Cheapest Places to Live in Vermont

Access hyperlocal data to help you make a confident and informed decision.

Vermont, known for its picturesque landscapes, charming small towns, and rich cultural heritage, offers a peaceful and affordable living environment. Landmarks such as the Ben & Jerry's Factory, Shelburne Museum, and Stowe Mountain Resort highlight the state's attractions. The state's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing. Vermont's tax structure includes relatively high income and property taxes, which can impact the overall affordability for residents. Despite recent inflation and rising food costs, Vermont remains one of the more affordable states in the New England region, especially in its smaller towns and rural areas. The combination of a diverse economy and manageable living costs makes Vermont an attractive place for those seeking affordability and quality of life.

Affordable living in Vermont can often be found in smaller towns and suburban areas where housing costs and everyday expenses are lower. These regions provide a more manageable cost of living, which is essential for maintaining financial stability. Affordability is a key factor in livability, as it allows residents to enjoy a comfortable standard of living without undue financial strain. Factors contributing to the cheapest places to live in Vermont include lower housing demand in less populated areas, supportive local economic policies, and efficient public services. Using AI-assisted city-level cost of living estimates, supported by U.S. Census housing data and regional economic modeling, helps identify these affordable regions and gives potential residents a practical way to compare affordability from one city to the next. In a state known for its natural beauty and community spirit, finding affordable living options enhances the overall living experience.

St. Johnsbury Population: 6,023 10% cheaper than Vermont average

Med. Home Value: $254,950 Med. Rent: $1,159 Med. Household Inc.: $60,964

With a cost of living index that is 10% cheaper than the state average, St. Johnsbury is the cheapest place to live in Vermont. This area offers residents a remarkable blend of relatively low housing costs, budget-friendly grocery prices, affordable utilities, and economical health care services, making it an attractive destination for those seeking to stretch their dollars further. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life, St. Johnsbury provides an inviting and cost-effective environment to call home.

Barre Population: 8,816 9% cheaper than Vermont average

Med. Home Value: $262,442 Med. Rent: $1,193 Med. Household Inc.: $64,472

The second most affordable city in Vermont is Barre and stands out for its cost-effective lifestyle. With an overall cost of living that is 9% cheaper than the Vermont average, overall goods and services, housing, utilities, transportation and health care costs fall within a reasonable range. Median household income levels are steady and come in at , which helps to increase the purchasing power of the local residents.

Rutland Population: 15,668 9% cheaper than Vermont average

Med. Home Value: $265,975 Med. Rent: $1,223 Med. Household Inc.: $70,766

Rutland lands in the #3 spot for the cheapest cities to live in Vermont, with a cost of living that is 9% cheaper than the state average. With home prices averaging and rental rates coming in around , it helps that household income levels average about , which assists with paying the mortgage or your monthly rent. Its robust public school system and accessible health care further enhance its appeal, making it a great place to settle down. The strong community spirit and ample recreational opportunities add to its charm.

Bennington Population: 8,880 5% cheaper than Vermont average

Med. Home Value: $292,589 Med. Rent: $1,295 Med. Household Inc.: $69,346

The cost of everyday grocery items, goods & services and of course housing, can have a significant impact on the overall cost of living in any area. Bennington offers a picturesque and affordable living environment, with a cost of living that is 5% cheaper than the state average. Everyday items like ground beef , eggs , coffee and pizza are all fairly reasonable compared to most other cities, which helps reduce those grocery bills. Home prices are also fairly affordable (compared to the state average), coming in at around .

St. Albans Population: 6,995 4% cheaper than Vermont average

Med. Home Value: $314,587 Med. Rent: $1,600 Med. Household Inc.: $75,731

For those wanting to live well on a budget, St. Albans is ideal, with a cost of living that is 4% cheaper than the state average. Reasonable housing prices (compared to the Vermont average) of and rental prices of are paired with economical goods and services and a range of free or low-cost recreational activities. The city's proactive economic development initiatives also ensure a steady stream of job opportunities, making it a smart choice for those prioritizing financial ease.

