Vermont Living Report — July 20, 2026

Perched between the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain, Vermont offers a lifestyle that’s as much about its landscape as its economy. But for anyone considering a move to the nation’s second-least-populous state, the numbers tell a more nuanced story. With a population of just 643,816, Vermont is intimate, rural, and increasingly expensive—yet its low unemployment rate and strong sense of community continue to draw newcomers.

The cost of living is a mixed bag. Median one-bedroom rent sits at $1,149 per month, according to recent data, while the median home value hovers around $272,400. That’s modest compared to the Northeast’s coastal hubs, but it’s a significant burden relative to local incomes. The median household income in Vermont is $74,014 per year, which means a one-bedroom apartment consumes about 18.6% of a typical household’s gross monthly income—a figure that falls within the generally accepted affordability threshold of 30%, but leaves little room for other expenses. The poverty rate stands at 10.1%, slightly below the national average, though pockets of economic hardship persist, especially in rural areas.

The job market is tight—and that’s a good thing for workers. Vermont’s unemployment rate was just 2.4% in May 2026, reflecting a labor market that favors employees. The state has seen steady growth in healthcare, education, and remote-friendly sectors. Meanwhile, the median age of 42.9—one of the highest in the country—hints at a population that skews older. Vermont attracts a mix of families seeking safe, nature-rich communities; retirees drawn to slower pace and four-season recreation; and remote workers who can afford a cabin with reliable internet. The state’s relatively low crime rates and strong public schools make it particularly appealing for those raising children, while the 148 cities tracked by Finklick—a local real estate analytics platform—show that housing options range from Burlington’s vibrant downtown to tiny villages where a century-old farmhouse might still be within reach.

Quality of life in Vermont is defined by its seasons: maple sugaring in spring,

Explore Vermont Cities

Browse utility costs, housing data, Census demographics, and climate data for all 148 tracked cities in Vermont.

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Data: US Census Bureau ACS 2022, BLS. Updated July 20, 2026.

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