List of Counties in Connecticut
Connecticut is unique in that it has 8 counties, but they no longer serve governmental functions. Instead, cities and towns manage most local governance. However, the counties still exist for administrative purposes. The largest counties by population are Fairfield County, Hartford County, New Haven County, New London County, Litchfield County, Middlesex County, Tolland County, and Windham County. Fairfield County, which includes cities like Bridgeport and Stamford, is the most populous due to its proximity to New York City and large suburban population.
List of All Counties in Connecticut
- Fairfield County, Connecticut
- Hartford County, Connecticut
- Litchfield County, Connecticut
- Middlesex County, Connecticut
- New Haven County, Connecticut
- New London County, Connecticut
- Tolland County, Connecticut
- Windham County, Connecticut
1. Litchfield County
Overview
Litchfield County, located in the northwestern corner of Connecticut, is the largest county in the state by land area. It is bordered by Massachusetts to the north and New York to the west. Litchfield County is known for its rolling hills, forests, and small-town charm, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation and rural tourism. Historically, the county played a significant role in early American manufacturing, particularly in iron production during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, it maintains a mix of agriculture, tourism, and small industries. There is no official county seat as Connecticut abolished county government in 1960, but the towns of Litchfield and Torrington serve as major hubs.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 180,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: No official seat; Litchfield and Torrington are major hubs
- Major Airports: Waterbury-Oxford Airport (regional), Bradley International Airport (nearby)
- Major Highways: US-202, US-7, CT-8, I-84 (nearby access)
2. Hartford County
Overview
Hartford County is centrally located in Connecticut, with its county seat in Hartford, which is also the state capital. It is bordered by Massachusetts to the north and includes the Connecticut River running through the county. Hartford County is the second-largest in the state and a major economic and cultural hub. The city of Hartford is known as the “Insurance Capital of the World,” housing the headquarters of many major insurance companies. Historically, Hartford County played a pivotal role in colonial trade and industry, especially during the American Revolution. The county was established in 1666, making it one of the oldest counties in the United States.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 890,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Hartford
- Major Airports: Bradley International Airport
- Major Highways: I-91, I-84, US-44, US-5, CT-2
3. New Haven County
Overview
New Haven County, located along Connecticut’s southern coast on Long Island Sound, is one of the most populous counties in the state. It is bordered by Fairfield County to the west and Middlesex County to the east. The county seat is shared between New Haven and Waterbury, two of the county’s largest cities. New Haven is home to Yale University, one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the world, which has shaped the city’s cultural and economic identity. New Haven County has a long industrial history, particularly in the manufacturing of firearms and machinery during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Established in 1666, the county has evolved into a modern economic center with a diverse economy focused on education, healthcare, and technology.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 860,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: New Haven and Waterbury (dual seats)
- Major Airports: Tweed New Haven Regional Airport, Waterbury-Oxford Airport
- Major Highways: I-95, I-91, I-84, US-1, CT-15 (Merritt Parkway)
4. Fairfield County
Overview
Fairfield County is located in southwestern Connecticut, bordering New York State to the west and Long Island Sound to the south. The county is the most populous and one of the wealthiest in the state, with towns like Greenwich, Stamford, and Westport known for their affluent communities and proximity to New York City. Fairfield County has no official county seat, but major cities like Bridgeport, Stamford, and Norwalk are central economic hubs. The county has a strong economy driven by finance, hedge funds, and corporate headquarters, thanks to its location as part of the New York metropolitan area. Historically, the county has been a critical site for trade and manufacturing, especially during the colonial period and the Industrial Revolution.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 960,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: No official seat; Bridgeport, Stamford, and Norwalk are major cities
- Major Airports: Westchester County Airport (nearby in New York), Sikorsky Memorial Airport (Bridgeport)
- Major Highways: I-95, Merritt Parkway (CT-15), US-7, US-1
5. Windham County
Overview
Windham County is located in the northeastern part of Connecticut, bordering Massachusetts to the north and Rhode Island to the east. It is one of the most rural and least densely populated counties in the state, with an economy traditionally based on agriculture, textiles, and small manufacturing. The county seat is shared between the towns of Willimantic and Danielson. Windham County has a rich industrial history, particularly in textile manufacturing during the 19th century, when the region was known as the “Thread City.” Today, Windham County offers a quiet, rural lifestyle with a focus on local agriculture, outdoor activities, and small businesses.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 115,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Willimantic and Danielson (dual seats)
- Major Airports: Windham Airport
- Major Highways: I-395, US-6, CT-14, CT-32
6. New London County
Overview
New London County is located in southeastern Connecticut, along the shores of Long Island Sound and the Thames River. It is bordered by Rhode Island to the east and Middlesex County to the west. The county seat is shared between the cities of New London and Norwich. New London County has a rich maritime history, with the port of New London once being one of the busiest whaling ports in the world. Today, the county is home to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and the Naval Submarine Base in Groton, making it a significant center for maritime and defense activities. The county’s economy is also driven by tourism, healthcare, and small manufacturing. Established in 1666, New London County’s history is deeply tied to the sea, trade, and defense.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 270,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: New London and Norwich (dual seats)
- Major Airports: Groton-New London Airport
- Major Highways: I-95, I-395, US-1, CT-2, CT-32
7. Middlesex County
Overview
Middlesex County is located in the central part of Connecticut, bordered by Hartford County to the north and New London County to the south. The county is known for its picturesque rivers, particularly the Connecticut River, which flows through the county. Middletown, the largest city in the county, was historically an important river port and is home to Wesleyan University, a renowned liberal arts college. Middlesex County has a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with small towns and agricultural areas alongside the historic and cultural offerings of Middletown. The county’s economy is diverse, with education, healthcare, and light manufacturing playing important roles. Established in 1785, Middlesex County has a rich colonial history, especially in river trade and shipbuilding.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 165,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Middletown
- Major Airports: Hartford-Brainard Airport (nearby)
- Major Highways: I-91, CT-9, US-1, CT-66
8. Tolland County
Overview
Tolland County is located in the northeastern part of Connecticut, bordered by Massachusetts to the north and Hartford County to the west. It is one of the more rural counties in the state, with small towns and a focus on agriculture and local businesses. The county seat is shared between Rockville and Stafford Springs, both towns that played a significant role in Connecticut’s textile and manufacturing history. Tolland County is also home to the University of Connecticut in Storrs, which is a major educational and economic driver for the region. Established in 1785, the county has a long history of farming, textile production, and education.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 150,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Rockville and Stafford Springs (dual seats)
- Major Airports: Bradley International Airport (nearby)
- Major Highways: I-84, I-384, US-44, CT-74