Nestled in eastern Connecticut, Storrs is a vibrant village with a growing community. As of 2024, Storrs has a population of approximately 17,983 residents, showing a steady growth rate of 1.06% annually. Since the 2020 census, which recorded 16,392 people, the population has increased by an impressive 9.71%, demonstrating the area’s continued appeal.
What makes Storrs unique is its remarkably young demographic profile. With a median age of just 20.4 years, this Tolland County gem stands out as one of Connecticut’s youngest communities. This youthful character stems from Storrs being home to the main campus of the University of Connecticut, which significantly shapes the village’s economic and social landscape.
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Beyond statistics, Storrs offers a perfect blend of academic energy and New England charm. The village forms part of the Capitol Planning Region and provides visitors with a distinctive cultural experience. The community features an interesting economic contrast – despite a median household income of $27,793, over 96% of working residents hold white-collar positions, reflecting the scenic landscapes and educational opportunities that make this part of Connecticut so appealing.
Demographics and Population Data of Storrs
Storrs, Connecticut presents a unique demographic profile shaped by its status as the home of the University of Connecticut. The population data reveals distinctive patterns in household composition, economic status, diversity, and age distribution that set this community apart from typical Connecticut towns.
Population and Household Characteristics
Storrs had a population of approximately 17,983 residents in 2024, showing steady growth at a rate of 1.06% annually. Since the 2020 census, which recorded 16,392 residents, the population has increased by 9.71%.
The community has experienced notable growth in recent years, with data showing a 4.9% population increase between 2021 and 2022 alone (from 16,784 to 17,606). This growth rate exceeds many other Connecticut communities.
The gender distribution in Storrs slightly favors females, with 8,350 females and 7,629 males recorded in the 2020 census. Household characteristics are heavily influenced by the student population, with many non-family households throughout the Storrs Census Designated Place (CDP).
Socioeconomic Profiles
The economic landscape of Storrs shows interesting contrasts. The average household income stands at $84,436, while the median household income is substantially lower at $27,793. This disparity reflects the large student population with limited income.
The community has seen significant economic improvement in recent years. Between 2021 and 2022, median household income grew by 16% (from $23,964 to $27,793), indicating positive economic trends.
Despite the relatively high average household income, Storrs has a poverty rate of 42%. This unusually high figure is largely attributed to the student population who may report little or no income while pursuing their education.
Housing in Storrs is predominantly renter-occupied, consistent with a university town where many residents are temporary students rather than permanent homeowners.
Ethnicity and Education
Storrs boasts a diverse population with various ethnic and racial backgrounds represented throughout the community. This diversity is enhanced by the University of Connecticut’s international student and faculty population.
Education levels in Storrs rank among the highest in Connecticut, with an exceptionally high percentage of residents holding bachelor’s degrees or higher. This educational attainment reflects both the university faculty and the graduate student population.
Non-English languages are commonly spoken throughout Storrs due to its international academic community. This linguistic diversity creates a multicultural atmosphere uncommon in many other Connecticut towns.
The place of birth for many residents spans across the United States and internationally, creating a cosmopolitan environment that distinguishes Storrs from more typical New England communities.
Age Distribution and Marital Status
The median age in Storrs is remarkably low at 20.4 years, making it one of the youngest communities in Connecticut. The median age is similar across genders: 20.6 years for males and slightly lower for females.
This youthful profile directly results from the large student population attending the University of Connecticut. The 0-17 age group represents a smaller proportion of residents compared to typical Connecticut towns.
Marital status statistics in Storrs show a higher percentage of single individuals than the Connecticut average. This pattern aligns with the predominant young adult student population.
The age distribution creates a dynamic, energetic community atmosphere with constant renewal as graduating students are replaced by incoming classes, maintaining Storrs’ distinctively youthful demographic profile year after year.
Housing and Economic Landscape
Storrs, Connecticut offers a diverse housing market heavily influenced by the presence of the University of Connecticut, with distinct ownership patterns and rental trends. The local economy centers around education while maintaining a quintessential New England environment with four distinct seasons.
Housing Market Dynamics
The housing landscape in Storrs reflects its identity as a college town. According to census data, there are approximately 2,241 occupied housing units in Storrs, with only 36.32% being owner-occupied while 63.68% are renter-occupied. This high percentage of rentals directly correlates with the student population.
The median value of owner-occupied homes with mortgages is $324,800, making Storrs a relatively valuable housing market. Monthly housing costs average around $1,556, which can be considered moderate for a college town in the Northeast.
Housing in Storrs consists primarily of single-family homes, apartment complexes, and student housing. The neighborhoods closest to the university tend to have higher rental rates, while areas further from campus feature more owner-occupied properties.
Local Economy and Businesses
Storrs’ economy is predominantly driven by educational services, with the University of Connecticut serving as the area’s largest employer. The median household income is $27,793, which reflects the large student population with limited income.
Between 2021 and 2022, the median household income grew by 16%, indicating positive economic movement. The civilian labor force participation rate is 49.4% of the population aged 16 years and older.
Local businesses primarily cater to university students and staff, with restaurants, retail shops, and service providers concentrated in the town center. Small businesses thrive alongside university-related enterprises, creating a balanced ecosystem that serves both permanent residents and the transient student population.
Climate and Environment
Storrs enjoys a classic New England climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and pleasant, with temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F, perfect for exploring the town’s numerous parks and natural areas.
Fall brings spectacular foliage displays, transforming the landscape into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. This season draws visitors who appreciate the quintessential New England autumn experience.
Winters can be cold and snowy, with substantial snowfall that blankets the university campus and surrounding neighborhoods. The town is well-equipped to handle winter conditions, with efficient snow removal systems keeping roads passable even during heavy snowfalls.
Spring arrives with blooming trees and flowers across campus and throughout residential areas, creating a picturesque environment as the academic year comes to a close.
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