2 Communities in Ridgefield
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Overview
Ridgefield is a residential town in the Stamford metro area of Connecticut, along the border of Eastern New York. It is popular for its abundant outdoor recreation, from state parks to numerous lakes. In addition, its distinct districts, offering local boutiques, restaurants, and seasonal events make it a popular destination for retirees seeking a vibrant and active community.
Climate & Geography
Located in Western Connecticut north of the coastline, Ridgefield has a humid continental climate. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are cold. There is more than average rainfall and snowfall throughout the year, caused in part by coastal storms and nor'easters.
Ridgefield is in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains with hilly, very rocky terrain. It is 15 miles north of the Long Island Sound, and the large body of water helps slightly reduce extreme temperatures.
Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment
With numerous parks, lakes, and state parks, there is no shortage of outdoor recreation in Ridgefield. Just south of the town is the Devil’s Den Nature Preserve, with miles of trails and habitats for hiking and wildlife viewing. Residents can also hike at Hemlock Hills and Seth Low Pierrepont State Park, both in the north end of the town. In addition, there are several bodies of water that offer fishing and boating, including Round Pond, Mamanasco Lake, Lake Naraneka, Fox Hill Lake, and more.
Ridgefield is divided into four districts, with the Main Street District being the central downtown area. This district has local shops and restaurants as well as seasonal Holiday Strolls, which are festivals with local performers and workshops. The Copps Hill District has The Marketplace, a shopping center with independent stores and gourmet restaurants, and Branchville has a brewery and a train station for easy travel.
Other popular amenities in Ridgefield include two golf courses, the 12-acre Garden of Ideas, theaters, and a playhouse. Even more amenities, including farmers markets and more shopping centers are found in nearby Danbury and Stamford.
Cost of Living & Taxes
The cost of living in Ridgefield is higher than the national average because of very high housing costs. Additionally, transportation, utilities, and groceries are above average.
Connecticut taxes Social Security Benefits, but it is exempted to a certain limit, which is $50,000 for single filers and $60,000 for joint filers. All other forms of retirement income are fully taxed. The state has high property taxes, but retirees may be eligible for a property tax credit through the state's Circuit Breaker program. Sales taxes in the state are average.
Health Care
According to Gallup’s Well-Being Index, the Stamford metro area ranks in the top 31 communities in the country.
There are no hospitals in Ridgefield, but there are several hospitals in nearby cities that U.S. News rates as high performing. These include Danbury Hospital in Danbury, Norwalk Hospital in Norwalk, Stamford Hospital in Stamford, and St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport.