Do you want small-town culture and all the perks of close neighborly ties? Does New England-style living, with its historic Victorian homes and brick-paved streets, appeal to you? The Windham region in Eastern Connecticut is quintessentially New England from its look to its recreational activities. Every corner, every hitching post, and every covered bridge has a story to tell. But it’s not stuck in the past; modern Windham has grown into a lively place while keeping its friendly small-town culture. Learn about living in Windham, CT, and its charms.

About Windham

Tucked in the forests and farms of northeastern Connecticut sits Windham. Established back in 1692, the colonial styling and village vibes put the “charm” in New England “charm.” Originally, Windham was several separate villages and the seat for Windham County. They flourished at the confluence of the Natchaug and Willimantic Rivers, turning into the meandering Shetucket. But in the 1980s, the villages consolidated into one: Windham. Locals still use the original town names to describe where they live, work, and play: North Windham, South Windham, Windham Center, and Willimantic. 

Each section has its own charm, historic downtown centers, and appeal. Willimantic is more developed, as that’s where the college campus lies. Windham sits in the peaceful farmland, while South Windham overlooks the Shetucket River. 

Windham is nicknamed “Thread City” because the region was once a top producer of thread for clothes. Its production made it a national industry leader through the Second World War. That thread business has since moved on, but Windham still has the stability of its college and being a regional center for services and entertainment. Around 25,000 people call the quiet hills of Windham home.

Windham Cost of Living

When it comes to your budget, Windham is a breath of fresh air. Connecticut’s average costs run 12% over the national average, but Windham’s cost of living is right on the number. Your overall spending here will align with what most people pay in the US.

Lower housing costs drive Windham’s excellent affordability. Making the town your Connecticut home is smart for those looking for more space at a reasonable cost. 

The savings on housing expenses help balance out the other costs that do run above average. Windham residents tend to spend more on health care and utilities than elsewhere in America. 

Windham Weather

Like most of Connecticut, locals get to enjoy all four seasons in their full glory. Winter sees average snowfall inches around 38-39, with January receiving the most. It melts away into spring’s “mud season,” as temperatures warm into the 60s and 70s before peaking in July at an average high of 83F. May is the rainiest month, typically recording precipitation on nine days. Then warmth melts into beautiful fall days, with crisp days averaging highs in the 50s and beckoning you to enjoy pumpkin spice.

Keep Learning in Windham

Three higher education options give northeast Connecticut access to job training and career preparation. Quinebaug Valley Community College is an affordable option for two-year degrees and specialized certificates. Eastern Connecticut State University may feel like a private college because of its smaller size and town setting. However, it’s actually a public option with incredibly diverse choices in courses of study. Undergraduates pursue any of over 40 majors and an additional 60 minors. ECSU has a high four-year graduation rate, too. Its presence gives Windham a university town atmosphere.

The University of Connecticut’s main campus expands options for higher education to students. It’s in Storrs, which is about ten miles north of Windham. The school ranked ninth in the Wall Street Journal’s evaluation of public universities. Students study in 14 schools and colleges with 129 fields of study to pursue.

For public education in grades PK-12, Windham Public Schools may be a small district of just seven schools, but it has nationally recognized STEM and Dual Language magnet programs. Students in grades 9-12 can take advantage of the early college option, too.

Additionally, EastConn runs nonprofit education programs with 36 school systems and 83 individual schools. In Windham, it operates the Arts at the Capitol Theater (ACT), a public performing arts magnet school free to Connecticut students. It also has the Windham Technical High School for students in grades 9-12 to learn in career-oriented and trade-based studies.  

Windham Job Market

Back in the day, Windham was a leading manufacturer of thread and textiles. It even had the first mill with electric lights. 

Although the manufacturing base has shifted from textiles, it’s still ever-present and represents 29% of the local job market. A powerhouse of essential manufacturers includes Prysmian Group, Westminster Tool, United Abrasives, Whitcraft, Spirol, and UA/SAIT. 

However, other businesses have found room to thrive in Windham. It has a business campus near the heart of downtown. Healthcare and social assistance work drive 40% of the local economy. Education takes up another large chunk, with ECSU being the top employer in terms of the number of people employed.

Community Perks

Windham invests back in its community, which is why it’s kept that neighborly feel through the decades. Among today’s efforts are the Willimantic Renaissance, a nonprofit organization working to revitalize Willimantic’s downtown as a holistic community space. 

Check it out by heading into town on the Third Thursday for the monthly Street Fest. Organized by Willimantic Renaissance, it runs through the summer. Main Street becomes a festive scene with regional crafters, kid’s activities, live music, and local food. It’s completely free to attend.

The Willimantic Farmers Market runs throughout the year. It moves indoors during the colder months and then returns to the beautiful outside in the late spring.

Shaboo Stage is one of Connecticut’s largest outdoor stages. It’s in Jillison Square, where the city hosts many community events. That includes the Thread City Hop Fest, which brings over 60 local brewers and distilleries for a nonprofit event. May brings the Willimantic Carnival, a riot of color and fun. 

The Boom Box Parade is a fun twist on a small-town Fourth of July parade. The story goes that no marching band could be found, so a local radio station blasted music on air while the attendees of Boom Boxes. 

The Windham Textile and History Museum is a must-visit if you like museums. Housed in what’s left of the huge Willimantic Linen Company Mill are replicas from the factory, examples of boarding houses, and stories of life working in a mill. 

The Prospect Hill Historic District has Connecticut’s largest concentrations of Victorian-styled homes. A walking tour is a must if you like architecture, especially historic homes. The ornate details range in the styles of the period’s heyday. Marvel at how lovingly these homes have been preserved. 

Windham Outside

Windham has ten community parks. Lauter has the most amenities, like a splash pad for those hot summer days, kayak launching, a skateboard park, and a BMX park. The coolest venue is the Garden on the Bridge. The historic pedestrian bridge is a park with three acres, multi-colored paver bricks, and visually stunning details like archways and granite planters. 

Get fit and meet your neighbors through the recreation center programming. The center activities include toddler time, general swim hours, drop-in basketball and pickleball, fitness classes, aquatics and yoga, and rentable spaces. 

The Willimantic River is a beautiful place to spend a day. Water rushes over the granite ledges to create Willimantic Falls. Over 80 feet, the watercourse drops a mile, creating class II and III. Whitewater kayakers come year-round to test their skills and have fun. Three parks run along the river; the one along Bridge Street is being developed into a beautiful community park. 

The Air Line State Park Trail is a true treasure for spending a day outside. This multi-use path runs 50 miles through Connecticut. Sections are accessible by horseback, cyclists, walkers, and skaters. It was built on a rail line that once connected New York and Boston; today, it winds through the beautiful countryside, along and over the creek, and through wildlife preserves. 

Living in Windham, CT

The classic New England landscapes, lively festivals, and welcoming community make Windham a charming place to live. As a bonus, it’s one of the more affordable towns in Connecticut. Let Windham’s warm and friendly nature lure you in. Come explore it with a local real estate agent.