Stratford, Connecticut sits where the Housatonic River meets Long Island Sound, offering residents waterfront living with small-town charm. Founded in 1639, this historic town balances its rich past with modern appeal, featuring several beaches, the 250-acre Roosevelt Forest, and distinctive neighborhoods like Lordship with its shoreline views. Stratford's aviation legacy continues today with Sikorsky Aircraft headquarters, the town's largest employer, where every Marine One presidential helicopter has been manufactured since 1957.

Renters appreciate Stratford's diverse housing options across its walkable neighborhoods. Paradise Green offers a quaint shopping district with local bakeries, restaurants, and boutiques, while Stratford Center combines historic architecture with everyday amenities. The Stratford Library and numerous parks, including Short Beach and Long Beach, provide community gathering spaces. With average one-bedroom rentals around $2,033, Stratford provides a more affordable alternative to neighboring Fairfield County communities.

Commuters benefit from Stratford's strategic location between New York and Boston. The Metro-North station offers a 90-minute train ride to Manhattan, while Interstate 95 and the Merritt Parkway provide convenient driving routes. Local employment centers around healthcare, manufacturing, and aviation industries, with Bridgeport and New Haven job markets within easy reach. Residents enjoy dining options along Main Street, the popular Two Roads Brewing Company, and seasonal farmers markets, plus quick access to beaches where they can watch boats navigate the Housatonic River.