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Moving to West Haven, CT? Check Out Our Complete Guide to the City

 

Moving to the Connecticut coast? Whether you’re coming for school, work, or just seeking a fresh start, West Haven, CT, welcomes you to our city! From beautiful beaches to convenient community amenities, you will quickly see why our home is not only a popular spot to visit but also the perfect place to settle down. Our guide to the area will give you the run-down on all you need to know about living in West Haven. Keep Safe Storage is a local storage facility, located along the coast of New Haven County. Learn about the neighborhood and find a place to store your items with Keep Safe Storage!

A Mover’s Guide to West Haven, CT

Living in the City

Population: 55,336

Median Home Value: $247,800

West Haven’s coastal community offers a unique blend of city amenities, historical charm, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a young professional, a family relocating, or a student searching for a lively college town, West Haven has something for everyone. That is why Niche.com ranks West Haven as one of the most diverse communities in the entire state. Let’s explore what makes this city special.

Education & Employment

West Haven is home to several top-tier educational institutions. The University of New Haven is renowned for its programs in criminal justice, forensic science, and engineering. Yale University’s West Campus, just a short drive away, is a center for scientific research and innovation. It provides additional educational opportunities for those interested in fields such as medicine, biology, and engineering.

The city also boasts a robust job market. With Yale University and Yale-New Haven Hospital being major employers, there are numerous opportunities in education, healthcare, and research. The city’s proximity to New Haven also provides access to a broader job market, with diverse opportunities ranging from technology and finance to the arts and culture sectors.

Community & Events

The local parks and recreational facilities offer numerous activities for all ages. Painter Park and the West Haven Green are popular spots for picnics, sports, and all kinds of community gatherings. The city’s youth sports leagues and adult recreational programs provide the opportunity for residents to come together to stay active and engaged.

Community spirit also shines through West Haven’s various events and festivals throughout the year. Just check the community calendar for an excuse to get out on the town, and keep an eye out for these favorite annual events!

  • Savin Rock Festival: A beloved annual tradition, this festival celebrates the history of the old Savin Rock amusement park with food vendors, live music, rides, and fireworks. It’s a great way for locals and visitors to experience the community’s rich history and vibrant culture.
  • West Haven Summer Concert Series: Held at the beautiful Old Grove Park overlooking the Long Island Sound, this series features free live music ranging from rock and jazz to country and classical. It’s an excellent opportunity for residents to enjoy great music in a picturesque setting.
  • West Haven Farmers Market: This weekly market is a favorite for residents looking to buy fresh, locally-grown produce, homemade goods, and unique crafts. It’s also a great place to meet neighbors and support local farmers and artisans.
  • Apple Festival: Hosted in the fall, this event celebrates the autumn season with apple-themed foods, crafts, and entertainment. It’s a fun outing for families and a way to enjoy the crisp fall weather.

West Haven’s Unique New England Attractions

On the Coast

West Haven is situated along the beautiful coastline, offering stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you seek a relaxing day by the water at Oyster River Beach or prefer birdwatching at the Sandy Point Bird Sanctuary, there is something for all interests.

The city features several other beaches, including Bradley Point Park, Sandy Point Beach, and Oak Street Beach. These provide a nice quick getaway for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and playing beach volleyball. See a stretch of the coast by visiting Savin Rock Boardwalk. This 1.5-mile boardwalk runs along the shoreline, offering breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound. It’s a popular spot for walking, jogging, and rollerblading, as well as a great place to enjoy a beautiful sunset.

A Piece of History

As you explore the streets and waterfront, you’ll find numerous reminders of the city’s early days, offering a glimpse into its development over the centuries. From the historic Savin Rock Amusement Park, now known as West Haven’s own Coney Island, to the oldest surviving structure in West Haven, the Ward-Heitmann House Museum, the landmarks tell a fascinating narrative of the city that you should see for yourself.

Experience West Haven’s Dining Scene

West Haven offers something to cater to all tastes and preferences. From fresh New England seafood at Stowe’s Seafood to plentifully portioned Italian cuisine at App’s Ristorante, the local restaurants provide a wide range of delicious options.

A staple in West Haven, Georgie’s Diner features classic diner decor and extensive menu. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Georgie’s is known for its comfort food classics, including fluffy pancakes, juicy burgers, and delicious milkshakes. Another local favorite for comfort food, Elm Diner serves up hearty breakfasts and sandwiches. Their breakfast specials are particularly popular, drawing in crowds every morning for fluffy omelets, crispy bacon, and freshly brewed coffee.

In the mood for pizza? Zuppardi’s Apizza has been serving up authentic New Haven-style pizza since 1934. Known for its thin, crispy crust and high-quality toppings, Zuppardi’s offers a range of specialty pies as well as the option to create your own. Casa Bianca Pizza Restaurant is another favorite with an extensive menu, spanning from pizzas and gyros to pasta and deluxe sandwiches.

 

Make Your Move to West Haven, CT, with Keep Safe Storage

If you’re moving to the neighborhood, our self storage solutions can make the transition smoother. Keep Safe Storage, located on Highland Street near the Connecticut Turnpike, offers a variety of storage options. Whether you prefer drive-up storage units for the convenience or indoor, temperature-controlled storage to store sensitive items, we have the right solution for you.

Our storage experts are available in person or over the phone to help you determine the best storage size and amenities for your items. You can rent online now or reserve a unit for a later date. Have questions about renting with us or about the West Haven, CT neighborhood? Get to know our team of local storage professionals, who are ready to guide you through your storage rental experience. Get started with Keep Safe Storage today!

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Bella Quill

Bella Quill

About the Author: Bella Quill is a Marketing Intern at Storage Asset Management. She is exploring all parts or marketing, including content writing and social media. In Bella's free time, she loves to travel, bake, and spend time with her horse, Sunny.

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Katie Mest

About the Author: Katie Mest is a Content Marketing Specialist at Storage Asset Management in York, PA. She specializes in writing about the self storage industry, including storage tips and helpful resources. Outside of work, Katie enjoys spending time exploring the outdoors and snuggling in with a crochet project and her cat, Billie.