Greater Hartford

Greater Hartford is a region located in the U.S. state of Connecticut, centered on the state's capital of Hartford.

Hartford's role as a focal point for the American insurance industry is known nationally. The vibrant music and arts scene defines the region's culture. Greater Hartford is also home to the Travelers Championship golf tournament (formerly known as the Greater Hartford Open/Buick Championship).

This area of Connecticut is different from other parts of the state in that it is not dependent on out-of-state metropolitan areas such as New York City or Boston. It is on the fairly level land of the Connecticut River valley with soil less rocky than that of other areas in the state.

The region's economy is closely tied with Springfield, Massachusetts, as Hartford and Springfield are twin cities, only 25 miles apart. The area is served by Bradley International Airport, shared with Springfield. Although contiguous to Springfield's northern border, Westover Metropolitan Airport was briefly marketed as an alternative for Hartford-bound flyers. Hartford is also served by Hartford-Brainard Airport.

The population of Greater Hartford (as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau), exceeded 1 million in 2000, having a total population of 1,059,878 (2000 census). However, this is the slowest-growing part of Connecticut, having barely grown two percent in the 1990s. The 12% growth in the first half of the 2000s illustrates this trend (2005 population estimate of 1,188,241).