIT Living Wage Calculator, Zillow and others. Figures representing 2025 may include estimations when direct data was unavailable to ensure a comprehensive overview.

Hartford, Connecticut Cost of Living: Conclusion

Hartford's cost of living in 2025 reflects a balanced mix of affordability and higher expenses in certain sectors such as utilities and insurance.

Housing costs remain comparatively reasonable, while healthcare and personal expenses are slightly above national averages.

For residents and those considering moving, understanding these costs is key to making informed financial decisions and planning budgets effectively in Hartford.

Hospitality employers in Hartford may also want to reference restaurant staff hiring insights to optimize recruitment strategies within this economic environment.