Less than an hour from New York City, Greenwich encompasses acres of wild woodlands, several waterfront hamlets and beautiful beaches, lively downtown strips, and a population of about 63,000 people.
Its location along the coast on the southern tip of Connecticut and proximity to the largest city in the United States allow convenient access to a plethora of amenities, whether you’re a young professional or a family searching for a new community to settle down in.
Yet, depending on what exactly you’re seeking, a particular neighborhood in Greenwich might be a better fit for you. This article gives you an overview of the different neighborhoods within Greenwich and discusses the unique advantages each has to offer so that potential residents can discover the ideal home for them.
Why Choose a Neighborhood in Greenwich, CT?
Greenwich caters to a wide range of lifestyles and preferences. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for beachfront or countryside living; there is a Greenwich neighborhood just for you.
Each neighborhood offers something uniquely different for potential residents, providing them with opportunities to find a community best suited for them.
With easy access to New York City, highly-ranked schools, abundant recreational opportunities, and diverse cultural scenes, Greenwich checks off every box of priorities.
The Best Neighborhoods to Live in Greenwich, CT
Cos Cob
A shoreline neighborhood of Greenwich, Cos Cob is a quaint, close-knit community of around 7,000 people in southern Fairfield County.
Surrounded by the Cos Cob Harbor and the Mianus River, this neighborhood was founded as a shipping port for produce in the 17th or 18th century. It was home to an impressionist artist and writer colony at the Bush-Holley House, formerly called the “Holley House.”
The neighborhood lies within the nationally recognized Greenwich Public Schools district and offers plenty of amenities, such as outdoor spaces, including a marina, wildlife sanctuary, and pinetum.
The closeness to the diverse commercial strips of East Putnam Avenue and Greenwich Avenue provides an array of dining and shopping choices. The rich historical origins of the community take residents and visitors back in time with a museum commemorating the colony of artists and writers and a district decorated with colonial and Victorian-era architecture.
Learn more about living in Cos Cob, Connecticut
Riverside
East of the Cos Cob neighborhood lies Riverside, which emerged from the 17th century fishing and farming community of Mianus Neck. It was founded by Jeremiah Atwater, who began purchasing land and constructing residences in Mianus Neck and later partnered with Luke Vincent Lockwood to further develop the area.
Mianus Neck was later renamed to “Riverside” to draw in summer vacationers traveling from the city. A haven for lovers of outdoor activities, the community boasts numerous parks and beaches, including Binney Park and Harbor Point Beach, and a nature preserve.
Riverside’s downtown hub on E. Putnam Ave. hosts local businesses, a shopping center, upscale boutiques, fine culinary selections, and coffee shops. Sound Beach Avenue, Old Greenwich’s shopping district, is only a train ride away.
Learn more about living in Riverside, Connecticut
Old Greenwich
Old Greenwich is nestled along the Long Island Sound and considered Greenwich’s beach neighborhood. It is the oldest neighborhood in Greenwich, hence the “old” portion of its name.
Settlers from Massachusetts established Old Greenwich in 1640 when they purchased the land from the local Native Americans for the price of 25 coats. Renamed “Sound Beach” in the latter half of the 19th century, the name partially stuck in this day and age, with the neighborhood’s downtown shopping area named Sound Beach Avenue, which hosts a few charming local shops.
The commercial strip is also near E. Putnam Ave. and Greenwich Ave., other shopping hubs. Aside from shopping, Old Greenwich provides a few early education options for parents, whether that’s a public elementary school with a large international student population or a handful of nearby private schools.
For individuals seeking natural spots for retreat, the neighborhood houses the Laddin’s Rock Sanctuary and is close to a couple of parks and small beaches.
Learn more about living in Old Greenwich, Connecticut
Central Greenwich
Central Greenwich encompasses the main downtown area of this charming coastal community. While strolling downtown, residents and visitors can enjoy the historic architecture and brick buildings that dot the streets.
The vibrant strip of Greenwich Ave. arose from humble origins and has transformed into the thriving town center it is today. The area didn’t begin to flourish until the mid-1800s with the completion of the railroad line from New York City to New Haven. Wealthy business people from the city traveled to the area and built their vacation homes in what is now deemed as Central Greenwich.
The bustling downtown area boasts of upscale shops, such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Manfredi Jewels, and top-rated eateries, including The Cottage and The Ginger Man. Throughout the year, several festivals take place in the community, including the Greenwich Food and Wine Festival and the Greenwich International Film Festival, to name a few.
On the outskirts of the commercial district, residents can seek solace in the many natural open spaces, whether that’s to unwind or to partake in outdoor recreation.
Mid-Country
Located south of Merritt Parkway, this neighborhood is recognized for its peaceful country living, expansive spaces, and abundance of outdoor activities. A portion of this neighborhood was once known as the Golden Triangle, with North Street as the east boundary, Merritt Parkway as the north, and Round Hill Road as the west.
Mid-Country usually offers more space and privacy for residents compared to other Greenwich neighborhoods, features that attract some individuals to the particular area. There is also no shortage of scenic riding trails, golf courses, hiking locations, and country clubs, including the Burning Tree Country Club and Round Hill Club.
In addition to all the outdoor spaces, Mid-Country still provides quick, easy access to Greenwich’s many amenities. Mid-Country is less than a 10-minute drive to Greenwich Avenue, a renowned local hub for shopping, eating, and entertainment. The neighborhood is also close to restaurants and stores in Cos Cob and Glenville.
Glenville
Located in the western part of Greenwich, Glenville consists of a mix of commercial and residential properties, indicative of the neighborhood’s industrial history. It’s situated along the scenic Byram River and offers residents acres of town parks, waterfalls, and sprawling greenery.
The neighborhood, originally called “Sherwood’s Bridge,” was named after the Sherwood family members who resided in the area. As early as 1756, the name Glenville emerged for a single-room public school. Today, Glenville has around 3,000 people, contributing to its quaint, tight-knit village vibes.
Although small in size, local shops, community centers, and restaurants are sprinkled throughout Glenville. For example, a popular restaurant called Rebecca’s provides high-quality New American cuisine coupled with a cultured, sophisticated setting.
Those craving a more casual dining night out can stop by Glenville Pizza, another local favorite that carries a delicious array of Italian dishes and pizzas.
Back Country
Loyal to its name, the Back Country neighborhood sets aside the largest plots of land in Greenwich for residents, providing four acres of space due to zoning regulations and bountiful privacy and greenery for estates. It houses the first environmental educational center established by the National Audubon Society, a testament of the area’s dedication to nature.
The facility, the Greenwich Audubon Center, extends over 680 acres with miles and miles of hiking trails. A wildflower garden is situated less than a mile away from the center.
The expansive countryside also offers equestrians abundant space to ride horseback and breathe in the fresh, crisp air. And every Sunday, the Greenwich Polo Club participates in public matches.
Learn more about living in Back Country, Connecticut
Find the Right Neighborhood in Greenwich, CT for You
Whether you’re seeking a vibrant shopping district or a laid-back countryside, Greenwich has it all. The combination of urban convenience and suburban charm is an attraction for anyone looking for the buzz of a city or the hush of a remote area. If you’re thinking about moving to Greenwich or want to learn more, don’t be shy.
Chat with a local expert strategist to talk about your needs, explore your options further, and find the right neighborhood for you. Get started today!
