$1,236,886Average Value$587Average Price per Sq Ft10Homes For Sale
A tight-knit town with culture, history and natural beauty
The New England charm and serene, small-town atmosphere of Washington, Connecticut, inspired show creator Amy Sherman-Palladino to write the iconic Gilmore Girls series, drawing influences for Stars Hollow from the town’s real-life establishments like the Mayflower Inn and Hickory Stick Book Shop. Today, the town still enchants guests and residents with its pastoral setting, historic architecture and active community. “Washington blends small-town character with a relaxed atmosphere,” says local Realtor Rebecca Doh of W. Raveis Lifestyles Realty, who grew up in Washington. “It’s very vibrant culturally, with a walkable, charming town center in Washington Depot and tons of natural beauty. It just has that classic New England feel.”
Residents maintain a connected lifestyle through the town’s slew of community events and cultural attractions, which celebrate Washington’s diverse population. Additionally, the town’s rural landscape puts locals in reach of abundant outdoor recreation, including natural preserves, golf courses and hiking trails. The lively atmosphere attracts perennial and part-time residents alike. “Burlington draws full-timers and weekenders escaping the city life because we’re about an hour from Manhattan,” Doh says. “We’re like the anti-Hamptons; you can relax, but it’s not frenzied. It’s much more laid back because there’s no traffic — there isn’t even a single traffic light.” The town comprises five distinct villages, anchored by its conglomerate of local establishments in Washington Depot. “There’s still uniform pride,” Doh says. “We are one town, and the community is very tight-knit.”
Washington is surrounded by farmland, offering residents peace and quiet, far away from Connecticut's larger cities.
Washington residents can stop into The Hickory Stick Bookshop to browse the shelves.
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Home styles range from vintage farmhouses to modern estates
Homes in Washington run the gamut in architectural styles. “Our architecture is diverse, ranging from basic starter home to large, elaborate estates,” Doh says. “We have vintage homes from the 1800s to early 1900s, there are a lot of homes with sizeable acreage and we have tons of high-end waterfront homes.” Most have classical flair and preserve the New England character of the area. Cape Cods, colonial era and ranch-style homes are common among modest single-family builds. Contemporary retreats built in the last 20 years often feature mid-century modern and neo-classical farmhouse influences. Prices can range from $400,000 for smaller single-family homes to mansions with sprawling layouts fetching $14 million. “Washington has some of the highest property values and lowest taxes,” Doh says. “The bulk of our inventory is $1 million plus, and it’s hard to find anything under $600,000.” The median price for real estate here hovers at around $1.5 million.
More modest single family homes can be found along Washington's neighborhood streets.
Many of the homes in Washington have farmhouse influences, which add to the rural charm of the area.
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Families choose Washington for its strong school options
Regional School District No. 12 serves just less than 800 students in Litchfield County and earns an overall A score from Niche. Doh says the highly rated schools are a draw for families. “District 12 schools are quite good, and we have fantastic private schools,” she says. Within the district, students may begin their education at Washington Primary School, an A-rated grade school serving kindergarten through fifth grade students. Kids may continue to Shepaug Valley School, which maintains an A-minus score with high marks in academics and teachers. The school also has its own planetarium, allowing students to get up-close views of planets and the galaxy.
Parents may also choose to enroll their kids in Washington’s private schools. Rumsey Hall School is an A-minus-rated private boarding school for prekindergarten through ninth grades, and Washinton Montessori School covers prekindergarten through eighth grades and earns an A from Niche.
Washington Primary School is a highly rated elementary school in Washington.
Shepaug Valley School serves grades 6-12 in Washington, Connecticut.
Rumsey Hall School is an option for those looking for a private education in Washington.
