Living in North Haven

North Haven is a quaint little town in New Haven County, CT and sits on the outskirts of New Haven, Connecticut. The six principal communities that make up North Haven are; North Haven Center, Clintonville, Montowese, Green Acres, Ridge Road and Quinnipiac.

North Haven has an interesting location.  It’s very convenient to get to several major cities while still having the comfort of a suburb known for excellent public safety, great schools and a family friendly environment.  North Haven is less than 10 miles from downtown New Haven and Yale University, as well as, from the Long Island Sound.  Living in North Haven means that you have many conveniences being 27 miles South of Hartford, 76 miles Northeast of New York City, 80 miles West of Providence, RI and 115 miles Southwest of Boston, MA.   North Haven also has very easy access to Interstate 91 and the Wilbur Cross Parkway (Route 15).

In July, 2007, Money Magazine ranked North Haven as 86^th on the list of “Best Places to live in the United States”.  Money Magazine bases its votes on terrific small towns that stand out in the qualities that families care most about – great job opportunities, top-notch schools, safe streets, economic strength, nice weather and plenty to do to keep busy.

A little history about this quiet little town; in 1786, the General Assembly permitted North Haven to incorporate as a town, separate from New Haven.  Significant population growth occurred at the end of World War II.  North Haven’s population increased rapidly, quadrupling between 1945 and 1970.  In the 1950’s and 60’s, the population shift necessitated the building of a new police station, firehouse, library and five schools.  The establishment of two factories, Pratt & Whitney and Marlin Fire Arms spurred the population increase.  In spite of its rapid growth throughout the past decades, however, this New England town still retains its town meeting form of government.

There are countless reasons why North Haven is a town that families consider with such high regard.  In additional to the excellent public schools, North Haven is also the home of the Quinnipiac School of Health Sciences, The School of Nursing and The School of Education and School of Medicine. North Haven’s commitment to the community can be appreciated when visiting one of the well maintained parks that combined, make up nearly 200 acres of open space, in addition to 18 ball fields, 15 tennis and basketball courts, 7 playgrounds and 8 natural areas.  Some of the town’s critical open spaces include Peter’s Rock, Hanson’s Park and Spring Road.

One of my favorite things to do in North Haven is the Connecticut Bike Tours.  It’s such a fun way to get some exercise, spend time with friends and family and see some of the prettiest landscapes in the United States.  The friendly tour guides will lead you through the quaint towns, peaceful marsh lands and historical landmarks.  The twenty mile bike ride seems like a breeze with the occasional stops for the guides to talk about the local environment.  They are very knowledgeable and always ready to answer any questions you have.  The tour guides provide snacks and water and make it a wonderful way to spend a day.  Three quarters of the way through the bike ride, you can hop onto a boat ride through the Thimble Islands.

All in all, North Haven is a a fantastically friendly town with much to offer its residents and their visitors.