Vermont, known as the "Green Mountain State", is a scenic but expensive New England state with high taxes and utilities. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Green Mountain State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Vermont for a single person earning the median income of $63,400/year:
Each category shows how Vermont compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Vermont.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Vermont.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Vermont:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Vermont, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Vermont is $355,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,150/month. With a housing cost index of 110, Vermont housing is 10% more expensive than the national average.
Housing costs in Vermont are above average but manageable for households earning the median income. The 30% rule (spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing) is achievable in most areas.
Vermont has a state income tax rate of 8.75%. On the median household income of $63,400, you will pay approximately $5,548/year in state income tax ($462/month). This is one of the higher rates nationally and significantly impacts disposable income.
The average single person in Vermont spends approximately $440/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $1,100-$1,320/month. The food cost index of 104 means groceries in Vermont are 4% above the national average.
Gas prices in Vermont average $3.45/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $2,070/year in fuel costs.
Vermont healthcare costs are 13% above the national average (index: 113). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Vermont is approximately $6,780 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Vermont averages $1,100/month ($13,200/year). This is a substantial but manageable expense for dual-income households. Many families in Vermont find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Vermont is a higher-cost state, but the higher expenses often come with higher incomes, better infrastructure, and more job opportunities. The median household income of $63,400 helps offset the 10% premium on living costs.
See all Vermont financial calculators:
Vermont (VT) has a cost of living index of 110, meaning it is 10% more expensive than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 110. The median rent is $1,150/month and the median home price is $355,000. Vermont ranks #39 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Vermont is approximately $82,420/year ($6,868/month). For a family of four, aim for $139,480/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($440/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Vermont is $63,400.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Vermont is approximately $1,150/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,553/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Burlington, South Burlington, Rutland are the most popular metro areas. Housing costs in Vermont are above average — budget carefully.
Vermont is a more expensive state (COL index 110), but offers strong job markets and high median incomes ($63,400). Popular areas include Burlington, South Burlington, Rutland.
The most affordable areas in Vermont are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Vermont, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Burlington metro) and more affordable areas. Barre and Montpelier tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Vermont for a single person is approximately $440 ($1,100 for a family of four). Vermont food costs are 4% above the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Vermont is approximately $155. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $341/month. Vermont utilities are 17% above the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Vermont has a state income tax rate of 8.75%. On the median household income of $63,400, that is approximately $5,548/year in state income tax. This is among the highest in the nation.