Exploring The Perks And Pitfalls of Moving To Vermont
Is Vermont a good place to live? Let’s explore the question and break down all the pros and cons of living in Vermont. Then, you can determine if moving to Vermont is your best decision.
Is Vermont A Good Place To Live?
Vermont offers an idyllic setting and fantastic lifestyle with its vast, untouched landscapes, picturesque towns, low crime, good health outcomes, and excellent outdoor opportunities. All these factors make Vermont an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a high quality of life.
Vermont real estate professional Jacob Barnes says the state attracts a specific type of person who falls in love with living here. However, the snow, high taxes, limited diversity, and lack of commercial entertainment options won’t be for everyone (source).
The above highlights about Vermont living are helpful. However, I recommend carefully considering the following pros and cons before packing and moving.
Living In Vermont Pros And Cons: Side-By-Side Comparison
| Living in Vermont Pros | Living in Vermont Cons |
| 1. Scenic beauty | 13. Harsh winter weather |
| 2. Lake Champlain | 14. Sloppy mud season |
| 3. Low population | 15. High living costs |
| 4. Winter sports | 16. Excessive income tax |
| 5. Limited commercialization | 17. High real estate tax |
| 6. Light traffic | 18. Limited job options |
| 7. Wholesome local foods | 19. Small economy |
| 8. Low crime rate | 20. Desperate for workers |
| 9. Respectful residents | 21. Lacking diversity |
| 10. Good health | |
| 11. Moderate housing costs | |
| 12. Close to so much more |
Next, I will go into greater detail about these Vermont pros and cons.
Disclosure: At no cost to you, I may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
Pros Of Living In Vermont
1. Vermont Is Full Of Scenic And Natural Beauty
Vermont has a scenic outdoor landscape, providing year-round enjoyment.
The Green Mountains cut through the state from North to South. They are part of the Appalachian range and are named for staying green throughout the winter.
Beyond the mountains are rolling hills, forests, and farmland. Lakes, rivers, and waterfalls dot the landscape. There are more than 100 covered bridges, primarily constructed in the mid-1800s.
Next, autumn brings turning leaves. Residents and visitors enjoy the vibrant colors the New England states are famous for.
Finally, Vermont becomes a winter wonderland when seasonal snow blankets the landscape.
To sum up, you will find Vermont a beautiful and picturesque state.
2. Lake Champlain Is An Amazing Feature For So Many Reasons
Vermont’s Lake Champlain is located over the border with upstate New York.
Vermont is the only state in New England without an Atlantic Ocean coastline. However, Lake Champlain makes up for it being a dramatic water feature in its own right.
Fishing and boating on the lake are popular outdoor activities. The fresh waters are home to nearly 100 species of fish.
The lake has several islands. They mainly cater to resorts and visitors enjoying a holiday.
Furthermore, there are many charming towns near the waterfront to live in or visit, including:
- Alburgh
- Addison
- Burlington
- Charlotte
- Colchester
- Ferrisburgh
- Grand Isle
- Isle la Motte
- North Hero
- Panton
- Shelburne
- South Burlington
- South Hero
These quaint places are the essence of Vermont living, offering picturesque waterfronts, restaurants, and local shops.
So, you may ask yourself about the unspoiled land and natural beauty here. Please allow me to explain further.
3. The Low Population Density Allows Vermont To Remain In Its Natural State
Vermont has a small population and a low population density. So, the state’s natural environment remains primarily untouched.
For example, only Wyoming in the west has fewer residents. Even the very remote state of Alaska has more locals than Vermont.
Here are several other points of interest about Vermont’s population base:
Vermont has the smallest capital city. It is Montpelier, located in central Vermont. The town’s population is about 8,000 residents.
Vermont has only one city with over 40,000 residents. It is Burlington, located on Lake Champlain.
As a result, living in Vermont means you are always close to uncrowded spaces here.
4. Vermont Is A Place For Winter Sports Lovers
Vermont is known for its winter sports. Ice fishing, ice skating, snowboarding, and skiing are popular activities.
For example, the state is home to nearly 25 ski resorts. Some of the most popular ski areas in the state include Stowe, Killington, Jay, and Stratton. The resorts are in the state’s Western region along the Appalachian mountain range.
So, you may move to Brattleboro in the state’s southeastern corner. Or, select from more central locations like Middlebury and Rutland. Either way, you won’t be far from some excellent skiing.
More reading: Another traditional New England state
Okay. Enough about the great outdoors. Next, I have another one of the many good reasons to live in Vermont.
5. There Is Limited Commercialization In Vermont
Living in Vermont is perfect if you seek a peaceful way of life removed from the hustle of urban living.
