15 Things to Know Before Moving to Vermont

Intrigued by the Green Mountain State? Thinking of moving to Vermont? Vermont has experienced slow population growth in recent years, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth putting on your list of potential destinations, or even potential places to settle down and buy a home. To help you make your decision, here are 15 things to know before moving to Vermont. 

A financial advisor can help you evaluate all your options and resources for a move.

1. Vermont Winters Can Be Harsh

Vermont is a beautiful state but if you hate winter, you may have a hard time dealing with winters in Vermont, even if you recognize the majesty of the snow-covered mountains. The average high temperature in Vermont in January is 28 degrees, and the average low temperature is just 12 degrees. ¹

2. Vermont Has a Low Population

Alaska and Washington, D.C., each have more people than Vermont. The state, known for its green mountains, cheddar cheese and scenic autumns, has the second smallest population out of any U.S. state. Only Wyoming has fewer people. ²  The entire population of Vermont (around 644,663) is less than 7.6% of New York City’s population. ³

3. Vermont Has Lake Towns, But Not Coastal Towns

Though it’s a landlocked state, Vermont still has a seaside feel along Lake Champlain. If you’re used to living near a body of water, or looking for a part-time vacation rental property, consider moving to Burlington or another community on the lake.

4. Ben and Jerry’s Is Big in Vermont

The Ben & Jerry’s factory is in Vermont and you’ll find the brand’s ice cream in stores throughout the state. There’s a lot of Vermont pride attached to the Ben & Jerry’s brand, as well as to other Vermont brands such as Lake Champlain Chocolates, King Arthur Flour, and the Vermont Country Store.

5. Vermont Is Politically Engaged

Vermont isn’t just the home of influential senator and former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders. Residents engage in political action at all levels and openly share their political views to advocate for causes they believe in.

6. Vermonters Are Maple Syrup Snobs

If you host a brunch party in Vermont and serve fake maple syrup, you’re going to get some pushback. Vermonters love the real maple syrup for which the state is famous, as well as the many candies, cookies, sauces and jellies made from Vermont maple syrup.

7. Vermont Is Great for Outdoor Enthusiasts 

Love the outdoors? Feel best when you’re out in nature? You’ll love living in Vermont. Many Vermonters live active lifestyles, whether because they choose to be active in their leisure time or because they work in the state’s agricultural sector. The state has plenty of outdoor places such as national and state forests, parks and campgrounds. Moving to Vermont is a great opportunity to explore the natural world.

8. Covered Bridges Are Common in Vermont

Like other New England states, Vermont boasts some lovely, historic covered bridges. In fact, it has more than 100 of them that date from the 19th century. ⁴ They make popular spots for photo shoots and scenic walks. You can find a map of the state’s covered bridges online.

9. Skiing and Snowboarding Are Big Business 

Even if you don’t like to ski and snowboard yourself, it’s likely that you’ll benefit, at least indirectly, from the winter sports in Vermont after moving there. Tourists who visit the state for skiing and snowboarding are a big boon to the state’s economy. They consider it some of the best skiing in the eastern part of the United States.

10. The Vermont State Fair Is Worth a Visit 

Summer in Vermont means it’s time for the Vermont State Fair. You probably don’t need to add it to your budget every year (unless you plan to sell goods at the fair), but the Vermont State Fair is worth visiting at least once, particularly if you live in Burlington or another urban bubble.

11. Vermont’s Economy Is a Mixed Bag 

There are parts of Vermont that are thriving. However, other parts of the state that have been hard hit by the opioid crisis (such as Rutland ⁵ ) and are low on job opportunities. Many Vermonters subsist on seasonal jobs that change with the weather, like ski resorts in winter and landscaping in summer. This has a lot to do with the recreational tourism that helps drive Vermont’s economy.  If you’re moving to Vermont, it’s probably smart to line up a job before you go. The cost of living in Vermont is relatively high, mostly due to housing, averaging nearly $59,000 in 2025 according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. ⁶

12. Quarries Rock 

Vermont has many quarries, some of which are actively being mined for marble and others of which are sites for swimming, diving and other recreational activities. Sites such as Dorset Quarry and Marble Street Quarry are two popular places to visit. You might want to check out some of the state’s popular swimming holes after moving Vermont, or choose marble from a Vermont quarry if you’re remodeling your kitchen or a similar capital improvement.

13. Lake Champlain Is Deservedly Famous 

Lake Champlain is often called “the sixth Great Lake” and a popular tourist destination. ⁷ To see the lake in all its beauty you can stroll Burlington’s Waterfront Park, take a boat tour of the lake and its islands or bike along the lakefront. It can be a great place to spend recreational time, especially in retirement.

