Cost of Living in Waterbury, CT
Population 114,356 · Connecticut · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Most of Waterbury's cost indicators track within a reasonable band of national figures, with median household incomes near $51,642 — a more representative starting point for relocation math than the headline-expensive or headline-cheap cities on either tail. A poverty rate near 24% adds context to the income figures — well above the US average, and worth factoring into any comparison with cities on the coasts or in the Rockies.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Waterbury
The median home value in Waterbury is $185,400 — 39% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,180/month, 10% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $51,642/year is 31% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 9.3%, above the national average of 4.8%. Connecticut's top state income tax rate is 7.0% and the combined sales tax is 6.3%. Overall, Waterbury has a cost of living index of 72 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 28% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Waterbury, CT?
Waterbury has a cost index of 72 (100 = national average). It is 28% below the national average.
What is average rent in Waterbury, CT?
The median gross rent in Waterbury is $1,180 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Waterbury?
The median home value in Waterbury is $185,400 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Waterbury?
The median household income in Waterbury is $51,642 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Waterbury, CT?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Waterbury is 6.3%. The Connecticut state income tax top rate is 7.0%.
Is Waterbury, CT affordable?
Yes, Waterbury is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 72 — about 28% below the US national average of 100.
Waterbury at a Glance
- Population
- 114,356
- Median Income
- $51,642
- Home Value
- $185,400
- Median Rent
- $1,180/mo
- Unemployment
- 9.3%
- Sales Tax
- 6.3%
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Connecticut Rankings
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