Vermont Cost of Living
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Relocating to Vermont means embracing a landscape of rolling hills, tight-knit communities and changing seasons. For many, the prospect of Vermont’s natural beauty and slower pace of life is appealing, but it’s important to know how everyday expenses stack up before making a move.
To determine the cost of living in Vermont, our team reviewed data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis to understand average spending. We also used recent sources to gather housing, food, transportation, health care and utility costs for a full picture of everyday expenses.
People in Vermont spend $58,958 each year on goods and services, on average.
Jump to insightThe median rent in Vermont is $1,826, versus the national median rent of $1,639.
Jump to insightResidents in Vermont spend $249.38 weekly on food at home.
Jump to insightAs of August 2025, the average price per gallon of regular gas is $3.09 in Vermont.
Jump to insightRecent data shows that employees in Vermont pay $2,145 annually for employee-sponsored health insurance coverage.
Jump to insightThe average cost of living in Vermont
According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the average annual per-person spending in Vermont was $58,958 in 2023. This figure reflects the value of what residents consume each year across housing, health care, food, gas and energy, and other goods and services.
Here’s a breakdown of the largest spending categories in Vermont:
| Category | Annual per-capita cost in Vermont |
|---|---|
| Housing and utilities | $10,195 |
| Health care | $10,438 |
| Food and beverages for off-premises consumption | $5,107 |
| Gasoline and other energy goods | $1,654 |
| All other personal consumption expenditures | $31,564 |
| Total cost | $58,958 |
Housing costs in Vermont
Housing is often the most significant monthly expense, and in Vermont, it’s no exception. The average rent in Vermont is $1,826, which is higher than the national average of $1,639. Rent prices in Vermont will vary depending on location, with popular towns and ski areas tending to cost more. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey, average monthly rents in Vermont are:
- One-bedroom rent: $1,026
- Two-bedroom rent: $1,337
- Three-bedroom rent: $1,484
- Four-bedroom rent: $1,426
If you’re thinking about buying, the median home price in Vermont is $430,800, which is slightly less than the U.S. median home price of $446,638.
Property taxes are a notable factor in Vermont. The state ranks No. 5 for highest effective property tax rates in the nation, with residents paying 1.42%.
» COMPARE: Best moving companies in Vermont
Food costs in Vermont
How much you spend on food in Vermont depends on your shopping habits and where you choose to dine. Recent U.S. Census data shows that the average Vermont resident spends $249.38 per week on groceries, compared with the national average of $270.21.
Grocery bills in Vermont can change based on whether you shop at local farmers markets, big chain stores or smaller markets. Dining out in cities like Burlington or resort areas tends to be pricier, while those living in rural communities may have access to more affordable local produce and fewer restaurant options. Meal prep and buying in bulk can help control costs for families.
Transportation costs in Vermont
Transportation expenses in Vermont include fuel and insurance. Drivers pay an average of $3.09 per gallon of regular gas, which is more than the national average of $3.13.
Car insurance premiums in Vermont average $854.05, compared with $1,258 nationally. Commuting patterns and winter conditions can also influence what families pay to get around.
Health care costs in Vermont
In Vermont, the average annual employee contribution for employer-sponsored health insurance is $2,145, with employers covering the remaining $6,139 of the $8,284 total premium.
For comparison, the national average employee contribution is $1,640 out of a total premium of $8,182.
Utility costs in Vermont
Utility bills in Vermont can take a sizable portion of your budget, especially during the colder months. The average monthly electric bill is $117.11, compared with the U.S. average of $136.84. Natural gas costs $15.49 per thousand cubic feet in Vermont, compared with the national average of $12.92.
FAQ
Does Vermont have a high cost of living?
Yes, Vermont has a higher cost of living than the national average. Rent in particular is above what most Americans pay. Health care is also more expensive, so families may find that their paychecks do not stretch as far as in other states.
Is Vermont a good place to live?
Yes, Vermont is a good place to live if you value a close-knit community, scenic landscapes and a slower pace of life. While the cost of living is higher, many newcomers appreciate the quality of life and the sense of safety that Vermont offers. The state continues to attract new residents looking for a fresh start in a rural or small-town setting.
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Is Vermont good for renters?
No, Vermont is not good for renters. Rent is noticeably more expensive than in most states, and the availability of rental properties is limited. Tenant protections also aren’t as strong as in some other regions.
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- Apartments.com, “Rent Trends.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- Redfin, “Redfin Data Center.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- Tax Foundation, “Where Do People Pay the Most in Property Taxes?” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- United States Census Bureau, “Week 63 Household Pulse Survey: October 18 - October 30.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- AAA Gas Prices, “State Gas Price Averages.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners, “2021/2022 Auto Insurance Database Report.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- KFF, “Average Annual Single Premium per Enrolled Employee For Employer-Based Health Insurance.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- U.S. Energy Information Administration, “2023 Average Monthly Bill- Residential.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