14. Fall in Vermont Makes Up for Winter and ‘Mud Season’ 

We’ve talked about the harsh winters and the messy mud season, but we haven’t mentioned Vermont’s time to shine – fall. Moving to Vermont will probably turn you into a leaf-peeper even if you’ve never been big on fall colors. It’s that beautiful. Many of the most iconic images of a Northeastern fall are shot in Vermont.

15. Taxes Are High

Vermont has some of the nation’s highest income taxes; the top rate is 8.75%. Most Northeasterners are used to state income taxes, but if you’re coming from Texas or another area with low taxes, you might be shocked to see your Vermont paycheck. Vermont also has an estate tax.

Cost of Living and Housing in Vermont

Vermont’s cost of living is moderate compared to other Northeastern states, but it varies significantly depending on where you settle. Housing is generally more affordable than in Massachusetts or New York, but utility costs, groceries, and taxes can add up quickly, particularly for those coming from lower-cost states.

Costs by Category

• Housing. The median home price in Vermont hovers around $400,000, though prices vary considerably by region ⁸ . Burlington and its surrounding communities tend to be the most expensive. Rural areas in the Northeast Kingdom and central Vermont offer more affordable options, though job opportunities in those areas may be limited.
• Utilities. Heating costs in Vermont can be substantial given the long, cold winters. Many homes rely on oil, propane, or wood for heat, and monthly heating bills during winter months can run several hundred dollars depending on the size of the home and the fuel source. Budgeting for energy costs is an important part of planning a move to Vermont.
• Groceries and everyday expenses. Vermont’s grocery costs are slightly above the national average. Local farmers markets and farm stands are popular and widely available, but buying local often comes at a premium. On the other hand, outdoor recreation is largely free or low cost, which can offset some everyday expenses for active residents.
• Taxes. As noted elsewhere in this article, Vermont has some of the highest income tax rates in the country, with a top rate of 8.75%. Property taxes are also relatively high, which factors into the true cost of homeownership in the state. Vermont also has an estate tax, which is worth considering for those with significant assets.

Overall, Vermont can be affordable for those who choose the right location and plan carefully, but the combination of high taxes, heating costs, and a limited job market means that budgeting carefully before making the move is essential.

Places to Visit in Vermont

Visiting a community before committing to a move can give you a feel for daily life that no article can fully capture. Vermont is a small state, but its towns and cities vary widely in character, cost, and pace. Here are five worth visiting as you evaluate your options.

Burlington

Vermont’s largest city is a good first stop for anyone considering a move to the state. Spend a day walking the Church Street Marketplace, strolling the waterfront along Lake Champlain, and exploring the local restaurant and arts scene. The energy here is younger and more urban than most of Vermont, and a visit will quickly tell you whether that fits your lifestyle.

Montpelier

A visit to Montpelier offers a glimpse of small-city Vermont life at its most walkable and community-oriented. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot, with independent bookstores, coffee shops, and restaurants within a few blocks of the State House. It is a good place to visit if you are drawn to a quieter pace without feeling isolated.

Stowe

Stowe is worth a visit in any season. In winter, it gives you a sense of Vermont’s ski culture and the tourism economy that drives many communities. In summer and fall, the hiking, cycling, and scenery make it one of the most visually striking towns in the state. Keep in mind that housing costs here reflect its popularity, but this adds opportunity for rental property investments.

Woodstock

If you are drawn to historic New England charm, Woodstock is one of the best towns in Vermont to walk through. The architecture is exceptionally well preserved, and the town green gives it a classic Vermont feel. A visit here is particularly useful for retirees or remote workers evaluating a slower pace of life.

St. Johnsbury

A visit to St. Johnsbury shows you the Northeast Kingdom, the most rural and affordable part of Vermont. The Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium and the downtown main street offer more than you might expect from a town its size. If remote work flexibility makes affordability your top priority, this part of the state is worth exploring in person before making a decision.

Bottom Line

Vermont is hard to beat for sheer beauty, especially in autumn. Opportunities abound for outdoor recreational activity during all four seasons. Vermont is also one of the oldest in the country, having become a state in 1791. ⁹ Just keep in mind that the tax liability may be prohibitively high for some and jobs are not exactly plentiful.

Tips on Moving

• If you are moving to Vermont, you may want help with how it will impact your finances. A financial advisor can offer valuable insight and guidance. Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can have a free introductory call with your advisor matches to decide which one you feel is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
• Take a look at mortgage rates in Vermont. Rates are still affordable, but you might want to rent before committing to 30 years of Vermont winters.

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