Connecticut is one of the smallest U.S. states by area, but a lot is packed into its borders. It has a coastline on Long Island Sound, wooded hills in the northwest, the Connecticut River running through the middle of the state, old New England towns, major universities, and cities closely tied to the economies of New York and Boston.
Hartford is the state capital, while Bridgeport is the most populous city. Connecticut is also known for insurance, aerospace and defense manufacturing, submarine construction, higher education, and a colonial history that helped give it the official nickname “The Constitution State.”
Here are the key Connecticut facts, from its geography and major cities to population, economy, GDP, history, landmarks, state symbols, and government.
Quick Connecticut Facts for Students and Learners
| Official name | State of Connecticut |
| Postal abbreviation | CT |
| Capital | Hartford |
| Largest city | Bridgeport |
| U.S. region | New England, Northeastern United States |
| Statehood | January 9, 1788 |
| Order of statehood | 5th state |
| Official nickname | The Constitution State |
| State motto | Qui Transtulit Sustinet — “He Who Transplanted Still Sustains” |
| Total area | About 5,544 square miles |
| Land area | About 4,842.5 square miles |
| Population | 3,688,496, estimated July 1, 2025 |
| Population rank | 29th among the 50 states |
| Estimated population density | 761.7 people per square mile in 2025 |
| Historical counties | 8 |
| Current Census county equivalents | 9 planning regions |
| Number of towns | 169 |
| Highest point | South slope of Mount Frissell, about 2,380 feet |
| Lowest point | Long Island Sound, sea level |
| Major river | Connecticut River |
| Coastal water | Long Island Sound |
| State bird | American robin |
| State flower | Mountain laurel |
| State tree | White oak |
| State animal | Sperm whale |
| Time zone | Eastern Time |
The name Connecticut comes from an Indigenous name commonly rendered as Quinnehtukqut, referring to the long tidal river that became known as the Connecticut River.
Continue reading “Connecticut Facts: Capital, Major Cities, Geography & Economy”