Long Island Sound's northern shore defines West Haven's southern boundary, with this city of 55,000 occupying three miles of coastline. The terrain rises gradually from sea level to roughly 200 feet elevation inland. New England coastal climate brings cold winters averaging around 30°F and warm summers reaching the low 80s, moderated by maritime influences. West Haven developed as a residential suburb of New Haven, located immediately to the east. The city's layout follows the coastline, with most development concentrated within a mile of the sound.
