10 Major Connecticut Industries to Consider if You’re Working in or Moving to the State
Connecticut is known for its diverse and robust economy, with opportunities spanning multiple sectors. Major industries in Connecticut have helped the state establish a reputation as a hub for innovation, manufacturing, and finance. Whether you’re browsing homes for sale in Stamford or apartments in New Haven, you’ll find plenty of reasons to consider moving to Connecticut. The state offers job opportunities in thriving industries and a high quality of life that attracts renters and buyers alike. From aerospace engineering to financial services, Connecticut is a great place to work and live.
Connecticut at a glance: Home prices, income, and employment
| Median home sale price | $416,300 |
| Median household income | $91,665 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% |
Top employers in Connecticut
- Hartford HealthCare: 37,000 employees
- Raytheon: 17,000 employees
- Amazon: 15,000 employees
- Yale New Haven Health: 15,000 employees
- Saint Francis Health System: 12,000 employees
10 major industries in Connecticut
1. Aerospace and defense
Major Employers: Pratt & Whitney (East Hartford), Sikorsky Aircraft (Stratford), General Dynamics Electric Boat (Groton)
Aerospace and defense is one of Connecticut’s most vital industries, employing over 100,000 skilled workers. Jobs range from aerospace engineers and mechanics to project managers and supply chain analysts. Pratt & Whitney and Sikorsky Aircraft are global leaders in aerospace manufacturing, while General Dynamics Electric Boat specializes in submarine production. The industry attracts professionals seeking innovation and career growth. Moving to Connecticut offers opportunities in this high-demand field, supported by strong educational institutions and research facilities.
Thinking about moving to Connecticut for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in East Hartford or Stratford.
2. Finance and insurance
Major Employers: The Hartford (locations in Connecticut), Travelers (Hartford), Cigna (Bloomfield)
Connecticut’s finance and insurance sector is a cornerstone of its economy, employing a significant portion of the workforce. This industry offers roles in underwriting, risk analysis, customer service, and financial planning. The Hartford and Travelers are household names in insurance, while Cigna is a leader in health insurance and healthcare solutions. Professionals in this field enjoy competitive salaries and benefits, making Connecticut an attractive option for relocation.
Thinking about moving to Connecticut for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Hartford or Bloomfield.
3. Healthcare and bioscience
Major Employers: Yale New Haven Health (New Haven), Hartford HealthCare (Hartford), Alexion Pharmaceuticals (office in New Haven)
Healthcare and bioscience are growing rapidly in Connecticut, with major employers offering a variety of roles. Job opportunities include clinical positions, medical research, and pharmaceutical development. Yale New Haven Health and Hartford HealthCare run extensive hospital networks, while Alexion Pharmaceuticals focuses on rare disease therapies. The sector’s growth ensures a steady demand for professionals, making it an ideal choice for those moving to Connecticut.
Thinking about moving to Connecticut for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Hartford or New Haven.
4. Manufacturing
Major Employers: Stanley Black & Decker (New Britain), ASML (locations in Connecticut), Kaman Corporation (Bloomfield)
Manufacturing in Connecticut is thriving, with companies producing goods from tools to advanced machinery. Jobs in this sector include assembly line workers, engineers, and logistics coordinators. Stanley Black & Decker leads in hand tools and power equipment, while ASML specializes in semiconductor technology. Manufacturing contributes significantly to the state’s economy, offering a stable career path for individuals considering a move.
Thinking about moving to Connecticut for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in New Britain or Bloomfield.
5. Technology and software development
Major Employers: Infosys (office in Hartford), Gartner (Stamford), Pitney Bowes (Stamford)
Connecticut’s technology sector is expanding, with roles in software development, IT support, and data analytics. Infosys and Gartner are key players offering opportunities in tech consulting and market research, while Pitney Bowes focuses on global shipping and e-commerce solutions. The state’s tech-friendly policies and infrastructure make it a draw for professionals in this field.
Thinking about moving to Connecticut for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Stamford or Greenwich.
6. Education
Major Employers: Yale University (New Haven), University of Connecticut (Storrs), Quinnipiac University (Hamden)
Education is a pillar of Connecticut’s economy, employing thousands of educators, researchers, and administrators. Yale University is world-renowned for its academic and research contributions, while UConn and Quinnipiac are leaders in higher education. The sector attracts families seeking top-notch schooling and professionals passionate about teaching and innovation. Moving to Connecticut provides access to one of the best education systems in the nation.
Thinking about moving to Connecticut for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Storrs or New Haven.
7. Retail and e-commerce
Major Employers: Walmart , Amazon, Stop & Shop (all based out of state with locations across Connecticut)
The retail sector offers a mix of traditional and e-commerce roles, including store management, logistics, and digital marketing. Walmart and Stop & Shop operate locations statewide, while Amazon’s fulfillment centers provide numerous job opportunities. This industry supports local economies and offers positions for workers at all experience levels.
Thinking about moving to Connecticut for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Hartford or New Haven.
8. Energy and utilities
Major Employers: Eversource Energy (locations in Connecticut), Avangrid (Orange), Dominion Energy (locations in Connecticut)
Connecticut’s energy and utilities industry is critical to its infrastructure and environmental goals. Jobs range from electrical engineers to renewable energy specialists and customer service representatives. Eversource Energy and Avangrid focus on electricity and gas services, while Dominion Energy contributes to the state’s nuclear power capabilities, which are responsible for over a third of the state’s electricity. The sector attracts workers passionate about sustainability and innovation.
Thinking about moving to Connecticut for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Orange or New Haven.
9. Tourism and hospitality
Major Employers: Mohegan Sun (Uncasville), Foxwoods Resort Casino (Ledyard), Marriott International (Locations across Connecticut)
Tourism and hospitality are vital contributors to Connecticut’s economy, offering roles in event management, guest services, and culinary arts. Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Resort Casino draw visitors from across the region, while Marriott provides diverse hospitality positions. Moving to Connecticut gives professionals in this field access to a vibrant and rewarding career path.
Thinking about moving to Connecticut for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Uncasville or Ledyard.
10. Agriculture and food production
Major Employers: Bozzuto’s Inc. (Cheshire), Blue Seal Feeds (locations in Connecticut), Jones Family Farms (Shelton)
Connecticut’s agriculture industry includes food production, farming, and distribution roles. Bozzuto’s Inc. specializes in wholesale food distribution, while Blue Seal Feeds supports the agricultural community. Jones Family Farms in Shelton showcases the state’s commitment to sustainable farming practices. The industry’s emphasis on local and organic products appeals to residents and businesses alike.
Thinking about moving to Connecticut for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Cheshire or Shelton.
The post 10 Major Connecticut Industries to Consider if You’re Working in or Moving to the State appeared first on Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling & More.