For example, residents prefer shopping in smaller, locally-owned stores. They tend to avoid malls, outlets, and big-box outlets.
There are no billboards along the roadsides. The law prohibits these ads to preserve the natural beauty of the landscapes.
Next, there are very few chain hotels here. So, your out-of-town visitors will enjoy the personality of small inns and B&Bs, offering a more intimate setting. After moving to Vermont, these places are perfect for your weekend retreats to get away from it all.
To sum up, Vermonters enjoy and appreciate less commercialization in their state.
6. Light Traffic Is A Bonus For Vermont Residents
Vermont has little traffic on the roadways. You don’t have to worry about getting stuck in traffic jams.
Yes, downtown Burlington can get a little busy, but that’s about it. Otherwise, the roads around the state are mostly wide open.
Next up, everyone’s favorite topic. I’m talking about food!
7. Vermont Is Known For Wholesome Local Foods
Vermont’s local specialty foods embody simple and basic living.
Cheese and ice cream are made from fresh ingredients from local dairy farms. Ben and Jerry’s famous ice cream was founded here.
The state’s maple syrup is some of the best made worldwide.
More reading: This state maintains a charming lifestyle
8. You Won’t Find Much Crime In And Around Vermont
Vermont has a low crime rate, similar to its neighboring state of New Hampshire. Crime rates in this northeast region of the country are always near the safest anywhere in the U.S.
The limited crime makes Vermont a great place to raise a family or retire because the state is a secure and safe place to live.
Here’s another good thing about Vermont.
9. Respectful, Politically Engaged People Live In Vermont
Vermonters are friendly, neighborly, and willing to lend a helping hand.
They have a knack for compromise and working together. At the same time, they believe in tolerance and respect for others.
Most of the people here are politically engaged in some way. Residents are open with their views but still respectful of others.
Civic engagement is taught in high school. Everyone is encouraged to vote and participate in their state and local government.
More reading: A Southern state with access to the Appalachians
Next, I have another one of the advantages of living in Vermont, as you consider the pros and cons.
10. The People Living In Vermont Get High Grades For Health And Vitality
Vermont is one of the healthiest states in the country. (Source: USA Today study).
The study and others by the United Health Foundation attribute the overall well-being of Vermonters to:
- Limited obesity
- Low rate of smoking
- High rates of physical activity
Furthermore, Vermont’s public health funding is among the highest in the nation. Thus, there are fewer health concerns in this state to worry about.
11. In Vermont, Finding A Place To Live Won’t Cost An Arm And A Leg
Vermont’s housing costs are more affordable than other parts of New England. I attribute the savings to the state’s small-town rural environment and limited population.
For example, median home prices are about 9% less than the comparable U.S. figure. Apartment rents can be found for 11% less on average (sources: Redfin and World Population Review).
12. Regional Travel In And Around Vermont Is Easy
Vermont has an excellent transportation infrastructure for getting from place to place. Plus, there are some great nearby states and cities for when you want to get away.
From Vermont, Amtrak trains run directly into New York City. The state has two major interstate highways. They are very efficient for intrastate and interstate travel.
After moving to Vermont, you will have easy access to states on the East Coast and their metropolitan areas.
For example, from Burlington:
You can drive to Boston in a little more than 3 hours. Explore this historic city and the surrounding Atlantic coastline of Massachusetts.
Syracuse, New York, is less than 5 hours away, and New York City is under six hours by car.
Montreal is even closer. You can reach this Canadian city in about an hour and a half drive.
Okay now. That concludes my top pros of living in Vermont. However, it’s time to switch gears.
An article about the pros and cons of living in Vermont is incomplete without addressing the bad things about Vermont living, too. Read closely so you won’t regret moving to Vermont.
Cons Of Living In Vermont
13. The Winter Season Won’t Appeal To Everyone
Vermont’s winter weather is challenging to deal with. The extreme winter weather here won’t be for everyone.
First, temperatures are cold. They rarely rise above freezing during January and February.
Furthermore, Vermont gets a lot of snow. Nearly 100 inches is possible during the worst winter seasons.
So, be prepared to clear a lot of snow. Some residents shovel the roofs of their homes to avoid damage from the weight. Consider a garage for your car and a snow removal service if you can afford it.
Vermont’s snow storms make getting around slow and exhausting. Be prepared for white-knuckle driving. Or, plan on staying in your Vermont home when the snow flies.
Finally, the state’s roads are littered with potholes as the snow melts and seasonal temperatures rise.
14. There Is A Sloppy Mud Season
Vermont’s 5th weather season is known as the mud season.
Mud season occurs because of the frozen ground, massive melting snow, and spring rains.
