Fairfield County, Connecticut

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Fairfield County is a county located in the southwestern corner of the U.S. state of Connecticut. As of the 2020 census, the population of Fairfield County was 957,419, making it the most populous county in the state. The county seat is Bridgeport, which is also the largest city in the county.

History

Fairfield County was established in 1666 by the Connecticut Colony. The county was named after the town of Fairfield, which was one of the four original towns in the county. The area has a rich history, including significant events during the American Revolutionary War.

Geography

Fairfield County is bordered by Long Island Sound to the south, Westchester County, New York to the west, Litchfield County to the north, and New Haven County to the east. The county has a total area of 837 square miles, of which 625 square miles is land and 212 square miles is water.

Major Rivers and Water Bodies

• Housatonic River
• Saugatuck River
• Long Island Sound

Demographics

According to the 2020 census, Fairfield County has a diverse population with a variety of ethnic and racial groups. The county is known for its high median household income and is one of the wealthiest counties in the United States.

Economy

Fairfield County has a robust economy with significant contributions from the finance, healthcare, and education sectors. The county is home to several Fortune 500 companies and has a strong presence in the hedge fund industry.

Education

Fairfield County is served by several public and private educational institutions. Notable higher education institutions include:

• Fairfield University
• Sacred Heart University
• University of Bridgeport

Transportation

Fairfield County is well-connected by various modes of transportation. Major highways include Interstate 95, Merritt Parkway, and U.S. Route 7. The county is also served by the Metro-North Railroad and several bus services.

Cities and Towns

Fairfield County comprises several cities and towns, including:

• Bridgeport
• Stamford
• Norwalk
• Danbury
• Fairfield
• Greenwich

Points of Interest

Fairfield County offers numerous cultural and recreational attractions, including:

• Beardsley Zoo
• The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk
• Weir Farm National Historic Site

Notable Residents

Fairfield County has been home to many notable individuals, including:

• Paul Newman
• Meryl Streep
• Christopher Walken

See Also

• List of counties in Connecticut
• History of Connecticut
• Geography of Connecticut