Study: Downtown New Haven Thrives As Model For Small Cities Nationwide

NEW HAVEN, CT —A new study from the International Downtown Association (IDA) concludes that Downtown New Haven is an established downtown, achieving the largest share of city-wide jobs and residents and making a crucial economic and cultural impact on the city and region at large.

Commissioned by Market New Haven, the New Haven Parking Authority and Town Green District, New Haven is the first city in New England to participate in the national study led by IDA, which is the premier organization for urban place professionals who are shaping and activating dynamic city center districts. The study was devised to provide a common set of metrics to communicate the value of downtowns based on more than 150 key data points across five core principles: economy, inclusion, vibrancy, identity, and resilience.

"By investing in the IDA study, we were able to show with no uncertainty that Downtown is the economic engine of New Haven," Market New Haven director Bruno Baggetta said. "Over the past 20 years, the Downtown neighborhood has been spearheading an upwards trajectory for the city, leading somewhat of a renaissance in relation to job density, retail success and residential growth. While many downtowns across the U.S. have suffered from an exodus of talent and money from city centers, New Haven has proven itself an exemplary blueprint for cultivating a healthy, thriving downtown.”

The study boundaries expanded on New Haven’s definition of downtown to include Union Station and the "Medical District" to reflect the ‘Hill to Downtown’ plan, an ongoing effort designed to reconnect those neighborhoods to the traditional central business district, and better connect residents of those areas to the opportunities available downtown.

Key highlights from the report include:

• Downtown New Haven is home to 70% of the city’s jobs, in a space that only makes up approximately 10% of city land. Other established downtowns including Pittsburgh and Baltimore have on average just 43% cityshare of jobs.

• Residential growth has increased 22% between 2000 and 2021, compared to just 4.9% across the region. This is nearly triple the city's overall growth rate and the national average.
• Downtown New Haven saw a 15% increase in new unit construction between 2010 and 2020, creating additional room for growth.

• In terms of inclusion and identity, Downtown New Haven is among the most diverse downtowns in IDA’s study, with 62% of its population identifying as non-White - about 15% higher than the average downtown.

• Primary employment growth in downtown grew 25% between 2002 and 2020, as compared to a -2% decrease in the larger region.

• Between 2010 and 2019, employment in the retail sector grew by 28%. Downtown New Haven averages about three times as many retail sales per square mile, with $296 million retail trade sales in 2022.

• Employment in the accommodation and food service sectors grew by 34% between 2010 and 2019, making up 53% of the city’s overall jobs in these industries. Food and drink sales totaled $110 million.

• Compared to a national average of 39% across other established downtowns,

Fifty-eight percent of people working in Downtown New Haven have a sustainable commute. Downtown New Haven scored at the top of the chart in walkability, a 96 out of 100, and bikeability, a 95 out of 100. With 39% of downtown residents walking to work, retail spend is positioned to thrive.

A more detailed summary of the report’s findings can be found here.

About Downtown New Haven

Known as the ‘Cultural Capital of Connecticut,’ Downtown New Haven is a city of connections. It’s where culture meets community and intellectual curiosity. From acclaimed restaurants, unique shopping, a robust arts and culture scene, entertainment venues, and sophisticated nightlife, the vibrant destination offers something for everyone. In 2023, The New York Times named New Haven on its annual 52 Places to Go list.

About Market New Haven

Established in 2000 as the official destination marketing organization for downtown New Haven, Market New Haven strives to make downtown the region’s most vibrant and traveled destination. Market New Haven supports the growth of jobs, taxes, visitation, and economic activity in downtown and is privately funded by Yale and Yale New Haven Health.

About New Haven Parking Authority

The New Haven Parking Authority proudly serves the people of New Haven and its visitors with over 8,000 economical public parking spaces at the Air Rights, Crown Street, Temple Street, Temple Medical, Granite Square, State Street, and Union Station Garages, and at numerous surface parking lots conveniently located in downtown New Haven and in surrounding residential neighborhoods. The New Haven Parking Authority is also dedicated to managing the Union Station and State Street train stations, ensuring seamless access for commuters and travelers alike.

About Town Green District

The Town Green District is a business improvement district (BID) funded by a surtax on property in Downtown New Haven to fund programs for public space improvements, cleaning and maintenance, visitor information, economic prosperity, and advocacy.