Vermont may be known for its picturesque landscapes and small-town charm, but how does its cost of living stack up? While it’s more affordable than some East Coast hotspots, it can still pack a punch in the housing and utility departments, especially in popular areas like Burlington. Whether you’re drawn to the quiet of the mountains or the energy of city life, understanding what you’ll pay for housing, utilities, and other essentials is key to making the Green Mountain State your home. Let’s break down the numbers to see how much the cost of living in Vermont is.
Housing costs: Median home prices and average rent in Vermont
The cost of living in Vermont is relatively affordable, especially when compared to nearby Northeast states, though housing costs can vary depending on the area. In cities like Burlington and the ski resort towns, you’ll see higher prices, with rents pushing toward or above the state average. The average rent in Vermont sits around $1,560, which is a bit below the national average rent of $1,645, but still reflects the state’s growing popularity. On the flip side, more rural areas like St. Johnsbury and Barre offer cheaper housing options, with rents and home prices lower than in Vermont’s urban centers.
Vermont housing costs: Average rents and median home sale prices
| City in Vermont | 1 Bed Avg. Rent | 2 Bed Avg. Rent | Median Home Sale Price |
| National Average | $1,495 | $1,725 | $428,000 |
| Brattleboro | $1,500 | $2,600 | $300,000 |
| Burlington | $1,700 | $2,200 | $527,500 |
| Middlebury | $1,590 | $2,400 | $379,000 |
| South Burlington | $1,500 | $2,200 | $515,000 |
| Winooski | $1,600 | $1,875 | $435,000 |
Housing costs in popular cities in Vermont
Brattleboro
Brattleboro offers a small-town charm with an artistic flair, making it an attractive, affordable choice in Vermont. With 1-bedroom rents averaging $1,500 and 2-bedrooms at $2,600, rent prices in Brattleboro are quite a bit higher than the average rent in Vermont, $1,560. However, it’s a more budget-friendly option compared to Vermont’s larger cities. The median home sale price sits at $300,000, well below the national median sale price $428,000, making homeownership a feasible choice for many.
Burlington
As the largest city in Vermont, Burlington is a vibrant urban hub surrounded by picturesque lake views and abundant green spaces. While Burlington offers a wealth of cultural and recreational amenities, it does come with a higher price tag. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,700, and a 2-bedroom goes for around $2,200. The median home sale price in Burlington is a hefty $527,500, reflecting the city’s desirability and proximity to major institutions like the University of Vermont. Housing costs here are considerably higher than the national average rent of $1,645, but for many, the city’s urban charm and convenience are worth the investment. If you’re looking for city life combined with the natural beauty of the Green Mountains, Burlington may be the place—just be prepared for a steeper price.
Middlebury
Middlebury, a historic college town, combines small-town charm with a higher education atmosphere, making it an appealing choice for both residents and students. The cost of living in Middlebury is slightly above Vermont’s average, with a 1-bedroom apartment renting for about $1,590 and a 2-bedroom for $2,400, significantly higher than the average rent in Vermont. Middlebury’s inviting community and high quality of life make it a worthwhile destination for those seeking a blend of urban amenities and country living.
Vermont residents pay more for utilities, on average
Utilities in Vermont tend to run slightly higher than the national average, contributing to the overall cost of living. On average, residents pay around $324.49 per month for essentials like gas, electricity, water, and sewer services. When you factor in internet and phone bills, the total rises to approximately $624.49, compared to the national average of $609.90. Vermont’s colder winters can push heating costs higher, making energy efficiency an important consideration for residents. While costs may vary by region (utilities are 14% higher than the national average in Burlington), budgeting for these higher utility expenses is a smart move for anyone planning a move to Vermont.
Vermont leads the nation as one of the most expensive states for groceries
Grocery costs in Vermont are among the highest in the nation, second only to Hawaii. Residents spend about 40% more on groceries than the national average, reflecting Vermont’s rural nature and the logistical challenges of supplying goods to smaller markets. On average, those living in Vermont spend around $497.21 monthly on groceries, compared to the US average of $354.50. While the state’s focus on local and organic produce adds to the appeal of shopping, it can also increase costs. For those moving to Vermont, it’s worth noting that food budgets here demand extra attention and can result in a higher cost of living, especially if you’re accustomed to lower grocery prices elsewhere. However, the quality and emphasis on farm-fresh options may make the higher expense worth it.
Transportation costs in Vermont are fairly average
Transportation costs in Vermont align closely with the national average, with gas prices hovering around $3.13 per gallon, just slightly above the U.S. average of $3.07. Vermont’s rural landscape means owning a car is often necessary, and while gas prices are manageable, maintenance and repairs can add up due to the state’s harsh winters and rugged roads. Public transportation is limited to services like Green Mountain Transit, primarily serving Burlington and nearby towns, making it less practical for most residents. If you’re moving to Vermont, factoring in car ownership and related costs is key to understanding the overall cost of living here.
Varied healthcare costs in Vermont
Healthcare costs in Vermont can vary widely depending on your personal needs, insurance coverage, and the type of care you require. While Vermont is known for its focus on accessible healthcare, services here aren’t always cheap. Routine doctor visits, for example, tend to be higher than the national average of $142.74, especially in cities like Burlington, where a typical visit costs $181.17. Dental care also comes at a premium, with Burlington’s average of $129 exceeding the national average of $116.86. It’s essential to account for insurance premiums, co-pays, prescriptions, and out-of-pocket expenses when planning your budget. Whether you’re visiting a specialist in Burlington or relying on local clinics in smaller towns, healthcare will be a significant but manageable part of the cost of living in Vermont.
Vermont is known for its higher-than-average taxes
Taxes play a notable role in the cost of living in Vermont. The state has a graduated income tax with rates ranging from 3.35% to 8.75%, meaning higher earners will see a steeper tax burden. Sales taxes are moderate by comparison, with a 6% state rate and an average combined state and local rate of 6.36%, close to national rates which tend to fall between 5-7% on average. However, property taxes are where Vermont stands out, with an effective rate of 1.56% on owner-occupied homes, which is something to strongly consider if you plan to buy a home here. These factors contribute to Vermont’s ranking as 43rd on the 2025 State Tax Competitiveness Index, placing it among the least tax-friendly states. For those considering a move, it’s crucial to factor taxes into your overall cost of living in Vermont calculations.
How much do I need to earn to live in Vermont?
To live comfortably in Vermont, it’s helpful to follow the 30% rule, which suggests allocating no more than 30% of your gross monthly income to housing. With the average rent in Vermont at $1,560, you’d need to earn about $5,200 per month, or $62,400 annually, to keep your budget in balance. However, living in Burlington—a more expensive city—raises the bar. A one-bedroom apartment here averages $1,700, requiring a monthly income of around $5,667, or $68,000 annually, to stay within the 30% threshold. However, it’s important to remember that while Vermont’s housing costs are relatively manageable compared to other states, the overall cost of living here is higher in areas like groceries, healthcare, and utilities. These factors can add up, so it’s wise to plan for a bit more income to cover all expenses comfortably.
Methodology
Average 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom rent sourced from Rent. Median home sale price, state average monthly rent, national rent prices, and cost of living data sourced from Redfin.
