Thinking of moving to Vermont? The Green Mountain State has a $45 billion economy, with growing job opportunities in healthcare, retail trade, and professional services. Vermont is the 7th-best state to live in the US, thanks to its top-tier healthcare system and low crime rates.
But the move comes with trade-offs. Vermont’s median home price is $430,500, and rental costs are 7% higher than the national average. Still, many are drawn to cities like Burlington, Stowe, and Woodstock for their community feel, access to nature, and quality of life.
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AT A GLANCE:
- Vermont has a growing job market in the healthcare, retail trade, and professional services sectors.
- The state ranks as the 7th-best state to live in the US in 2025.
- Vermont’s healthcare system ranks among the top 5 in the country.
- The cost of living in Vermont is 14% higher than the national average. Renting is also 7% more expensive.
- Expect to pay between $2,200 and $6,400 for your move, depending on how far you’re moving and the size of your belongings.
- Vermont has a continental climate. Summers are typically warm and humid, while winters are cold and snowy.
3 Reasons to Move to Vermont
Why settle for just sunny beaches when you can also enjoy the high life? Browse through over thousands of mansions, high-rise penthouses, and spacious luxury homes for sale in Vermont, and enjoy the finest the state has to offer.
1. Healthcare in Vermont
With 17 hospitals across the state, Vermont ranks 5th for its robust healthcare system. University of Vermont (UVM) Medical Center is a top trauma center, and Rutland Regional Medical Center is one of the largest community hospitals in the state.
Additionally, Vermont offers several state-funded healthcare programs, such as Dr. Dynasaur and Vermont Health Connect. Dr. Dynasaur serves as the state’s Medicaid program for children, while Vermont Health Connect operates as a state-run insurance marketplace.
2. Education and Schools in Vermont
Vermont’s education system serves over 80,000 students, with 118 school districts across the state. Here is what you need to know about education in Vermont:
- Public Schools: The state has 305 public schools known for their academic excellence. Mt. Mansfield Union High School in Jericho and Craftsbury School in Craftsbury are among the top public schools in the state.
- Private Schools: Vermont is home to 121 private schools. The average tuition for private schools in Vermont is $23,464 per year. St. Johnsbury Academy and Vermont Academy are among the top private schools in Vermont.
- Higher Education: Vermont is home to 5 public colleges and universities governed by the Vermont State Colleges System. Top universities in the state include the University of Vermont (UVM), Castleton University, and Northern Vermont University.
3. Low Crime Rates
Vermont is the #1 safest state in the US. It has one of the lowest violent crime rates in the country, with only 2.4 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, compared to 4 nationally.
Barre, with 1.2 violent crime incidents, and Swanton, with 0.8 violent crime incidents per 1000 residents, are among the safest cities to live in Vermont.
Pros and Cons of Living in Vermont
Here are the benefits and drawbacks of moving to Vermont:
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. With only 2.4 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, Vermont is the safest state to live in the US. | 1. The cost of living in Vermont is 14% higher than the national average. |
| 2. Vermont’s healthcare system ranks among the top 5 in the country. | 2. Winters in Vermont are harsh, with temperatures ranging from -4°F to 28°F. |
| 3. With over 76% of the state covered in thick forests, Vermont offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. | 3. The state has the 3rd-highest tax burden in the country. |
Things to Know Before Moving to Vermont 📌
Here are some things to keep in mind before relocating to Vermont:
1. Cost of Living in Vermont
The cost of living in Vermont is 14% higher than the national average. This means you’ll spend more on recurring expenses like utilities, food, and healthcare. However, transportation is relatively more affordable.
Vermont can be an attractive option compared to more popular states like California and New York, where living costs are 58% and 30% above the national average.
2. Infrastructure and Transportation
Vermont faces several challenges with its infrastructure. 21% of the roads are in poor or fair condition. Despite a low per capita energy consumption, the state collectively consumes 3 times as much energy as it produces.
However, the state is working on several projects to improve its infrastructure. The Colchester Exit 17 Project is a multi-phase project to improve traffic flow and safety on highways. The GlobalFoundries Energy Storage Project is designed to enhance energy reliability.
3. Climate in Vermont
Vermont has a humid continental climate. Summers are typically warm, with temperatures ranging from 59°F to 81°F. Meanwhile, winters in Vermont tend to be cold and snowy, with temperatures between -4°F and 28°F.
Moreover, the state is prone to flooding from heavy rains, snowmelt, and tropical cyclone remnants. If you’re moving to a city close to a water body (like Burlington or Colchester along Lake Champlain), check the FEMA-designated risk zones and local guidelines.
4. Laws and Regulations
- Vehicle and Driver’s License Registration: After moving to Vermont, you have 60 days to register your vehicle and obtain a Vermont driver’s license. You will need proof of residency, insurance, and title documents for registration.
- Moving to Vermont with a Gun: Adults aged 21 and above do not require permits to purchase a firearm. Both concealed and open carry are allowed without a permit, though you may need one while visiting another state.
