Bristol, CT vs West Haven, CT

Bristol, CT and West Haven, CT have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3.7% difference in their overall index. Bristol scores 95 while West Haven scores 99 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Bristol is $1,305/month compared to $1,389/month in West Haven — a 6% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Bristol is more affordable at $252,300 median vs $265,200.

Median household income in Bristol is $83,458 compared to $73,566 in West Haven (+13.4%). Bristol offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Bristol spend roughly 18.8% of their income on rent, less than the 22.7% in West Haven.