Fairfax, VT Utility & Living Guide

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Fairfax, VT Utility & Living Guide

Fairfax is a town in Franklin County, Vermont, United States, with a population of 5,014 at the 2020 census.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index118 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$340,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Fairfax
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Green Mountain Power
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Fairfax Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Casella Waste Systems
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$340,000
Property Tax Rate1.75%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Fairfax is relatively stable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Prices have been steadily increasing in recent years, but there are still affordable options for buyers and renters. The town has a range of housing types, from apartments to single-family homes.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

118

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

94

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6%
Property Tax Rate1.75%
<p>State 6% + No County or City tax</p>

Vermont has a progressive state income tax, with rates ranging from 3.75% to 8.95%. Fairfax residents are also subject to federal income tax.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

55

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description, with a mix of liberal and conservative views
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including agriculture, tourism, and small business
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, environmental protection, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Fairfax has limited public transportation options, but the town is relatively small and walkable, making it accessible for families with strollers.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Smugglers' Notch State Park
  • 🎯
    Fairfax Community Park
  • 🎯
    Missisquoi River

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The town center and surrounding neighborhoods offer a mix of older and newer homes, with easy access to schools, parks, and local businesses. The area around Smugglers' Notch State Park is also popular with families, offering scenic views and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Fairfax based on your household profile.

📰 Live Local News

Fairfax has regulations in place to protect the town’s natural resources and environment, including zoning laws and ordinances related to waste management and recycling.

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📊 Fairfax — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Fairfax tend to be higher in the winter months, when heating is needed, and lower in the summer months, when cooling is less necessary. However, the town's mild climate means that energy costs are relatively stable throughout the year.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 05454 has a property tax millage rate of 1.75%, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10: Fairfax has relatively good sidewalk quality and park access, but elevator access in transit is limited, and family infrastructure such as changing tables and nursing rooms may not be widely available.

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