Settled among Vermont’s panoramic, green, lush landscapes lie hidden jewels of affordability, offering a tranquil escape without breaking the bank.
In a state noted for its natural beauty and vibrant communities, discovering the cheapest places to dwell unveils a tapestry of cool, retro-vibed towns, serene havens, family-friendly hamlets, and student-studded cities.
With an average home price majorly lower than the national average, Vermont presents a tempting option for those pursuing an affordable lifestyle that maintains its hold on the quality of life.
From the charming streets of Rutland to the laid-back atmosphere of Bennington, each corner of this stunning state beckons with promise, inviting residents and visitors to embrace simplicity and savor the richness of life that moves at a Vermont pace (and who doesn’t love maple syrup!).
Relax in days set down gracefully among green valleys, elevated mountains, sweet spots and nightspots, festivals, and sporting events.
This is Vermont, and you can make it a new home for you and your loved ones!
Contents
- Discover 10 of the Cheapest Cities in Vermont That are Also Fun, Livable, and Unique
- Vermont Safety Overview
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Vermont gets a winter, but what are the other three seasons like?
- How do people in Vermont make a living? What are the major industries?
- Vermont has a reputation for being artsy, outdoorsy, and unique, but are any movies shot here or using the state as a backdrop?
- Is agriculture important to Vermont?
- What entertainment events and other socializing options does Vermont offer locals and guests?
Discover 10 of the Cheapest Cities in Vermont That are Also Fun, Livable, and Unique
These are just a few of the affordable places and spaces, cities, and towns that offer unique charm and attractions for residents and visitors to dive deep into as you and your loved ones consider settling down in Vermont.
1. Newport
It is beloved for its authentic charm and flawless location on the edge and shore of Lake Memphremagog.
One of Vermont’s gems, Newport, has its small-town energy interwoven with an inviting historic downtown and historical attractions, from shopping to eateries, that engender a sense of place and community.
Beyond culture and entertainment, the town is well-known for hosting various local sports, like the annual triathlon run by the lake, water sports, and hiking in nearby state parks.
2. Rutland
Rutland has earned a reputation as one of Vermont’s most affordable cities, with rents below the national average.
Rutland relishes low housing costs and a lively arts scene in the heart of the Green Mountains.
Speaking of, try hitting the Norman Rockwell Museum.
Outdoor recreation enthusiasts will enjoy the region’s ski resorts.
Known for the landmark Paramount Theatre, Rutland has a diverse business profile, offering a range of job opportunities.
3. Bennington
Bennington College brings the town college knowledge, smart town energy, and culture, including art galleries, cafés, and boutiques.
Discover this town’s scenic downtown and affordable housing opportunities.
The city is the home base for the historic Bennington Battle Monument, the tallest human-made building in Vermont; it marks the Battle of Bennington, a key win for American forces during the American Revolution.
4. Hardwick
Set among forests, hills, and lakes, Hardwick is an excellent area for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
The town delivers an affordable cost of living thanks to a median rent below the national average.
Plus, locals and visitors enjoy community come-together, such as festivals, the annual Hardwick Fair, farmers’ markets, and a vibrant food scene, which can include a visit to the Vermont Food Venture Center.
Fans of Abe? Note the Lincoln Family Home, Hildene.
5. Barre
Known as the “Granite Center of the World,” Barre offers affordable living with a rock-solid sense of community.
Enjoy outdoor workouts like hiking in the nearby Groton State Forest and exploring historic granite quarries in this small city in the northern part of Vermont.
Barre comprises approximately 8,488 individuals, give or take a few.
Located in Washington County, the town offers residents a close, comfortable, suburban feel, and most locals rent their dwellings.
Many families of all ages and sizes, as well as young professionals, live in Barre.
6. Brattleboro
Cradled along the Connecticut River, Brattleboro presents an affordable lifestyle, a relaxed environment, and reasonable housing.
Locals and guests can discover charms from outdoor recreational activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking to art galleries, restaurants, and shopping.
The city has enjoyed population growth and a reputation as one of the leading small towns in America.
Topography enthusiasts will be pleased to know the town is celebrated for being home to Mount Wantastiquet.
7. Springfield
Springfield is characterized by affordable housing and a strong sense of community.