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Outdoor recreation and community spirit shape daily life in Washington
Washington’s rural setting provides residents with bounteous access to outdoor recreation. Hiking trails snake their way through the many preserves and state parks that pepper the landscape. Steep Rock Preserve offers scenic hiking trails along the Shepaug River and peaks at the Steep Rock Summit for picturesque Connecticut vistas. Additional trails wind through Hidden Valley Preserve and Mt Tom State Park, which has a lookout tower at its summit. The Shepaug River bisects the town and provides opportunities for swimming, kayaking and fishing. Lake Waramaug is a destination for boating and its many beaches.
Many of Washington’s community events take place in The Judy Black Memorial Park, a small park and outdoor garden that also features a gallery space. “The Judy Black Park in the center of town draws a lot of people for art openings and the farmers market on Saturdays,” Doh says. “And the park has outdoor movie nights through the summer.” The Washington Recreation Department also hosts abundant recreational activities and events, including adult and youth sports leagues, summer camps and events like 5K runs and beach parties. Art galleries and other organizations and attractions, like the Gunn Library and Museum and The Institute for American Indian Studies, also host events that celebrate the diversity and history of the area.
Judy Black Memorial Park is a community hub in Washington with open fields and outdoor art for residents to enjoy.
The Institute for American Indian Studies in Washington has a village to explore.
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Farm-to-table cafés and indie shops anchor the town center
Washington’s small town center is in Washington Depot, anchored by the historic Washington Town Hall, a post office and a smattering of locally owned establishments brimming with character. Washington Food Market is an independent grocery store that carries necessities and local produce and merchandise. “We have a lot of multigenerational ongoing farms, since we used to be a big farming community,” Doh says. “We’ve still retained the importance of knowing where your food comes from.” The Pantry reflects this core value with their farm-to-table menu of sandwiches and hearty soups for takeout or dine-in. Marty’s Café and G.W. Tavern are other favorites for their inviting atmospheres, and shops like Hickory Stick Book Shop and Washington Supply Company further evoke the small-town charm of Washington.
Locals head to New Preston, one of Washington’s five villages, for additional eclectic shopping. “New Preston is a very awesome spot for shopping with lots of cool furniture and home décor stores and high-end retail,” Doh says. Antique stores and interior design shops mingle between women’s boutiques like Favorite on a short stretch of Main Street and Shore Road. For bigger stores, shopping malls like Litchfield Crossings and New Milford Plaza in New Milford, about 8 miles southwest, house big-box stores and national retailers like Kohl’s, T.J. Maxx, Walmart and more.
Washington residents can visit the local Washington Food Market for all of their grocery needs.
The G.W. Tavern in Washington serves lunch and dinner most nights of the week.
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Connecting into Hartford and Manhattan
The town center of Washington sits at the intersection of Route 109 and Route 47 along the Shepaug River. Both routes connect to Highway 202. Washington is about 50 miles from Hartford and 80 miles from Manhattan. Bradley International Airport outside of Hartford is about 65 miles away.
Written By
Christina von Claparede-Crola
Photography Contributed By
Charles Kennedy
Video By
Chris Norton
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Gina Cavallo,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Washington, CT sell after 137 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Washington, CT over the last 12 months is $1,231,875, up 41% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Enjoy elevated living in this prime Quarry Ridge condominium offering three levels of thoughtfully designed space and views down the Marbledale Valley. The main level features a flexible bedroom with adjacent hall bath, ideal for guests or one-level living if needed. The updated country kitchen is the heart of the home, complete with a large center island, breakfast nook, and abundant workspace.
Showings by open houses until tenant leaves Oct 4. Picturesque property in the heart of Washington near Steep Rock Preserve. Magical pond cascades into the babbling waterfall and brook. Walk over the bridge to the main house oozing charm and sophistication with a classic country style. Open living room and dining room with a fireplace and French doors leading to the blue stone patio and gardens.
