Connecticut, one of the geographically smallest states in the nation, is nestled in the New England region of the country, alongside New York, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The state is only about 5,500 square miles, but it has over 3.5 million residents, making it the fourth most densely populated state. This is largely because Connecticut, as part of the New York-New Jersey-Connecticut tri-state area, serves as a wealthy bedroom community to New York City; many of its residents commute to jobs there.

Though the economy of Connecticut itself is relatively narrow, it’s based largely on agricultural and industrial output; Connecticut is the wealthiest state in the nation. It has an average per capita income of almost $48,000 per year, mostly due to the fact that so many highly-paid professionals from New York choose to live in Connecticut’s less urban locales. As well, there is a gross disparity of wealth and income in the state. The state’s wealthiest city, New Canaan, has an average per capita income of a little over $85,000 per year; its capitol and poorest city, Hartford, has an average per capita income of about $13,000 annually. Within its small boundaries, Connecticut has both some of the wealthiest and the poorest cities in the country.

Connecticut sits on the Long Island Sound – a tiny finger of the Atlantic Ocean. Generally, the state’s climate is cool and wet, and it experiences four distinct seasons. Connecticut’s geography can be characterized as gently rolling hills. Its highest point, the southern slope of Mt. Frisell in the northwestern part of the state, is only about 2,300 feet above sea level. The peak of Mt. Frisell itself is actually in Massachusetts. Many small and large rivers run in the shallow valleys between these hills and slopes, all of which eventually give way to coastal lowlands in the south.

As one the earliest colonies and one of the first states in the nation, Connecticut has a long history steeped in American tradition. Historical sites dot the Connecticut landscape, and it seems that just about every house, church or farm has some historical significance. There is more to Connecticut than just history, though. The state boasts a symphony-orchestra, several playhouses and theater companies, and many historical and agricultural fairs and festivals. Of course, the hustle and bustle of New York City is just a short commute away.

Besides its wealth and colonial history, Connecticut may be well-known for its many prestigious colleges and universities. Connecticut is home to 34 colleges and universities, some of which are the most elite in the nation. Yale University, Wesleyan University, Trinity College, Connecticut College, Fairfield University, St. Joseph’s College and Rensselear at Hartford are all located in Connecticut.