Population 885,368
Area 659 square miles

Chamber of Commerce
10 Middle Street
Bridgeport 203-335-3800
www.brbc.org

Southwestern Region Tourism
297 West Avenue
Norwalk 203-840-0770
www.coastalct.com

Major Highways
Interstate 95; Merritt Parkway; State Route 8; U.S. Routes 6 and 7


Situated in the southwestern corner of Connecticut, Fairfield County is often dubbed the “Gold Coast” for its enviable reputation as the wealthiest region in the nation’s wealthiest state. Much of the affluence in this area is due to the county’s close proximity to New York City and the influx of Manhattan commuters. However, the lineup of local corporations is equally impressive, including national leaders like General Electric and Xerox.

With the skyline of Manhattan in sight, Fairfield County is both prosperous and populous. Each one of its towns boasts a distinctive personality, ranging from rural and suburban to bustling cosmopolitan centers. The scenery may vary, but each community shares in the commitment to provide an exceptional quality of life.

Services

Efficient highways, railroads and airports serve the area, providing commuters with the convenient choice of highway networks, commuter air travel, passenger rail, or vanpools. Limousines serve state-of-the-art airports in New York and New Jersey that include John F. Kennedy, LaGuardia, and Newark International. Private charter flights and commuter flights are available from local airports in Connecticut and New York. Metro-North’s New Haven Line provides commuter rail service, while interstate travel is available through the services of Amtrak passenger rail. Fixed-route buses serve the urban centers of the county and provide access to neighboring suburban towns.

Considered one of Fairfield County’s most consistent strengths is the high quality of its educational system, recognized as one of the nation’s finest. Award-winning public schools combine with famous private schools for a full range of alternatives. The choices for higher education and adult education are virtually unlimited in this geographic area filled with prestigious institutions of higher learning. Healthcare facilities tend to be equally prestigious, from state-of-the-art teaching hospitals and medical centers to emergency clinics, family practice clinics, long-term care, home care, and every imaginable specialization.

Lifestyle

Widely recognized as one of America’s finest residential areas, Fairfield’s unique geographic location harmonizes peaceful country living with easy access to key destinations in New York, New Jersey, and Rhode Island. With the introduction of mass transit, the area quickly became an elite “bedroom” community for thousands of wealthy New York executives. Attracted by the unparalleled quality of life, many top economic leaders decided to move their businesses closer to home, creating a strong corporate presence in Fairfield County.

This pattern continues today, as Fortune 500 and multi-national corporations relocate their headquarters and key operations to this area’s restful combination of rolling hills, woodlands, lakes and shorelines. With the county’s exceptionally well-educated and sophisticated population, it is not surprising that the creative arts are strongly supported. Fairfield County’s impressive list of cultural and artistic centers includes the Aldrich Museum of Contemporary Art, the Bruce Museum, and the Lockwood-Matthews Mansion.

Active historical societies, antique districts, modern malls, fine dining, fascinating museums, and performing arts are just a few of the outstanding amenities. Recreational opportunities are second to none, including public and private clubs that cater to every possible interest. The tranquil beaches of Long Island Sound offer a playground where water sports abound, from boating and fishing to windsurfing. Winter months invite cross-country and downhill skiing, as well as enjoying ice hockey and ice skating.

Residents of this area can choose from a kaleidoscope of quality lifestyles, since communities span the spectrum of possible environments. Coastal cities provide rich water-sport opportunities, while equestrian attractions and serene woodland beauty are characteristic of the panoramic rural areas. Suburbs feature upscale residential villages that mingle with first-rate retail and service conveniences. Cosmopolitan urban centers offer abundant employment, while secluded havens attract nature enthusiasts. Regardless of the season, Fairfield County remains the epitome of “the good life.”

**INFORMATION PROVIDED BY CTINFO.COM