Living in Greenwich: A Local’s Guide

Greenwich HarborGreenwich is a jewel of a town in Fairfield County, Connecticut. It’s population is over 60,000 and growing, and for good reason. With fair coastal weather, beautiful and lush scenery (in the warmer months, at least), the most temperate climate in New England, and close proximity to New York City, Greenwich has a long history of being both the playground and the stomping territory of the wealthy. In fact, Greenwich is one of the wealthiest communities in the United States, and living in Greenwich does sometimes feel more like a privilege.

 

We get more than a few visitors at the Stanton House Inn interested in living in Greenwich. From idle daydreamers to people who’ve already bought a house, we get more than a few people seeking guidance on why to live here.

 

Safety and Education in Greenwich, CT

For starters, safety or education is not a concern for those living in Greenwich.

 

Greenwich boasts a remarkable array of schools, from prestigious private institutions to top-notch public options, providing a well-rounded educational experience for children of all ages.

 

Private Schools in Greenwich: Nurturing Tomorrow’s Leaders

Greenwich is home to some of the nation’s most prestigious private schools, each dedicated to fostering academic excellence and character development. Institutions like Greenwich Country Day School, with its renowned elementary and secondary programs, provide a strong foundation for young minds to flourish. Likewise, Greenwich Academy offers an exceptional all-girls education, instilling confidence and leadership skills in its students. For young gentlemen, Brunswick School stands as a symbol of academic rigor and character education.

 

Read our full guide to private schools in Greenwich, CT, for more information on these and more private schools.

 

Greenwich Public Schools: A Commitment to Excellence

Greenwich Public Schools are synonymous with quality education. From kindergarten through high school, these institutions consistently rank among the top in the state. Greenwich High School, in particular, is celebrated for its academic programs, extracurricular offerings, and dedicated educators. It’s a place where students are encouraged to explore their passions and reach their full potential. And yet each of the neighborhood elementary schools are excellent, as well.

 

And all paid via local property taxes. Which are much lower than surrounding towns, speaking of which. More than a few locals make the move from Westchester County into Greenwich just to take advantage of the lower property taxes.

 

In addition, the Greenwich Police Department and Greenwich Fire Department are top notch, and devoted to doing their jobs effectively. I can recount more than a few times walking all over town at night without any concerns about safety.

Getting Around Greenwich, CT

Second Congregational ChurchSpeaking of getting around, transportation of all sorts is not a problem for those living in Greenwich.

 

There are a range of airports nearby, including the New York City airports of JFK International Airport and LaGuardia Airport. The closest airport to Greenwich, CT, is the Westchester County Airport.

 

Drivers also have nothing to fear. More than a few guests have commented on how rapidly the roads improve when they drive across the border from New York State into Connecticut. The drive along the Merritt Parkway is particularly scenic. Traffic is sometimes bad downtown during certain times of the day, but much of the town is very walkable.

 

Cos Cob, Byram, Old Greenwich, and downtown Greenwich (where we are located) are among the most walkable neighborhoods in town.

 

For those who would rather not walk, there are options for taxis, such as Greenwich Taxi, as well as the best rail system in America: the MetroNorth railway makes the trip from New York City to Greenwich, CT, easy. MetroNorth travels from Grand Central Station through Westchester County to Greenwich in about 40 minutes, express. And the string of train stations along the Long Island Sound shore connects Greenwich to towns and cities from New York City to New Haven, CT, and up to Danbury, Connecticut. Amtrak, which runs out of nearby Stamford or New York, also connects Greenwichites to much of the rest of the country.

The Joys of Living in Greenwich, CT

The Chimes and sailboats at Greenwich Point ParkGreenwich, Connecticut, has a reputation for wealth. Plenty of hedge funds have settled here. First, the heads of those hedge funds arrive. Then they bring their company so they don’t need to commute into New York City.

 

But the new arrivals don’t seem to mind, as even first-time visitors are pleasantly surprised by how much there is to do here.

 

Be sure to download our free Greenwich, CT, Visitor’s Guide for our full list of attractions and activities. A primer follows:

 

Coastal Bliss: Long Island Sound

Living on the coast brings the joys of the Long Island Sound to our doorstep. It doesn’t matter if you’re into sailing, paddleboarding, or just a day at one of the Greenwich beaches. Greenwich’s waterfront offers endless opportunities to bask in the beauty of this coastal gem.

 

Beach Retreats: Greenwich Point Park and Island Beach

Greenwich Point Park and Island Beach are local treasures, perfect for picnics, swimming, and relaxation. These pristine shores along the Long Island Sound are ideal for unwinding and taking in stunning waterfront views.

 

And don’t forget to visit Great Captain Island, a nearby island getaway accessible by ferry.

 

Greenwich Avenue: Shop, Dine, Stroll

Greenwich AvenueShopping in the downtown Greenwich, CT, shopping district is not an inexpensive experience here, but worth a try. Greenwich Avenue is the main shopping center of town. It’s where locals and visitors alike converge to explore an array of boutiques, art galleries, and renowned stores like Saks Fifth Avenue. You can savor world-class cuisine in the many restaurants or simply take a leisurely stroll to soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

 

Birdwatcher’s Paradise: Greenwich Audubon Society

For nature enthusiasts, the Greenwich Audubon Center provides a tranquil escape. Explore its lush trails and discover the diverse bird species that call this area home. The Greenwich Audubon Center is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

 

If you crave the serenity of nature, the Greenwich Land Trust’s preserves are a must-visit. These protected lands provide numerous trails for hiking, birding, and simply reconnecting with the great outdoors.

 

Greenwich even hosts a state park on its border with Stamford: Mianus River State Park.

 

Greenwich Museums

Greenwich’s rich history is on full display at the Greenwich Historical Society, one of the best Greenwich, CT, museums. Explore historic sites around the Bush-Holley House, learn about the town’s past, and gain a deeper appreciation for its heritage.

 

Or explore a fascinating collection of art, science, and natural history exhibits at the Bruce Museum.

 

Once you’re here, there’s even more to offer to people living in Greenwich, regardless of wealth. There are plenty of other cultural options such as the Greenwich Library. And you’ll discover beautiful architecture to enjoy, including the various churches in town like First Presbyterian Church a few blocks from us. You’ll also find plenty of outdoor areas to enjoy, from our CT beaches to our many parks scattered around town.

And the food is excellent. There are options for any budget, and the caliber of both food and service can match the best establishments in New York City. From French restaurants in Greenwich CT to Indian restaurants in Greenwich, there are plenty of restaurants in Greenwich CT to try.

 

Convinced yet? Come for a visit, book at one of the best hotels in Greenwich, CT, and see what the hype is about.

 

Then, do your research and learn more about the Greenwich real estate market before you dive-in.

 

And while you’re here, be sure to come check us out at the Stanton House Inn. We’re centrally located to any point in town in downtown Greenwich on a classic street with impressive homes characteristic of this town. And we’ve got plenty of local knowledge, to boot, after decades of experience living here.

 

Updated and republished: September 25, 2023