Waterbury, Waterbury CT — neighborhood review

Waterbury, CT

Waterbury · Naugatuck Valley Planning Region · CT 06702

Updated August 5, 2026 · Would You Live There?

Think twice

Verdict

$286K

Median Price

70/100

Walk Score

8/10

Schools

35 min

to New Haven, CT

Score Breakdown

FAffordability
15/100
FSafety
38/100
B+Schools
80/100
DQuietness
40/100
B-Commute
70/100
B-Walkability
70/100
WYLT Score52/100

Our Take

Waterbury has a very low median income and a high unemployment rate, so the job market is weak. It offers cheap housing and some public transit, but the overall amenities and safety are not great. If you’re looking for an inexpensive, small‑town feel and don’t mind limited services, it could work, but consider better options.

B.

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The Good

  • Affordable home prices (median $264k)
  • Low flood risk (X zone)
  • Reasonable commuting time to New Haven (35 min)
  • Good public school ratings for the area

Real Talk

  • !Median household income only $14,852—very low compared to national averages
  • !High unemployment (~24%) indicates a struggling local economy
  • !Limited nightlife and dining options
  • !Crime rates tend to be higher than in comparable suburbs
  • $Higher property taxes and insurance for older homes
  • $Utility costs can be high in older infrastructure
  • $Transportation costs for those who need to commute to larger cities

Best For

Budget‑conscious rentersRetirees seeking low cost of livingPeople who commute to nearby citiesThose looking for a small community vibe

Risk Snapshot

Flood riskLow
Violent crimeModerate
Property crimeHigh
Air qualityModerate
Price volatilityModerate

Crime & Safety

Waterbury, CT

F

Safety grade

Safety score38 / 100
High riskVery safe
⚠️Violent Crime
Moderate
3.9incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (3.7)11+

5% higher than the national average

🔒Property Crime
High
38.4incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (19.5)59+

97% higher than the national average

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From Residents

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