From Metro-North express trains to scenic drives along the Merritt Parkway, explore how Connecticut’s suburbs keep you close to the city
When you think about moving to Connecticut, the first thing that comes to mind might be the charm—tree-lined streets, great schools, and space to spread out. However, the commute is one key piece of the puzzle that can make or break suburban living. Whether you’re hopping on a train, navigating scenic parkways, or even considering a bus or ferry, how you get to work (and back) plays a huge role in your day-to-day life. Luckily, Connecticut offers a range of commuting options to fit every lifestyle. Here’s what you need to know as you explore towns that balance suburban ease and city convenience.
Metro-North Railroad: The Core of Connecticut Commutes
For many, Metro-North Railroad is the go-to option for commuting into Manhattan, offering fast, reliable service across three lines: the New Haven Line, New Canaan Branch, and Danbury Branch. With frequent express and local options, it’s a commuter’s lifeline to Grand Central Terminal.
New Haven Line: The Heavy Hitter
The New Haven Line is the busiest and most popular route for Connecticut commuters. Some standout towns along the way:
Greenwich:
With three stations—Greenwich, Cos Cob, and Riverside—this town is a commuter’s dream. The main Greenwich Station offers express rides to Grand Central in about 45 minutes, while Cos Cob and Riverside provide convenient access for surrounding neighborhood residents.
Stamford:
As a major transit hub, Stamford has trains to Grand Central in about 50 minutes, including frequent express options. The station also doubles as a transfer point for riders on the New Canaan or Danbury branches.
Darien:
With two stations—Darien and Noroton Heights—this charming town offers a 55-minute express ride to Manhattan.
Norwalk:
This town provides flexible commuter options and is home to multiple stations, including South Norwalk, East Norwalk, and Rowayton. South Norwalk is the main hub, and express trains to Grand Central take about an hour.
New Canaan Branch: Quiet and Connected
The New Canaan Branch links the picturesque town of New Canaan to Stamford, where commuters can connect to express trains on the New Haven Line. Stops include Springdale, Glenbrook, and Talmadge Hill. Total commutes to NYC average about 70 minutes.
Danbury Branch: A Northern Option
For those living further north, the Danbury Branch serves towns like Ridgefield and Bethel before connecting to the New Haven Line at South Norwalk. It’s a great option for families seeking quieter living while maintaining access to NYC.
Driving to NYC: Scenic Routes and Park-and-Ride Options
For drivers, Connecticut’s network of highways and parkways provides efficient and scenic routes to the city:
- I-95: Running along the coast, I-95 connects southern Fairfield County towns like Greenwich, Stamford, and Norwalk directly to Manhattan.
- Merritt Parkway: This historic parkway offers a tree-lined, low-traffic alternative to I-95, ideal for inland commuters.
- Route 15 (Hutchinson River Parkway): Convenient for western Fairfield County residents, Route 15 directly connects to NYC with fewer commercial vehicles.
Park-and-ride lots near many Metro-North stations make combining driving with train travel easy, offering flexibility for busy families.
Parking Permits
Parking near train stations can be tricky, depending on the town. Here’s what to know:
Greenwich:
Permits are in high demand, but daily parking is available at Greenwich, Cos Cob, and Riverside stations. If you’re applying for a permit, be prepared for a waitlist.
Stamford Station offers ample parking, including garages with daily, monthly, and yearly options. Its size and frequent service make it a commuter favorite.
Darien’s stations have smaller lots that fill up quickly, but South Norwalk Station offers larger parking facilities, making it a more convenient choice.
Unique Features for Drivers
Connecticut offers perks that can make driving a little easier:
Park-and-Ride Lots:
These lots are conveniently located near train stations and highways, allowing commuters to switch seamlessly from driving to public transit.
Carpool Lanes:
Some highways, including I-95, have high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes that provide a faster option during rush hour.
Jitney Services:
Towns like Greenwich and Darien offer shuttle services to train stations, eliminating parking stress and saving time.
Bus Options: Affordable and Flexible
Connecticut’s bus network offers an affordable alternative to trains and cars:
This public bus system connects local towns to hubs like Stamford and Norwalk, where commuters can transfer to Metro-North.
Greyhound and Peter Pan offer direct routes from Stamford and Bridgeport to Manhattan, making them great options for occasional trips.
The Scenic Route: Ferry Services
While not as common as other commuting options, ferries offer a scenic way to reach NYC or Long Island. The Bridgeport-Port Jefferson Ferry connects Bridgeport, CT, to Port Jefferson, NY, providing a relaxed alternative for weekend getaways or the occasional commute.
The Final Word: Picking the Right Commute
When picking the right Connecticut town to call “home,” understanding the commute is key. Do you prefer the speed and reliability of express trains? The flexibility of driving? Or perhaps the affordability of buses? With Connecticut’s extensive commuting options, finding a town that works for your family’s lifestyle and needs is easy.
For more insights, visit SJ’s New York City suburbs section and our website’s New York City blog page.
Ready to find your perfect Connecticut suburb? Let’s talk! Schedule a free initial strategy call today and discover how Connecticut’s commutable towns can offer you the best of suburban living with easy access to NYC.
