Home to charming towns, Phish, farm-to-table dining, and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream (along with claiming the title of the nation’s largest maple syrup producer), Vermont offers a lot in a small package. Despite its tiny size, the Green Mountain State also has the second smallest population in the nation, which means residents still have plenty of room to stretch out their legs. Voted the healthiest state in the union, filled with awe-inspiring scenery, and offering growing opportunities for building a great life, Vermont presents a lovely alternative to the crowded living in most parts of the Northeast.
Are you considering a move to Vermont? If so, you’ve come to the right page. Great Guys Long Distance Movers has created this informative guide to moving to Vermont (conveniently separated into the following sections). We hope this helps make your decision much easier!
Moving to the Green Mountain State? Before you pack, consider the following things before heading to the 6th smallest (9,614 square miles) and 2nd least populous state (627,000 residents).
To Rent or Buy? Overall, it is a better option to buy rather than rent in Vermont. The average mortgage is $1,233. The average monthly rent is $1,612. Another incentive is the Remote Worker Grant Program, which pays new residents with out-of-state employers up to $10,000 to cover moving and housing costs.
According to the Cost of Living in Vermont by BestPlaces, Vermont has a cost of living index of 101.0. This index is slightly above the nationwide index of 100.
Using EPI’s Family Budget Calculator, we can compare the average monthly costs in three Vermont areas. We’ll use a family of four for these examples (2 adults + 2 children).
The state of Vermont has a humid continental climate. As with other New England states, it enjoys distinct four seasons (though the winter can be especially long). This results in snowy winters, muddy springs, warm & humid summers, and colorful autumns.
The rural northeastern region of Vermont (known as the Northeast Kingdom) sees colder temperatures compared to the southern portion of the state, particularly during winter months. The Green Mountain State is among the Top 10 coldest states in America during the winter season.
Vermont is one of the Top 10 states safest from natural disasters. It also ranks high in emergency preparedness. Of course, this doesn’t exclude the northeastern state from disasters.
According to Economy Rankings by US News & World Report, Vermont is currently ranked #29 in the United States. This score depends on three subcategories: the business environment (#28), employment (#21), and growth (#31). Its GDP is approximately $32.5 billion, and the median income is $32,443.
Through its key industries – manufacturing, tech, energy, and agriculture – Vermont continues to strive as a great place to start a business or thrive as an entrepreneur.
Though a small state, Vermont nonetheless offers plenty of choices for getting around. In 2019, the governor signed legislation allowing for the investment of over $600 million into the state’s transportation system (as well as boosting truck-driving opportunities for military veterans).
According to Best and Worst States to Drive In by WalletHub, Vermont comes in at #37 in the country. WalletHub determines its ratings based on four subcategories: cost of ownership & maintenance (#40), traffic & infrastructure (#26), safety (#11), and access to vehicles & maintenance (#35).
Though it’s known for its superb skiing, Vermont offers much more than just powdery slopes and ski lodges. Below, we’ve included our top picks for fun stuff to do and see in The Green Mountain State!
The State of Freedom and Unity is home to family-friendly attractions and tasty destinations.
Along with world-famous Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, Vermont is home to leading farm-to-table dining delights, steeped in tradition and small-scale, hyper-local sourcing.
Want to explore Vermont’s stunning natural beauty? Consider these popular state parks:
There are some amazing museums in Vermont. Here’s our top 10 selection:
Looking for something off the beaten path in Vermont? Consider the following:
Ranked #3 among states with the best schools by USA Today, Vermont boasts the highest public-school funding in the nation (at $20,795 per student). It also has the 11th highest high-school graduation rate at nearly 88%. As for higher education, the tiny state is chock-full of sought-after colleges and universities.
A resident of Vermont is defined as an individual that lives in the state (domiciled) and has a permanent place to live here (either a long-term rental or home that is purchased), along with physically living in the state for at least 183 days out of the year.
As previously mentioned in the ‘Housing Market’ section, through what’s called the Remote Worker Grant Program, the state is currently offering up to $10,000 to remote workers that move to Vermont.
As for in-state tuition, each college and university has its own interpretation and set of qualifications. Make sure to read the fine print when it comes to applying for in-state status.
After moving to the state, drivers have 60 days to obtain a VT driver’s license.
Steps to getting a new license:
New VT residents must register an out-of-state vehicle within 60 days.
First, you must get a VT driver’s license. Next, present the following to the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles: 1) a completed vehicle registration application 2) The current title 3) A current odometer reading 4) Proof of payment of vehicle taxes paid in previous state 5) Vehicle identification number (VIN) verification 6) Proof of liability insurance 7) Payment for applicable fees and taxes.
