Long considered a vibrant, thriving community, Bristol, Connecticut has recently been in the national spotlight: in 2010, Money Magazine named it one of America’s “Best Places to Live.” For your next Connecticut move, consider buying a home in Bristol – it’s sure to be a wonderful place to work and raise your family.
Bristol’s many nicknames include “Bell City” and “Mum City” because of the city’s long history of producing doorbells and chrysanthemums, respectively. Its rich past is celebrated annually at the Bristol Mum Festival, which is now in its fiftieth year. The city houses The American Clock and Watch Museum, which pays tribute to Bristol’s past as a major clock manufacturer.
Today’s the city is known for something more modern – sports broadcasting. ESPN’s main studios are located in Bristol, making the cable sports station the city’s largest employer. Other notable employers in the area include Otis Elevator Company and CIGNA Insurance.
Bristol prides itself on being beautiful and well-kept. In the early 1990s, the Blight Committee was formed to ensure the buildings in the area stay maintained. Dilapidated properties that aren’t being used are demolished or renovated by today’s version of the Blight Committee, the Bristol Code Enforcement Committee. The city has also focused on renovating the downtown area recently, making improvements to buildings, parks and other public spaces.
Buying a home in Bristol costs slightly less than $200,000 on average. You might also want to consider looking at foreclosures in the area – there are currently 108 foreclosed homes on the market, so your family might be able to save some money when moving to Connecticut.
Families have many educational options in Bristol, since there are both public and private schools in the area. The public school system encompasses ten elementary schools, three middle schools and two high schools. Private school options include four elementary and middle schools and one high school.
Whether you’re moving in from out of state or relocating within Connecticut, consider Bristol next time you’re buying a home. It’s a beautiful community in western Connecticut with a rich, vibrant history – just perfect for raising a family.
