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West Haven is a small city of approximately 55,000 residents situated on Long Island Sound in New Haven County, Connecticut. Located directly west of New Haven, West Haven serves as home to the University of New Haven and is closely connected to Yale University's broader campus community next door. The city's shoreline along Savin Rock and West Haven Beach makes it one of the few coastal college towns in New England. Its proximity to downtown New Haven gives residents easy access to restaurants, cultural institutions, and employment, while still offering a quieter residential setting.
The most convenient access to classes and campus amenities.
Near the Long Island Sound shoreline, attractive for beaches, restaurants, and a lively summer entertainment district.
Bordering New Haven near Whalley Avenue, with easy access to both cities' dining and nightlife.
In New Haven proper, a short drive or bus ride from UNH, with a distinct urban-residential feel.
Here's what you need to know about getting around West Haven.
CT Transit bus routes connect West Haven to downtown New Haven and surrounding areas, making it possible to get around without a car for many daily trips. The West Haven Metro-North station on the New Haven Line provides direct commuter rail service to New York City's Grand Central Terminal, a major convenience for students and residents. Bus frequency is moderate and coverage focuses on major corridors, so riders should plan around schedules when relying on transit for time-sensitive trips.
The area immediately surrounding the University of New Haven campus is reasonably walkable, with shops, dining, and student housing within a short walk along Campbell Avenue and nearby streets. West Haven also has relatively flat terrain, making biking a practical option for students commuting between housing and campus. A bike path along the shoreline provides a scenic route for recreation, though dedicated infrastructure in the broader city is limited.
Parking is generally available throughout West Haven, with street parking and surface lots accessible in most neighborhoods. Students living off campus will find that most rental properties include some form of off-street parking. Driving into downtown New Haven can involve more limited and paid parking, so many students opt to take the bus or train for trips into the city.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
West Haven offers a quieter, residential feel compared to downtown New Haven, with the added benefit of waterfront access along Long Island Sound. Students enjoy proximity to both their campus and the amenities of New Haven, which is just a few miles away.
Browse student housing near each West Haven-area university.