The ground becomes a soggy, muddy mess. Mud season typically extends from late March into early June.
So, consider investing in good waterproof boots for yard work and hiking.
More reading: Other states to choose from
15. Paying For The High Cost Of Living In Vermont
Vermont’s cost of living is high compared to other states.
Earlier, I mentioned housing costs are reasonable. However, groceries, transportation, and health care costs are 5-10% higher. Utility bills are nearly 20% more. Thus, heating your home during the winter months comes with a hefty price tag (source: Movoto.com)
For saving money, here are a couple of tips:
Pro tip #1: Use the rebate app from Rakuten for cash back on your online purchases.
Pro tip #2: Manage your expenses, budget, and investments in one convenient place with the free money app from Empower.
16. Vermont Residents Have An Excessive Income Tax Burden
Vermont charges residents high taxes on their incomes.
The state runs a progressive income tax system. That’s a fancy way of saying the more money you make, the higher your income tax rate.
So, high earners beware since this state has high tax rates. The tax brackets rise to nearly 9% for high-earning married filers.
Are you considering retiring in Vermont? If yes, be aware that the state taxes all retirement and social security income.
So, if you want to escape harsh winters and high taxes, move to Nevada! Or, another warm weather, no-tax state like Tennessee or Florida.
Moving right along, unfortunately, I’m not done with your taxes.
17. High Property Taxes For Those Living In Vermont
Vermont has one of the highest property tax rates in the nation. Plan on paying nearly 2% applied annually to the assessed value of your home.
With all the costs and taxes for living in this state, carefully watch your budget.
Okay. Enough about spending money and taxes. Next, I want to talk about making money.
Unfortunately, this next topic makes living less affordable for many in Vermont.
More reading: The top 10 list of best states to live in
18. The State Doesn’t Have A Lot Of High-Paying Jobs
Vermont doesn’t have many high-paying jobs that you typically find in other states with big cities.
So, if you are upwardly mobile and want to make a lot of money, Vermont life may not be the best fit.
For example, investment banking, management consulting, and senior business management roles in cutting-edge industries are in short supply. As a result, you won’t have a lot of job opportunities here.
19. Vermont’s Economy Is Small
Vermont has the smallest state economy in the country
Cultural resistance to change and resistance to new development keeps many industries from starting up or relocating to Vermont. The environment puts a damper on economic growth.
On the other hand, the state has a low unemployment rate.
I attribute the low unemployment rate to the small population, residents taking out-of-state jobs, and a large segment of retirees not looking for work.
Vermont is unlike the southwestern state of Arizona. That state has a large mix of young people combined with its robust population of retirees.
20. Vermont Is Desperate For Workers To Fill Basic But Essential Jobs
Vermont’s unemployment rate is low because the state is desperate for workers.
The state has offered attractive relocation incentives for those willing to move to Vermont and fill high-demand jobs, such as:
- Cashiers
- Home health aides
- Restaurant servers
- Bookkeepers and accountants
- Customer service reps
- Administrative assistants
The challenge is that these positions do not pay well compared to the state’s cost of living. Thus, people working these jobs can’t afford to live in Vermont.
21. The State Lacks Of Diversity In Multiple Ways
Vermont is not culturally diverse. And there are fewer commercial entertainment options for you and your family.
First, more than 90% of the population is white.
So, there isn’t much international culture. Nor will you find many Asian or Mexican-inspired restaurants that line the streets of metropolitan areas.
Second, the state has a large base of older residents. Thus, there are fewer younger residents to inspire change and new ideas.
Next, the art scene is lacking. The state has chosen to focus more on its history versus modern art.
Finally, commercial entertainment options are limited. For example, you won’t find a lot of nightlife, theme parks, or the presence of oceanfront beaches in this state like other parts of New England offer.
Okay. That’s all I have for today’s discussion about the advantages and disadvantages of living in Vermont. Please allow me to offer some parting thoughts.
Living In Vermont Pros And Cons – (A Good Place To Live?)
Living in Vermont has many positives. However, the state doesn’t fit everyone’s lifestyle. As a result, I hope this article has helped you answer these key questions:
- Is Vermont a good place to live?
- Why should I move to Vermont?
- Is Vermont a nice place to retire?
Good luck with your decision. No matter where you choose to settle down.
More Reading About The Pros And Cons Of Living In Vermont And Far Beyond
- Why live here and not there
- Something about each and every state
- Some cheaper and warmer places to retire
Author Bio: Tom Scott founded the consulting and coaching firm Dividends Diversify, LLC. He leverages his expertise and decades of experience in goal setting, relocation assistance, and investing for long-term wealth to help clients reach their full potential.
