My wife and I lived in New Haven for over 3 years (1 downtown and 2 East Rock) and loved it. The city is fantastic, super walkable, with lots going on. We moved there not knowing anyone and joined an adult kickball league (WAKA) and meet basically all our current adult friends there.

Other then a single nighttime parking garage car break in (which can happen anywhere) we had zero issues with crime or feeling unsafe. It’s the perfect small city with museums, concerts, epic food, and fantastic train access. I’d highly recommend New Haven.