Locals and visitors can discover the town’s historical architecture, visit the Eureka Schoolhouse Museum, or see the Connecticut River.
Plus, everyone will ask if you live in Springfield, and if so, have you met the Simpsons?
How you answer is up to you!
8. St. Albans
Located in northern Vermont, this city combines affordable living with easy access to outdoor recreation, such as hiking, fishing, and skiing!
The town hosts various festivals, including the Vermont Maple Festival.
And not to brag, but the Vermont Maple Festival is a big deal among people, who rightfully appreciate all things made with the ambrosial delight that is the only one that accepts no substitutions: Vermont maple syrup.
9. Swanton
Discover a city that offers people an experience that combines a suburban and rural vibe, and most folks own their houses.
With its affordable housing options and close-knit community, Swanton is ideal for families, single professionals, and retirees.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge or enjoy boating and fishing on Lake Champlain.
Sounds good? You’ll find the city located in Vermont’s northwest section.
10. Fair Haven
Tucked away in western Vermont, Fair Haven offers affordable living in a sweet, scenic location.
Locals can explore the town’s historic district, visit local farms, or ramble along the Castleton River.
Whether you want local art energy, outdoor activities, or a place to plant and grow your family, this place that combines relative peace, quiet, serenity, water, and land is a fantastic candidate.
The rental market offers affordable rental opportunities at or slightly less than the going national market rate.
Vermont Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Vermont Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
Vermont gets a winter, but what are the other three seasons like?
Evangelists for the Green Mountain State will explain that it’s always the right reason and weather to come on over.
For others, the most temperate weather is between May-June and September-October by the standards of much of the lower 48.
Like the Vermont City Marathon, the spring and summer seasons bring gentle crowds of visitors.
Fall is busy–and crowded; chock-full-of-visitors come to peep at the leaves.
The summer brings lengthening days, bright skies, and people wearing Lycra.
This is the season to hike the state’s hills and greenery and attend festivals and farmers’ markets.
Winters are — everything that you’ve been led to believe.
You’ll find it here; from freezing, you’ll see fluffy snow, followed by series and some of the East Coast’s best skiing, ice skating, and cross-country skiing.
How do people in Vermont make a living? What are the major industries?
It depends upon your personal skill set, but hot employment industries in Vermont include tourism, manufacturing, and agriculture.
When we think of Vermont, we picture iconic scenes of rolling hills.
However, not surprisingly, manufacturing provides stable jobs, including metal products/precision instruments, defense, plastics, and aerospace, while Burlington’s Global Foundries is the biggest private employer in the state.
Natural resources are another route to industry, and Vermonters utilize everything from maple syrup to unique wood goods and, of course, the agriculture/dairy industry.
Homegrown cottage industries range from micro to Burton Snowboards, Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, King Arthur Flour Company, and the legendary and cherished Vermont Teddy Bear Company.
Vermont has a reputation for being artsy, outdoorsy, and unique, but are any movies shot here or using the state as a backdrop?
Absolutely.
With its rolling, verdant hills, lush landscape, quaint architecture, and ruggedly individualistic locals, this quaint New England region is ready for its close-up.
Films that have been shot here include (but are not limited to!):
- White Christmas
- The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2
- Wolf
- Man with a Plan
- State and Main
- Super Troopers & Super Troopers 2
- Dead Poets Society
- Ten Thousand Saints
- Bless the Child
- We Have Always Lived in the Castle
- Johnny Tsunami
- Hope Springs
- Dark Victory
- Vermont is For Lovers
Is agriculture important to Vermont?
It is vital, indeed.
The Green Mountain State is home to over 500 dairy farms situated on over 900,000 acres.
There are 124,000 cows in Vermont, give or take one or two, and each one is outstanding in his or her field!
Come and discover festivals, parties, fiestas, celebrations, and parades.
Some examples and samples of gaiety include the following:
- Vermont Maple Festival in St. Albans, VT, April 26-28, 2024
- Independence Day Celebration in Burlington, VT, July 3, 2024
- Vermont Blueberry Festival in Wilmington, VT, 2024 Dates TBA
- Festival of Fools in Burlington, VT, August 2-4, 2024
- Garlic Town USA in Bennington, VT, August 31, 2024