Brattleboro Population: 6,631 1% cheaper than Vermont average

Med. Home Value: $332,243 Med. Rent: $1,323 Med. Household Inc.: $54,718

Brattleboro comes in at #6 on our list of the cheapest cities in Vermont and is a haven for those seeking affordability without sacrificing convenience. The city is known for its discount shopping centers and budget-friendly dining options and has a cost of living that is 1% cheaper than Vermont. The city's local markets provide fresh produce and other groceries at reduced prices, while parks and community centers offer free entertainment and leisure. This city is perfect for enjoying a high quality of life at a low cost.

Winooski Population: 7,608 4% more expensive than Vermont average

Med. Home Value: $419,015 Med. Rent: $1,856 Med. Household Inc.: $82,702

With its cost-effective lifestyle, Winooski is an attractive destination for those looking to live affordably. The city boasts suitable housing costs, affordable healthcare, and a variety of budget-friendly dining options. The community is welcoming and vibrant, providing residents with a rich social life at a fraction of the cost. Median income levels come in at , which provides financial stability, purchasing power and increases the quality of life in the city.

Montpelier Population: 7,614 4% more expensive than Vermont average

Med. Home Value: $454,495 Med. Rent: $1,574 Med. Household Inc.: $98,397

A lower cost of living allows individuals to manage their expenses more effectively, reducing the risk of financial stress and debt. When essential costs such as housing, food, transportation, and healthcare are more affordable, people can achieve greater financial stability and resilience. Montpelier fits that mold and has a cost of living that is 4% more expensive than Vermont.

Middlebury Population: 7,181 10% more expensive than Vermont average

Med. Home Value: $550,656 Med. Rent: $1,529 Med. Household Inc.: $90,606

Lower living costs can lead to a higher quality of life by making it easier for people to afford comfortable housing, nutritious food, and access to healthcare. It can also provide opportunities for better education, recreational activities, and community engagement, contributing to overall well-being. Middlebury is one of the most affordable cities in Vermont, and has a cost of living that is 10% more expensive than the state average.

Essex Junction Population: 11,172 12% more expensive than Vermont average

Med. Home Value: $538,498 Med. Rent: $1,958 Med. Household Inc.: $112,965

With a cost of living that is 12% more expensive than Vermont, Essex Junction comes in at #10 on our list of the cheapest places to live in Vermont. Financial stress is a significant factor affecting mental and physical health. By lowering the cost of living, individuals can experience reduced anxiety related to meeting monthly expenses, thereby improving overall health and well-being. The ability to afford basic necessities without constant worry contributes to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Full list of the cheapest places in Vermont

Rank	Location	Population	COL Index	Med. Home Value	Med. Household Inc.
1	St. Johnsbury	6,023	97	$254,950	$60,964
2	Barre	8,816	98	$262,442	$64,472
3	Rutland	15,668	98	$265,975	$70,766
4	Bennington	8,880	103	$292,589	$69,346
5	St. Albans	6,995	104	$314,587	$75,731
6	Brattleboro	6,631	107	$332,243	$54,718
7	Winooski	7,608	112	$419,015	$82,702
8	Montpelier	7,614	113	$454,495	$98,397
9	Middlebury	7,181	119	$550,656	$90,606
10	Essex Junction	11,172	121	$538,498	$112,965
11	Burlington	44,321	121	$549,675	$81,342
12	South Burlington	20,010	123	$560,274	$115,520
13	Shelburne	6,171	130	$678,469	$125,320

Methodology

To formulate the list of the cheapest places to live in Vermont, a city-level cost of living model was used with a national average baseline of 100. This framework is designed to provide a practical comparison of how far your dollar may go across different urban areas. Housing estimates incorporate the latest available U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other values are generated using AI-assisted economic models based on expected everyday expenses, regional pricing trends, climate, transportation patterns, and local economic conditions. The overall index is weighted across key spending categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%).

Map of Cost of Living by State

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The map above is a great way to help you discover the most affordable states across the U.S. By highlighting states with the lowest cost of living, this map provides an in-depth look at where you can get the most value for your money. By visually representing this data, the map allows users to easily compare different regions and make informed decisions about potential relocations or investments. Additionally, it provides valuable insights into the economic conditions and lifestyle factors that influence these cost of living statistics. Whether you're planning a move, considering a new job, or simply curious about the economic landscape, this map is a useful resource for understanding and navigating the financial implications of living in different states.