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Vermont’s best places to live offer scenic charm, safe neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community. The state is renowned for its pristine environment, high-quality schools, and charming small-town atmosphere. Choosing where to live is important, as each area offers a unique blend of convenience, outdoor activities, and local culture.
Vermont may be small, but every town has its own character. Some are ideal for families, while others are suited for young professionals or retirees. This guide helps you find the best match for your goals, covering cost of living, community, jobs, and schools.
What You’ll Learn
In this guide, we will answer:
What makes Vermont one of the best places to live in the U.S.?
Which Vermont towns are best for different lifestyles?
How do Vermont’s cities and towns compare in cost and livability?
Overview
What Makes the Green Mountain State So Appealing?
Not every town in the Green Mountain State offers the same lifestyle. Vermont is mainly rural, and that shapes everything from commute times to the types of homes you’ll find. The slower pace and sense of community attract people who value authenticity over flashiness. Vermont’s charm shines through its quiet roads, cozy downtowns, and welcoming locals who embody a strong sense of connection and purpose.
Rural lifestyle: Many areas are spread out by the square mile, offering open land and wide views of the nearby Adirondack Mountains.
Peace and balance: Residents enjoy a life surrounded by nature, with numerous outdoor activities available, including hiking, skiing, and fishing.
Community values: Vermont’s small towns, such as Essex Junction, are renowned for their hospitality, safety, and neighborly cooperation.
Education and culture: Institutions such as Middlebury College and the University of Vermont contribute to the state's academic life and cultural depth.
Career and growth: Despite its small size, Vermont offers a range of job opportunities in education, healthcare, and technology, while maintaining a close-knit community spirit.
Safety: It remains one of the safest states in America, with low crime rates and strong local trust.
Local flavor: Vermont is a leading producer of maple syrup and sharp cheddar cheese, two of its proudest exports.
Location and access: The state’s proximity to New Hampshire and New York makes travel convenient while preserving its peaceful rural identity.
The Best Places to Live in Vermont by Lifestyle
Best Places for Families
Vermont’s small-town warmth makes it one of the most family-friendly places in the Green Mountain State. These towns offer excellent schools, safe streets, and a range of activities for children. Families enjoy a suburban feel while staying close to the conveniences of the largest city.
Essex Junction
One of Vermont’s safest cities, Essex Junction is part of the Essex Westford School District (EWSD). The area has quiet neighborhoods, parks, and many youth programs. Families love the structured suburban setting and strong sense of community.
South Burlington
South Burlington is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state of Vermont. It boasts top-rated schools, excellent healthcare at the University of Vermont Medical Center, and extensive shopping areas. Families enjoy Lake Champlain and its numerous outdoor recreational activities. It offers suburban comfort without the congestion of other states.
Williston
Williston is ideal for families who want space and newer homes. The town boasts a welcoming community, scenic walking trails, and convenient access to Burlington via the highway. Its location in Chittenden County makes commuting simple and life peaceful.
Best Places for Young Adults and Professionals
These cities offer energy, opportunity, and a lively atmosphere. They’re great for people starting careers or looking for a more social lifestyle.
Burlington
Burlington is the heart of the Green Mountain State and its economic center. It’s home to the University of Vermont, tech companies, and a strong healthcare sector. Downtown’s Church Street Marketplace is full of local businesses, restaurants, and nightlife. Lake Champlain adds even more options for outdoor recreation.
Winooski
Across the river from Burlington, Winooski is one of Vermont’s most vibrant cities. It’s walkable, affordable, and full of great cafes and restaurants. The city boasts a youthful energy and a lively social scene, making it a popular destination among young professionals.
Montpelier
Montpelier is the smallest state capital in the country. It offers steady employment in government and nonprofits, and has a friendly, close-knit downtown area. According to the World Population Review, Montpelier’s population is at 7,876, small but stable. It’s ideal for professionals seeking a balance between work and nature.
Peaceful Places for Retirees
These towns offer calm surroundings, beautiful scenery, and excellent healthcare. They’re ideal for retirees who want a slower, more connected lifestyle.
Middlebury
Located in Addison County, Middlebury blends culture and small-town charm. Middlebury College brings arts, music, and lectures to the area. The town’s historic architecture and excellent healthcare make it a comfortable and cultured place to live in retirement.
Brattleboro
Brattleboro, in southeastern Vermont, has a creative and welcoming atmosphere. It supports many local businesses, galleries, and bookstores. The community is tight-knit, the scenery is beautiful, and healthcare is easily accessible.
Stowe
Stowe offers luxury living and stunning views at the base of Mount Mansfield. It’s known for golf, fine dining, skiing, and resort-style amenities. Stowe is one of Vermont’s most scenic cities, perfect for retirees who enjoy an active four-season lifestyle.
Cost Comparison: Crowded and Affordable Vermont Cities
Vermont's best places to live vary in terms of their cost of living and quality of life. While Burlington offers the most amenities and job opportunities, it comes at a much higher price point than smaller cities like Barre or Newport.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Best Place to Live in Vermont
Moving to Vermont is more than a move. It’s the start of a new way of living. Whether you’re raising a family, building your career, or enjoying retirement, Vermont offers a lifestyle rooted in community, nature, and balance.
From peaceful small towns to lively cities, there’s a perfect place for everyone who values safety, beauty, and a slower pace of life. As you plan your next chapter, take the time to find the Vermont town that fits your goals and dreams.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why don’t many people live in Vermont?
Vermont has a small population because much of the state is rural, with limited urban development, long winters, and a modest job market compared to larger states.
Where do millionaires live in Vermont?
Affluent residents often settle in towns like Stowe, Woodstock, and Manchester, known for luxury homes, resort communities, and scenic mountain views.
What is the most crowded city in Vermont?
Burlington is Vermont’s most populated city, with a population of 44,353, serving as the state’s cultural and economic hub.
Is there a housing shortage in Vermont?
Yes. Vermont faces a housing shortage, particularly in popular and high-demand areas where available homes are scarce and prices exceed the national average.
How far is Vermont from New York?
Vermont is three to six hours from New York, depending on your starting point, with the shortest routes connecting southern Vermont to the New York City metro area.
Disclaimer:
This article is for general informational purposes only. It does not provide legal, financial, or relocation advice. Housing costs, demographics, and community details are subject to change over time. Readers should verify all information with official sources or local experts before making decisions about moving or investing. AmeriFreight is not responsible for actions taken based on this content.
