Overview
Coventry is a town in Tolland County, Connecticut. The town's historical landmarks and abundant outdoor recreation make Coventry an ideal retirement destination. Not only that, but Coventry has local wineries, seasonal events, and close proximity to the amenities of Hartford.
Climate & Geography
Located in Central Connecticut, Coventry has a humid continental climate. Summers are warm to hot while winters are cold and snowy. Precipitation is high throughout the year, resulting in 50 inches of rain and 36 inches of snow.
Coventry's terrain is characterized by flat plains. The Wangumbaug Lake is at the center of the town, and the Nathan Hale State Forest borders the southwest portion of Coventry.
Recreation, Culture & Entertainment
Residents have plenty of opportunities to get outside in Coventry. Popular activities include walking and biking through the Hop River State Park Trail, fishing at Mansfield Hollow State Park, swimming at Patriots Park, and exploring the trails of Nathan Hale State Forest.
In addition to its outdoor appeal, Coventry has several local historic sites, including the Nathan Hale Homestead, The Strong-Porter Museum, and The Brick Schoolhouse. Other amenities include numerous vineyards and wineries, a farmers market, and community events like fireworks in the park.
For more shopping and dining options, residents head a half-hour to Hartford.
Cost of Living & Taxes
Coventry’s overall cost of living is slightly higher than the national average but right on par with the rest of the state. Housing costs are below average, but utility and transportation costs are above average.
Connecticut does not tax Social Security for retirees with income levels below $50,000 for single filers and $60,000 for joint filers. Military pensions, however, are untaxed. All other forms of retirement income are fully taxed at rates ranging from 3 percent to 6.99 percent. Property taxes in Connecticut are higher than average, and retirees may be eligible for a circuit breaker tax credit. There is a statewide sales tax rate of 6.35 percent.
Health Care
The Hartford metro area ranks in the top 100 communities and Connecticut ranks in the top 16 states on Gallup's Well-Being Index.
The closest hospitals rated high performing by U.S. News are a half-hour away in Hartford. These include Hartford Hospital and St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center.