Fairlee, VT Utility & Living Guide

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Fairlee, VT Utility & Living Guide

Fairlee is a town in Orange County, Vermont, United States. The population was 988 at the 2020 census. It includes the village of Ely. Fairlee is home to Lake Morey, which claims to have the longest ice skating trail in the United States.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$300/mo
1BR Rent$1000/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index118 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Fairlee
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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

Fairlee Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Casella Waste Systems
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$300/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1000/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.8%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Fairlee is relatively affordable, with a range of options from cozy cottages to larger family homes. Rentals are also available, although options may be limited. The town’s rural setting and natural beauty make it an attractive choice for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle.

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 Rate1.8%
<p>State 6% + No County or City tax</p>

Vermont has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 3.35% to 8.95%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

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

Fairlee has limited public transportation options, but the town is relatively small and walkable, with some sidewalks and bike paths

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Lake Fairlee
  • 🎯
    Fairlee Town Forest
  • 🎯
    Montshire Museum of Science

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The village center and surrounding neighborhoods offer a charming and family-friendly atmosphere, with easy access to parks, schools, and local amenities. The town's rural areas also provide a peaceful and natural setting, with opportunities for outdoor exploration and recreation.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Fairlee has regulations in place to protect its natural environment and preserve its rural character, including zoning ordinances and environmental protections.

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📊 Fairlee — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Fairlee tend to be higher in the winter months due to heating needs, with average electricity bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In contrast, summer months see lower utility bills, with a focus on cooling and water usage.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 05045 has a property tax millage rate of 1.8%, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10, with explanation: Fairlee has some sidewalks and bike paths, but they can be limited and uneven in some areas. The town's rural setting and natural beauty are assets, but may require more planning and effort to navigate with a stroller.

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