5 Reasons People Move to Naugatuck

If you’re looking for a place to live that’s bursting with a community feel, a great location, and tons of personality, then Naugatuck is the location for you. With all the charm of a small New England town and the benefits of being near bigger cities, Naugatuck is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. With a population of just over 31,000 residents, there’s no shortage of neighbors to meet and form lasting friendships and memories with. Naugatuck also boasts a rich history and a vibrant community that often comes together for local events, drawing in not only the locals but also attendees from surrounding towns. Read on for the top 5 reasons to move to “Naugy,” a town that’s much loved by its residents and leaders:

1. Amazing Location

2. History and Architecture

The history buff will love walking around Naugatuck’s picturesque town green and appreciating the Central Historic District, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. The town’s central green boasts 11 buildings that were commissioned by McKim, Mead, and White, a renowned architectural firm that gave Naugatuck its unique look and feel. Known as the Rubber City, one of Naugatuck’s claims to fame is as the birthplace of modern rubber products after Charles Goodyear patented vulcanized rubber and made the material usable in a variety of ways. With an active historical society that is passionate about preserving Naugatuck’s unique history, you can learn so much about the town you’re choosing to call home.

3. Community Feel and Events

Naugatuck’s community spirit is alive and well, and it continues to grow through the efforts of local leadership. The town is proud to host several community events throughout the year, including its popular downtown festivals, farmers markets, and evenings out that promote local vendors, restaurants, and more. Embracing its Rubber City nickname, one of the biggest events of the year is the annual Duck Day hosted by the chamber of commerce, where thousands of rubber ducks race for a chance to win their owner amazing prizes as residents enjoy crafters, vendors, food, and entertainment. Along with the great events, the small town feel is strengthened by the fact that Naugatuck has one high school where all students will convene for some of their most formative years, meaning that you’ll be familiar with almost all of your peers in town by the time you graduate.

4. Outdoor Spaces

If you love to be outside, you’ll love Naugatuck. With an abundance of parks and wonderful hiking trails, you’ll never get tired of exploring Connecticut’s natural beauty. Perhaps you’ll find a trail you love in the Naugatuck State Forest, or maybe you’ll enjoy some time at the Whittemore Glen State Park Scenic Reserve. The town also boasts a golf course, a community garden, a dog park, and an outdoor ice skating rink, so there’s plenty of opportunities to get outside regardless of your interests. There are a variety of classes and events hosted by the town’s Parks and Recreation Department to help you get out and enjoy all that the town has to offer. 

5. Local Businesses

Every town has some much-loved local businesses, and Naugatuck’s are second to none. The legendary Nardelli’s Grinder Shoppe has its corporate headquarters in Naugatuck and has been voted CT’s Best Grinder for so many years in a row, their name has become synonymous with top quality for locals. Other local institutions, including Ion Bank, have been serving the community for generations and have a longstanding commitment to giving back to residents. Whether it’s the local boutique, florist, photographer or car dealership, Naugatuck’s business leaders are extremely community-minded and willing to support efforts to keep the town vibrant and thriving.

Is Naugatuck, CT Safe?

Naugatuck is considered a relatively safe place to live, with both violent and property crime rates lower than the national average. The Naugatuck Police Department works to keep the community informed with a regularly updated website and social media alerts. The police department also offers online and in-person resources to help residents stay safe. For the latest information and crime statistics, visit naugatuck-ct.gov.