Shelton, CT vs West Haven, CT

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. West Haven is 22.5% cheaper than Shelton. With a cost index of 99 vs 121, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from West Haven to Shelton should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Shelton is $1,661/month compared to $1,389/month in West Haven — a 20% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: West Haven is more affordable at $265,200 median vs $435,700.

Median household income in Shelton is $114,739 compared to $73,566 in West Haven (+56%). While Shelton is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Shelton spend roughly 17.4% of their income on rent, less than the 22.7% in West Haven.