Nestled along Connecticut’s coastline, Norwalk is increasingly recognized as one of the best places to live, work, and play. Recently highlighted by Fortune as Connecticut’s top city for families—and ranked 29th nationwide—Norwalk has captured the attention of locals and visitors alike. As Mayor Harry Rilling put it in the “I Love Norwalk” campaign video, “Norwalk has been on the rise for quite some time, and it’s clear that people are noticing.” Here’s what makes Norwalk such an incredible place to call home.
A Place Welcoming to All
Diversity and inclusivity are foundational in Norwalk, and the city’s multicultural community adds a richness that’s felt in every neighborhood. The Hispanic community, making up almost 31% of Norwalk’s population, brings unique perspectives and cultural contributions that enhance the city’s identity. This is reflected in Norwalk’s education system, led by Dr. Alexandra Estrella, a first-generation Latina-American who joined as superintendent in 2020. Under her leadership, Norwalk Public Schools have implemented a transformative five-year strategic plan focused on equity, diversity, and preparing students for a globalized world.
The district’s Silvermine Dual Language Magnet School is one example of Norwalk’s commitment to bilingualism and multiculturalism. Starting in kindergarten, students at Silvermine are immersed in an English-Spanish dual language program, preparing them to be bilingual, bi-literate, and culturally competent citizens, ready to succeed in an increasingly global society.
Art and Culture Brought to Life
Norwalk’s vibrant art scene adds another layer of character to the city. The recent “Welcome to Norwalk” mural on West Avenue, painted by internationally renowned artists Sonny Behan and Ernesto Maranje, is a striking example. What was once a gray, nondescript wall beneath Interstate 95 has transformed into a colorful tribute to the city, featuring local wildlife such as cardinals, rabbits, jellyfish, and harbor seals. The bright pink background, adorned with delicate foliage, brings a burst of color to the area, celebrating Norwalk’s natural beauty. Ernesto Maranje, a Cuban-American artist with a passion for wildlife-inspired murals, discovered his calling for art while serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, and his work now graces cities worldwide.
For Norwalk’s Arts and Culture Commission, selecting Behan and Maranje was about more than just beautifying the city; it was a way to embody Norwalk’s spirit of diversity and creativity through public art.
I Love Norwalk Video
A Community Built for Families
Norwalk’s family-friendly vibe is felt in all aspects of the city, from its parks to its bustling events calendar. Norwalk’s first Latina First Lady, Lucia Rilling, dedicates her time to uplifting the community and responding to residents’ needs, furthering Norwalk’s reputation as a welcoming and inclusive city.
Norwalk also offers plenty of family-centered attractions, with the Maritime Aquarium being a standout. Here, children can explore exhibits featuring sharks, jellyfish, and seals, offering both education and entertainment. Norwalk’s proximity to the water and its beautiful parks provide ample space for families to gather, play, and enjoy time together outdoors.
A City on the Rise
“Norwalk is probably the most popular city in our state. Everybody wants to be in Norwalk, you’ve made it a very welcoming place,” said Governor Ned Lamont in the “I Love Norwalk” campaign video, underscoring the city’s reputation. Norwalk continues to earn recognition for its quality of life, with recent accolades including a spot on Livability.com’s top 100 best places to live in the U.S. and Connecticut Insider’s ranking as the top city in Connecticut for quality of life. In addition, Hearst Connecticut Media recently ranked Norwalk No. 1 out of 25 Connecticut cities for quality of life.
This energy and community spirit are deeply rooted in Norwalk’s history. Known as “Oyster Town,” Norwalk has long been celebrated as the oyster capital of the world—a title it’s held since the late 1800s. The city even rebranded itself in 2016 as “The Sound of Connecticut,” a nod to its coastal charm and maritime heritage. However, the old logo, which prominently featured the Maritime Aquarium’s IMAX theater, has become outdated, as the theater is being demolished to make way for the Walk Bridge project.
With its commitment to diversity, vibrant arts scene, and family-friendly atmosphere, Norwalk stands out as a city on the rise. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, there are endless reasons to love Norwalk—a place where community, culture, and opportunity come together.