Turnkey living in the highly sought-after Bee Brook Crossing. Surrounded by 20 thoughtfully designed residences, this beautifully maintained unit offers a move-in-ready opportunity in one of the area's most desirable communities. One of the larger layouts in the complex, this unit spans 3 levels and provides exceptional flexibility, featuring a primary suite on the main level, along with a
Tucked away at the terminus of a quiet dirt road, this 13-plus-acre sanctuary delivers absolute privacy alongside uncompromising mid century modern luxury. Approached via a winding scenic driveway, the property opens to reveal sweeping, recently opened panoramic vistas of Nettleton Hollow, complete with a tranquil brook and quintessential Litchfield County countryside. At the heart of the estate
You are not dreaming. This Washington Depot treasure is everything you imagine in a country home: the iconic lines of a 1950s Connecticut cape, with interiors and systems transformed for modern living; a design upgrade worthy of a Cottages & Gardens spread; an in-town location that provides the true Stars Hollow experience; and an exhaustive list of upgrades that provides a turnkey ownership
Major estate with the highest standards of construction located within the Sunny Ridge historic district. Situated on 10 private, park-like acres with an over-sized heated pool, fabulous stonewalls, giant dining terraces, pond and orchard. 7+ bedrooms, Billiard room, screening room, paneled library, sunroom, new country kitchen, 100-person party room boasts a restaurant size bar, sound system and
Step into a storybook setting with this meticulously renovated 1905 Nantucket shingle-style cottage. The grounds feature mature landscaping, historic stone walls and walkways, and a classic white picket fence. Offering a seamless blend of period craftsmanship and modern luxury, this pristine jewel box home is in mint, turnkey condition. Inside, the residence radiates light and warmth with
Enjoy elevated living in this prime Quarry Ridge condominium offering three levels of thoughtfully designed space and views down the Marbledale Valley. The main level features a flexible bedroom with adjacent hall bath, ideal for guests or one-level living if needed. The updated country kitchen is the heart of the home, complete with a large center island, breakfast nook, and abundant workspace.
Rare 5.75 Pristine Acres in Washington, CT overlooking stream and waterfall on an exceptionally quiet, idyllic back road, across from Steep Rock Preserve, this gorgeous parcel offers an opportunity to build your dream sanctuary in one of Washington's most tranquil enclaves. Perfectly balancing historic charm and untouched natural beauty, with a stone foundation left in pace, this lightly wooded
Bring Your Vision to Life! Set on 2.19 beautiful acres in desirable Washington, Connecticut, this four bedroom, one full/one half bath property offers a wonderful opportunity to create something truly special. Surrounded by mature trees, natural beauty, and a sense of privacy, the setting is the real star. There is even road frontage on Nettletown Hollow. The existing home and separate
Nothing to do here but kick back and relax! Meticulously updated 3 bedroom 3 bath ranch with completely finished lower level for easy multi-generational living. The updated kitchen is a wonder, with an 8 burner Viking stove, all hi-end appliances, large peninsula, Quartz counters and an incredible tile back splash. The 10 drawers are very deep, making finding the contents a snap, and there's also
Lake Waramaug Shingle & Stone Cottage "Bird's Eye View" is a truly enchanting 1890s cottage, rich in character and thoughtfully updated for today's lifestyle. Perched above Lake Waramaug, the property enjoys spectacular lake views while offering an extraordinary sense of privacy on 2.4 acres, with no road noise or neighboring homes intruding on the setting. The main level centers around a newly
Rare opportunity to own a two-family property in the Town of Washington. Multi-family properties in this market are few and far between, making this a unique opportunity for investors, contractors, or buyers looking to renovate and add value. The property offers one, two-bedroom unit, and one, one-bedroom unit. While the property is in need of updates and improvements, it presents an excellent
Showings by open houses until tenant leaves Oct 4. Picturesque property in the heart of Washington near Steep Rock Preserve. Magical pond cascades into the babbling waterfall and brook. Walk over the bridge to the main house oozing charm and sophistication with a classic country style. Open living room and dining room with a fireplace and French doors leading to the blue stone patio and gardens.
