Living in Vermont: Income, Housing, Taxes & Cost of Living (2026)
By Wealthvieu
·
Updated
Table of Contents
Vermont at a Glance
| Metric |
Value |
National Rank |
| Population (2024) |
650,000 |
49th (2nd smallest) |
| Median household income |
$74,014 |
Above average |
| Median home price |
$380,000 |
Above average |
| Cost of living index |
112 |
Above average |
| State income tax |
3.35-8.75% |
Very high |
| Sales tax |
6% (+ 1% local in some places) |
Average |
| Property tax (effective rate) |
1.83% |
High |
Income and Housing
| City/Area |
Median Income |
Median Home Price |
Median Rent (2BR) |
| Burlington |
$63,000 |
$460,000 |
$1,800 |
| South Burlington |
$82,000 |
$470,000 |
$1,750 |
| Montpelier |
$60,000 |
$350,000 |
$1,500 |
| Rutland |
$48,000 |
$240,000 |
$1,100 |
| Stowe (ski resort) |
$75,000 |
$700,000+ |
$2,000+ |
| Brattleboro |
$48,000 |
$280,000 |
$1,200 |
Vermont has a severe housing shortage — vacancy rates are among the lowest in the nation.
Vermont Pros and Cons
| Financial Pros |
Financial Cons |
| Above-average income for size |
8.75% top income tax rate |
| Excellent schools (top 5 nationally) |
High property taxes (1.83%) |
| Remote-work incentive program ($7,500) |
Above-average COL (112) |
| Clean environment, outdoor recreation |
Cold winters, very high heating costs |
| Strong community and safety |
Very limited job market |
Related: Cost of Living by State | State Income Tax Rates | Property Tax by State
