Moving to Vermont: What You Need to Know
Vermont is the second-least populated state in the country (about 650,000 people) but consistently ranks among the top states for quality of life, safety, and environmental quality. The state offers a remote worker incentive program providing up to $7,500 for those who relocate and work remotely. Burlington, the largest city with just 45,000 people, has been named one of the best small cities in America for its walkability, Lake Champlain waterfront, and farm-to-table dining. Vermont's economy is driven by tourism (skiing, fall foliage), agriculture (dairy, maple syrup, craft beer), and a growing remote work sector.
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Cost of Living in Vermont
Median Home Price
$380,000
Median Monthly Rent
$1,400/mo
Avg Local Move
$1,050
Avg Long-Distance Move
$4,400
Taxes in Vermont
| Tax Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| State Income Tax | 3.35%–8.75% (progressive) |
| Effective Property Tax | 1.83% |
| State Sales Tax | 6% + local up to 1% |
Job Market & Economy
Vermont Climate & Weather
Four distinct seasons with cold, snowy winters and warm, pleasant summers. Heavy snow in mountain areas (200+ inches at ski resorts). Fall foliage is world-famous. Mud season (March–April) is a real challenge.
Best Cities to Move to in Vermont
Pros and Cons of Living in Vermont
Pros
- +Stunning natural beauty with mountains, forests, and charming villages
- +Excellent quality of life with strong community bonds
- +Burlington offers a vibrant, walkable small-city experience
- +Remote worker relocation incentive program
Cons
- -Very high property taxes and overall tax burden
- -Limited job market with low wages
- -Long, cold winters with heavy snow
- -Lack of diversity and very small population
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to move to Vermont?
A local move within Vermont averages $700–$1,200. Moving from neighboring New England states costs $800–$2,000. Cross-country moves to Vermont typically run $4,000–$7,500. Vermont's rural nature and limited carrier coverage can increase costs for remote areas.
What is Vermont's remote worker incentive?
Vermont offers the Remote Worker Grant Program, which provides up to $7,500 over two years for people who move to Vermont and work remotely for an out-of-state employer. The program has been popular and helped attract younger workers to the state. Requirements include becoming a full-time Vermont resident, working for a Vermont employer or working remotely for an out-of-state company, and committing to live in Vermont for at least two years.
Is Burlington a good place to live?
Burlington is widely considered one of the best small cities in America. It offers a walkable downtown, Church Street Marketplace, Lake Champlain waterfront, excellent restaurants, craft breweries (Vermont leads the nation per capita), and proximity to Stowe and other ski resorts. The University of Vermont and UVM Medical Center are major employers. The downside is high housing costs for such a small city (median around $450,000) and brutally cold winters.
What are Vermont winters like?
Vermont winters are long, cold, and snowy, typically from November through April. Burlington averages 75 inches of snow, while mountain areas receive 200+ inches. January temperatures average highs of 25°F and lows of 7°F. "Mud season" (late March through mid-May) is a uniquely Vermont challenge when melting snow turns dirt roads to mud. The payoff is world-class skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
Is Vermont expensive to live in?
Vermont is more expensive than most people expect. Property taxes average 1.83% (among the highest in the nation), income tax goes up to 8.75%, and housing costs have risen sharply with remote workers driving demand. Burlington's median home price is around $450,000. More affordable areas include Rutland, Barre, and St. Johnsbury. Groceries and utilities are above national averages. The trade-off is exceptional quality of life, safety, and natural beauty.