Upon completion of the above steps, new residents have 15 days to have the vehicle inspected by a Vermont Licensed Inspection Station. You then will be issued new VT plates.
If you are 16 years of age or older, you can pre-register to vote. You may register to vote online, by mail, or in-person (via your local municipal clerk). All registrants are required to take the Voter’s Oath. The state allows early voting and no-excuse absentee voting. Automatic registration occurs when you visit a DMV or another government agency. Voters are only required to present ID if it’s their first time voting.
*Note: Convicted felons in Vermont never lose their voting rights in the state.
Population: 19,000
Median Home Value: $305,000
First on our tour of Northern Vermont, we stop in South Burlington. Home to Ben & Jerry’s (and the state’s largest mall, University Mall), this small city of under 20,000 is either the #1 or #2 best place to live in the state, depending on whether you talk to someone from South Burlington or Norwich. Some 62% of residents own their homes, and the public schools are exceptional.
What makes South Burlington so special? First, the public schools are ranked in the top percentile nationwide. Love food? The local foodie scene is amazing. Offering a wide variety of cuisines (from Nepali to Turkish and Thai), South Burlington’s food scene also boasts award-winning craft beer, cheeses, the list goes on. Public transportation is convenient, and the town’s healthcare is world-class. Surrounded by greenery and trees, this gem also has no shortage of hiking trails and scenic routes. Oh, and this is also a super dog-friendly place to boot!
As one of the top states that people moved to last year, Vermont is having its moment, and this city is a big reason for that. Offering great job opportunities, superb education, and low crime rates, South Burlington is a great place for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
Population: 3,800
Median Home Value: $535,200
Our next stop takes us to one of Vermont’s top tiny towns, Charlotte. Considered the second-best place to raise a family in the state, it is beautifully situated on the shoreline of Champlain Lake (south of Burlington and Shelburne). A testament to the town’s affordability, some 91% of residents own their homes, and the public schools are fantastic.
Filled with Vermont vibe, Charlotte is the type of town you dream of when the state comes to mind. Two top attractions are Dakin Farms and the Basin Harbor Maritime Museum. It is also home to Mount Philo, perfect for a nice hike or camping. Another aspect of this town that shines is its local schools. On top of that, Burlington is only 10 minutes away, which offers a quick commute for work, play, or school in the state’s largest urban area. The ferry on Lake Champlain also provides access to Essex, New York.
Need to consider educational options? Top public schools serving the Charlotte area include Champlain Union High School, Charlotte Central School, and Willsboro Central School. The University of Vermont and Champlain University are a short drive away in the city of Burlington.
Are you looking for the quintessential charm of a small Vermont town? You’ve found it in Charlotte.
Population: 5,000
Median Home Value: $346,400
Jericho, located in Chittenden County, is considered the #1 place to buy a house in Vermont. Gifted with views of gorgeous trees and Vermont’s tallest mountain, Mount Mansfield, Jericho is the epitome of countryside living. 89% of residents are homeowners, and the public schools are highly rated.
As a close-knit community, Jericho offers a rural lifestyle at its finest. It is a safe, clean, and friendly place filled with folks that tend to be family-oriented. Along with many historical areas to visit, the town also hosts several annual events like the Underhill Harvest Market (every September) and the summertime Jericho Famer’s Market. On the downside, there isn’t much to do here aside from these events and outdoor activities (which, for some, is a big selling point). If you’re looking to explore or commute, Burlington and Waterbury are just 20 minutes away, north and south, respectively.
Are you raising children? Top public schools serving the Jericho area include Mt. Mansfield Union High School, Camels Hump Middle School (CHMS), Browns River Middle School, Jericho Elementary School, and Underhill ID School. Looking for private education? Consider Saxon Hill School.
Offering a quaint and timeless appeal, Jericho is a great place to purchase a home and settle down.
Population: 7,500
Median Home Value: $255,700
As we continue our tour, we find ourselves in Montpelier. This city of less than 8,000 is both the capital of Vermont and the #1 place to live in Washington County. 55% of residents own their homes, and the public schools are highly ranked.
As a prime example of what a small city should be, Montpelier combines modern amenities with small-town feel perfectly. Here’s a short list of what it has to offer: topnotch schools, vibrant culture, amazing shops & restaurants, bookstores, theatres, and a downtown that is both dynamic and historical. As for work and educational opportunities, the city is home to the state government, the New England Culinary Institute, top insurance companies, and the Vermont College of Fine Arts, to name a few.
