Guilford, CT Recap: Moving to a Winter Climate?
Discovering Guilford, CT: A Month-Long Adventure in New England Charm
When Denise and James, hosts of the Skip Town All Stars podcast, decided to spend a month living in Guilford, Connecticut, they embarked on an adventure filled with New England charm, friendly locals, and a few unexpected challenges. In this episode, the couple shares their firsthand experience of what it's like to live in this picturesque coastal town.
One of the first things Denise and James noticed about Guilford was the welcoming community. Denise quickly formed a friendship with Stephanie Huffman, a local hair salon owner who provided invaluable insights into the town's history and culture. James, too, found it easy to strike up conversations with locals at the gym and around town. The couple agreed that the friendly atmosphere was a significant factor in their enjoyment of Guilford.
However, their search for a home in Guilford proved to be more challenging than anticipated. With limited inventory and high demand, finding a suitable property within their budget was difficult. They shared a story about a real estate agent who was less than helpful, refusing to post more than four photos of a house online. This experience highlighted the competitive nature of the Guilford real estate market and the importance of working with a knowledgeable, supportive agent.
Despite the housing challenges, Denise and James found plenty to love about Guilford. The downtown area, with its charming square and walkable streets, was a favorite spot for the couple. They appreciated the variety of local businesses, including the Nut Plains Farm, where they could purchase fresh produce, baked goods, and even maple syrup on an honor system.
Guilford's proximity to water was another significant draw for Denise and James. With both beaches and lakes nearby, they enjoyed the opportunity to connect with nature and take part in activities like clamming. The town's location also offered easy access to New Haven, just a short 20-minute drive away, providing a perfect balance of small-town charm and big-city amenities.
Throughout their month-long stay, Denise and James embraced the local lifestyle. They acted like locals, shopping at the farmers' market, dining at local restaurants, and even visiting a dentist in town. This immersive experience gave them a genuine sense of what it would be like to make Guilford their permanent home.
However, not everything about Guilford was perfect. Denise expressed concern about the presence of ticks in the area and the potential for contracting Lyme disease. As an avid hiker, she worried about how to enjoy the numerous trails without putting herself at risk. Additionally, the couple noticed some inconsistencies in the architectural aesthetics of the town, with certain homes not fitting in with the historical character of the area.
In conclusion, Denise and James's month-long stay in Guilford, CT, provided a wealth of insights into the town's real estate market, lifestyle, and community. While they faced challenges in finding a home and had some concerns about ticks, the overall experience was positive. The friendly locals, beautiful downtown, proximity to water, and access to New Haven made Guilford an appealing potential hometown for the couple. As they continue their search for the perfect place to settle down, Guilford remains a strong contender, offering a charming New England lifestyle that left a lasting impression on both Denise and James.
5. 10 Fun Facts about Guilford, CT:
1. Guilford was founded in 1639, making it one of the oldest towns in Connecticut.
2. The town is home to the historic Guilford Green, which dates back to the 17th century and is recognized as a National Historic Landmark.
3. Guilford is known for its annual Agricultural Fair, which has been held every September since 1859.
4. The town boasts several scenic hiking trails, including the Westwoods Trail System and the Timberlands Hiking Trail.
5. Guilford is home to the historic Hyland House, built in 1660, which is one of the oldest stone houses in New England.
6. The town's Grass Island Natural Area Preserve offers a unique coastal habitat with salt marshes and a variety of bird species.
7. Guilford has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, studios, and the Guilford Art Center, which offers classes and workshops.
8. The town is known for its excellent seafood, with several local restaurants serving fresh catches from the nearby Long Island Sound.
9. Guilford is home to the Dudley Farm Museum, a historic farm complex that showcases life in the 19th century.
10. The town hosts the Guilford Performing Arts Festival, a multi-day event featuring music, dance, theater, and more.
6. 10 Facts about Real Estate, Median Income, Crime, and Lifestyle in Guilford, CT:
1. The median home value in Guilford is $399,000, which is higher than the national median of $217,500 (Zillow, 2021).
2. The median household income in Guilford is $104,222, compared to the national median of $62,843 (U.S. Census Bureau, 2019).
3. Guilford has a low crime rate, with a violent crime rate of 0.41 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 6.41 per 1,000 residents (FBI Crime Data, 2019).
4. The town is known for its excellent public school system, with Guilford High School consistently ranking among the top high schools in Connecticut.
5. Guilford's economy is diverse, with a mix of small businesses, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions.
6. The town has a high homeownership rate of 83.1%, compared to the national average of 64.1% (U.S. Census Bureau, 2019).
7. Guilford is a popular destination for retirees, with 21.5% of the population aged 65 or older (U.S. Census Bureau, 2019).
8. The town offers a variety of recreational activities, including beaches, marinas, golf courses, and parks.
9. Guilford has a low unemployment rate of 3.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7% (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020).
10. The town is considered a safe and family-friendly community, with a strong sense of community involvement and volunteerism.