Grew up in Collinsville and highly recommend. It is a little far from the highway but otherwise it’s a lovely area. Love the history of the area, the rail trail, access to nature, local farms, all without feeling too rural. Lots of historic homes, and a lot of older homes (50s-80s) that are more affordable than the newer mcmansion developments, although they might be a bit small for a large family.

I also recommend the Unionville section of Farmington and Weatogue section of Simsbury. Affordable areas in really nice towns.