Orleans, VT Utility & Living Guide

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Orleans, VT Utility & Living Guide

Orleans is a village in the northwestern corner of Barton, Orleans County, Vermont, United States. With a population of 788 at the 2020 census, it is the largest village in the county.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1000/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Orleans
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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

Orleans Village Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Casella Waste Systems
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1000/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.8%
Avg Childcare/mo$900

The housing market in Orleans is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Rentals are scarce, and prices may vary depending on the location and condition of the property. Overall, the market is steady, with a moderate demand for homes.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

98

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$900

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 3.75% to 8.95%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$900/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 in tourism, agriculture, and small manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, infrastructure, and environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Orleans has limited public transportation, but the town is relatively small and walkable, with some sidewalks and crosswalks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Barton River
  • 🎯
    Willoughby State Forest
  • 🎯
    Orleans Village Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The village center and surrounding neighborhoods offer a mix of older and newer homes, with easy access to local amenities and outdoor recreational areas. The area around the Barton River is also popular for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.

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📊 Orleans — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Orleans tend to be higher in the winter months due to heating needs, with an average increase of 20-30% from December to February. In the summer, costs are relatively lower, with a focus on electricity for cooling and water usage.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 05860 has a property tax millage rate of 1.8, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, with a mix of good and poor sidewalk quality, limited park access, and some elevator access in transit, but overall a relatively family-friendly infrastructure

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