Charming mint renovated Nantucket-style cottage set on 25 acres of meadows with apple trees and 200-year old maples. Breathtaking hilltop views overlook farms, the Town of Washington and church steeples. Dine or relax on the flagstone terrace poolside surrounded by new dawn climbing roses, hedges and blue hydrangea.SUMMER June - August $26,900/month; Memorial - Labor Day $69,900; OFF-SEASON
Available as a furnished rental. Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac, this inviting 3-bedroom, 4-bath home offers comfort, flexibility, and a private wooded setting. Dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows fill the Great Room with natural light and frame beautiful views of the surrounding woods. The open living and dining areas create warm shared spaces, while the study and loft provide quiet retreats. A
2 bedroom rental just minutes from the village of New Preston, Rte 202 minutes away for easy commute to Litchfield or New Milford. Quiet area of New Preston.
Enchanting 2-bedroom/2.5 bath cottage in pristine condition overlooking beautiful meadows on a quiet country road yet within minutes to Washington Depot. Beautiful country decor and high-end furnishings and linens. Lovely living room with hardwood floors, two cozy sitting areas one with T.V and the other with wood-burning fireplace. Sunny kitchen with dining area accesses a deck with outdoor
Updated, clean and easy rental. Low-maintenance living in this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath single-level home close to Washington Depot with pool! Interior features an updated kitchen and bathrooms, lighting and appliances. New roof and installation of central air, as well as mini-splits in bedrooms. Hardwood floor in family room, wood burning fireplace, doors opening to patio, gardens, lawn and
Charming Cottage Near Lake Waramaug - Washington, CT Enjoy what is left of this years peaceful summer and roll right into the breath taking Autumn in New Preston, in this inviting loft-style cottage, set on a scenic 17-acre property just moments from Lake Waramaug. Surrounded by gardens and a quiet pond, this well-appointed retreat offers a comfortable and convenient escape. The open-concept
Picturesque property in the heart of Washington near Steep Rock Preserve. Magical pond cascades into the babbling waterfall and brook. Walk over the bridge to the main house oozing charm and sophistication with a classic country style. Open living room and dining room with a fireplace and French doors leading to the blue stone patio and gardens. Country kitchen with all the amenities and just off
Available for Academic or Annual Rental! This New Preston gem is just 2 hours from NYC and has been newly renovated to perfection. A 1910 Washington Lake Cottage offers a rare opportunity to enjoy New Preston Village and Lake Waramaug with it's great shopping and dining just a short walk away! High design and a Perfect combination of Old and New, the open concept layout with a combined living
Available 9/10/26 - 5/31/27 at $8,500 per month. Inquire about custom terms, more time, summer 2027 or annual terms. Inquire for details about use of Luxury pontoon boat for cruising and waterskiing. Enjoy this chic and renovated home on glamorous Lake Waramaug. Walk across the street to the fabulous dock with spacious lake side lawn. Canoe is available for use. 6 bedrooms (3 en-suite) with
Magnificent country home, pool, and spa on coveted Calhoun Street. 15 private acres of stone terraces, gardens, fruit trees, fields, extraordinary views, only 1 mile from town. Close to New Preston and Lake Waramaug. 4-6 bedroom Dutch Colonial with LR, DR, Library, Chef's Kitchen with large dining area, Large Pantry, Den and 3 full and 3 half bathrooms, 4 Fireplaces, 2-Car Garage. SUMMER June -
Fully furnished charming one bedroom/one bath cottage with stone fireplace, living room/dining room and three season sunroom with beautiful gardens on a private estate in Washington. 1,000 square feet of perfection! Privacy and serenity abounds! Tenant is responsible for propane. The owner takes care of all the rest including bimonthly housekeeping.
Expanded Cape brimming with charm and character, offering 5 bedrooms and 2 beautifully remodeled baths. The updated kitchen flows seamlessly into a spacious living room with fireplace, while vaulted ceilings and exposed beams add warmth and architectural interest. Rich oak and wide-board floors enhance the home's timeless appeal. French doors open to a private patio overlooking a level
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