- Recreational Marijuana: You can carry up to 1 ounce of marijuana for recreational purposes, if you’re 21 and over. You are also allowed to grow up to 2 mature and 4 immature plants at your home for personal use.
- Pet Registration Laws: State law requires all dogs over 6 months to be registered before April 1st each year, or within 30 days of becoming an owner. Registrations are handled through the town clerk’s office, with fees ranging from $11 to $19 per pet.
5. Tax Burden in Vermont
Vermont is known to have the 3rd-highest tax burden in the country. Here’s a detailed breakdown of Vermont’s primary tax burden for an individual:
- Income Tax in Vermont: Vermont has progressive income tax rates ranging from 3.35% to 8.75% of your annual income. The state does not allow cities to impose any local income taxes.
- Sales Tax in Vermont: The general sales tax rate in Vermont is 6%, but cities can add an additional 1% local sales tax. At present, Hartford, Burlington, and Middlebury have chosen to impose this local tax.
- Property Tax in Vermont: Rates vary by municipality, but Vermont has a 1.42% effective property tax rate. This places it among the top five states with the highest property tax rates in the country.
How to Move to Vermont?
Before buying a house in Vermont, follow this step-by-step guide for a seamless move:
1. How to Plan Your Logistics?
- If you want to skip all the heavy lifting, consider hiring a professional mover. You can expect to pay around $200 per hour. However, this amount can vary depending on the size of your belongings and the distance.
- If you want to DIY, renting a truck is a better option. The average cost to rent a mid-sized truck with a load capacity of 4,000 to 6,000 lbs ranges between $40 and $80 per day. Be sure to factor in additional charges for mileage, fuel, and insurance.
2. How to Set Up Utilities?
Getting your utilities set up is a straightforward process in Vermont:
- Electricity and Gas: Green Mountain Power (GMP) is the largest electricity provider, while Vermont Gas Systems (VGS) is the primary gas service provider in the state. You can visit their respective websites to check the availability of service in your city.
- Water and Sewer: These services are typically managed by the local municipality’s utility department, along with a few private service providers. Visit your city website to find out about service providers in your area.
- Internet and Cable: Xfinity (Comcast) and Spectrum are among the largest internet and cable service providers in Vermont. Costs range from $20 to $80 on average.
3. How to Enroll Your Kids in Schools in Vermont?
Most schools in Vermont offer online registration:
- For Kindergarten: Children must be at least 5 years old for kindergarten, and 6 years old for first grade, with cutoff dates varying by district (August 31 or January 1). You will need the child’s birth certificate, vaccination records, proof of residency, and a photo ID.
- For Older Kids: Prepare all the above-mentioned documents, in addition to transcripts and a withdrawal form from their previous school. If your kids are high school athletes, check their eligibility first to avoid any complications.
- Transfers and Special Cases: These are usually managed by the local school districts. You can directly visit their website or the school district office for assistance in the process.
4. How to Transfer Your Job or Find a New One?
- Work From Home: 32% of employees in Vermont work from their homes. If you are someone who works remotely, just ask your employer about the state-specific tax and employment laws.
- Find a New Job: Vermont JobLink is a state-run job board that allows you to post a resume, save searches, find jobs, and connect with career counselors. Additionally, you can visit job portals like Indeed and LinkedIn to search and apply for jobs in your city.
5. How to Find the Perfect House?
The Vermont housing market favors buyers. 16% listed homes have experienced price drops, while inventory has increased by 23.8%. This gives buyers more negotiating power to secure better deals.
- In popular cities like Burlington, Stowe, and Woodstock, the average rent is around $2,250. This depends on nearby amenities and the neighborhood you are moving to.
- If you plan to buy a home in a popular city, homes for sale in Burlington cost around $410K. For more affordable options, consider cities like Bennington and Newport, which have median home prices of $255K and $264K respectively.
Should I Move to Vermont?
Yes, you should definitely move to Vermont. The state combines new opportunities, a good quality of life, and friendly communities. However, relocating to Vermont isn’t easy. It takes time, careful planning, and effort to find the perfect place to call your home.
With Houzeo, Vermont’s best home-buying website, buying a house in the Green Mountain State is simple. You can browse through the latest listings, save your favorites, schedule showings, and submit offers, all at your fingertips.
» NEED MORE CLARITY? Read these exclusive Houzeo reviews and learn why the platform is the best in America’s competitive housing market.
Data Sources
To help you make a smart move to Vermont, we analyzed key data points that impact relocation costs, lifestyle, and employment prospects. We’ve sourced reliable, up-to-date data across the following categories:
- Statistical Atlas: Major employers
- Zillow: Average rent, Median home price
- MoveBuddha: Estimated moving costs
- Thisoldhouse: DIY truck rental rates, Average cost of moving
By backing our insights with real numbers, we give you a clear picture of what it really takes to relocate to Vermont, long before the moving boxes are packed.