Are you seeking the best academics options? Top public schools serving Montpelier are Montpelier High School, Main Street School, Union Elementary School, and Berlin Elementary School. Top colleges are Community College of Vermont, New England Culinary Institute, and Vermont College of Fine Arts.
Those in search of a cozy, lively city in Vermont will love living in Montpelier.
Population: 7,700
Median Home Value: $400,000
Known for its friendly community, Shelburne is one of the top places to spend your golden years in The Green Mountain State. 71% of residents are homeowners, and the public schools are stellar.
Situated on the shores of Lake Champlain, Shelburne is a wonderful suburb of the Burlington. Houses are spacious, and there are a variety of activities (from nearby world-class skiing and shopping to artisan events and a farmers market). Also, Burlington is just a 10 minute or so drive away, offering a quick commute or day trip to the most populous city in Vermont. As for drawbacks, the town seriously lacks ethnic diversity – virtually 100% of the population is white.
Are you looking for K–12 educational options? Top private schools serving the Shelburne area include Champlain Valley Union High School, Shelburne Community School, and Willsboro Central School. Considering private schooling? Check out Lake Champlain Waldorf School and Heartworks Preschool.
Whether you’re retiring or starting to grow a family, Shelburne is a safe and welcoming community ideal for making fond memories.
Population: 1,100
Median Home Value: $310,600
As we make our way to Southern Vermont, we stop in the charming small town of Cornwall. Nestled in Addison County, this is the quintessential New England rural village (along with being the #1 place to raise children in the area). 77% of residents own their homes, and public schools are highly rated.
Surrounded by local farms and beautiful nature, Cornwall is as classic as it is peaceful. If you’re looking for the quintessential rural lifestyle, this is it. The schools are great, and medical services and other amenities are more than adequate. The classic houses here are spacious and reasonably priced (as well as highly sought-after). On the downside, public transportation is pretty much non-existent (meaning you need your own vehicle), and there are only a handful of businesses in the local area.
Top public schools serving the Cornwall area include Cornwall School, Middlebury Union High School, and Middlebury Union Middle School.
Want to move to the rural portion of Southern Vermont and raise a family? Cornwall is our top pick.
Population: 8,500
Median Home Value: $247,900
Next, we have another phenomenal town located in Addison County. Considered the overall top place to live in the county, Middlebury is a small town with a big heart. Some 51% of residents are homeowners, and the public schools are highly ranked.
Home to Middlebury College, the shire town of Middlebury offers a refreshing mix of small-town living and college-town atmosphere. Locals are known as being exceptionally friendly and supporting, giving each other a hand when needed. There is also an eclectic mix of people, shops, cafes, restaurants, and more. Quaint, charming, and safe, you’ll feel right at home here!
Are you looking for the best academic options in Middlebury? Top public schools serving the area include Middlebury Union High School, Middlebury Union Middle School, and Mary Hogan School. Top private schools are St. Mary’s School and Bridge School. Middlebury is also home to Middlebury College.
Looking for a great place to attend college or raise kids? Middlebury should definitely be on your radar.
Population: 3,300
Median Home Value: $451,300
We end our tour of Vermont with a bang. As both the #1 place to live overall and the #1 place to raise a family statewide, Norwich certainly does not disappoint. 79% of residents own their homes, and the public schools (as with pretty much every place on our list) are amazing.
Situated in Windsor County on the bank of the Connecticut River, Norwich earns its top spot. The stunning surroundings make for amazing hiking, kayaking, and a variety of other fun outdoor activities. Crime is incredibly low, and the economy is particularly healthy. Dartmouth College (5 minutes away in Hanover, NH) and the local hospital employ many of the town’s residents. There’s also a general grocery store, Dan & Whits Country Store, that is a town institution and the perfect place to meet and greet fellow Norwichians. As for the drawbacks of this quaint town, housing prices here are on the high end, but residents reap the reward of great amenities and much more.
Top public schools serving the Norwich area include Marion W. Cross School, Dothan Brook School, Ottauquechee School, Hartford Memorial Middle School, and Hartford High School.
Whether you’re a young professional or a family person, you can’t go wrong with moving here. Norwich is simply the best place to call home in the state of Vermont.
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A cross-country or interstate move doesn’t have to be a huge pain. With the right help, you can enjoy a smooth, drama-free transition to or from Vermont. It starts with the convenience and affordability of being able to easily select long distance moving services that fit your needs and budget.
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Want affordable, quality moving services? Request a free VT moving quote today!
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