Looking for the best places to live in Vermont? You're not alone. More buyers are discovering what Vermonters have known for generations: the Green Mountain State offers a rare mix of small-town community, four-season outdoor access, and a pace of life that's hard to find elsewhere. Remote work has opened the door for even more people to make the move, and the question we hear most often at Flex Realty is simple: which town is right for me?
As local agents who help buyers and sellers across Vermont every day, from our home base in Colchester, we've put together this updated guide to the cities and towns we recommend most, and who each one suits best. (Looking for picks organized by life stage? Our original guide to the best places to live in Vermont for every lifestyle breaks it down for families, young professionals, and retirees.)
How We Picked the Best Towns in Vermont to Live
There's no single "best" town, only the best fit for your priorities. To build this list of the best towns in Vermont to live, we weighed home prices and value, school quality, commute times and access to jobs, everyday amenities like dining and healthcare, and proximity to the outdoor recreation that draws so many people here in the first place. Just as important, we leaned on what our agents see firsthand: where buyers are searching, where homes are moving, and where clients tell us they're happiest after closing.
Best Cities to Live in Vermont
Vermont's "cities" are small by national standards, which is exactly their appeal. These are the best cities to live in Vermont if you want walkability, culture, and convenience without big-city stress.
Burlington
Vermont's largest city sits right on the shores of Lake Champlain, with sunsets over the Adirondacks to prove it. Burlington combines a lively downtown, anchored by the Church Street Marketplace, with the energy of the University of Vermont, a strong healthcare and tech job base, and miles of waterfront bike path. It's a great match for young professionals and families who want urban amenities with a small-town feel. Browse Burlington homes for sale.
South Burlington
Just next door, South Burlington offers a more suburban lifestyle with quick access to everything Burlington has to offer. Its well-regarded schools, established neighborhoods, and proximity to Burlington International Airport and major retail make it one of the most popular choices for families and frequent travelers alike.
Winooski
Once a mill town, Winooski has become one of the most talked-about communities in Chittenden County. Its compact, walkable downtown circles a roundabout packed with restaurants and cafés, and it's a short bike ride to Burlington. For first-time buyers looking for a more accessible entry point near the state's largest job market, Winooski is well worth a look.
Montpelier
The smallest state capital in the country, Montpelier punches well above its size. Expect independent shops, a thriving local food scene, a strong arts community, and stable employment tied to state government. Surrounded by hills and farmland, it's ideal for buyers who want character and community without giving up convenience.
Best Small Towns in Vermont to Live
If you'd rather trade city blocks for village greens, these are among the best places in Vermont to live for a quieter, close-knit lifestyle.
Colchester
Home to Flex Realty's headquarters, Colchester offers a little bit of everything: lakefront access on Malletts Bay, family-friendly neighborhoods, and an easy commute to Burlington. It's a smart choice for buyers who want space and water views while staying close to the region's jobs. Explore Colchester homes for sale.
Shelburne and Charlotte
South of Burlington along the lake, Shelburne blends historic charm with excellent schools and cultural landmarks like Shelburne Museum and Shelburne Farms. Neighboring Charlotte offers a more rural setting with rolling farmland and sweeping lake views. Both are favorites for families and buyers seeking room to breathe. See Charlotte homes for sale.
Essex Junction and Williston
These growing communities deliver strong value for families: good schools, parks, convenient shopping, and quick access to I-89. Essex Junction has a walkable village center, while Williston offers newer neighborhoods and plenty of everyday amenities. Browse Essex Junction homes for sale.
Stowe
World-famous for skiing at Mount Mansfield, Stowe is a true four-season destination with hiking, biking, and a postcard-perfect village. It attracts full-time residents and second-home buyers alike who want resort-town living year-round.
Middlebury and Brattleboro
For a classic Vermont college town, Middlebury offers culture, historic architecture, and easy access to the Green Mountains. In southern Vermont, Brattleboro is known for its creative spirit, music scene, and walkable downtown, plus a shorter drive to Massachusetts and New York. Explore Brattleboro homes for sale.e
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best place to live in Vermont for families?
South Burlington, Shelburne, Essex Junction, and Williston are consistently popular with families thanks to strong schools, safe neighborhoods, and convenient access to Burlington's jobs and amenities.
What is the most affordable city in Vermont?
Affordability shifts with the market, but buyers often find more value in communities like Winooski, Essex Junction, and parts of southern and central Vermont. A Flex Realty agent can pull current numbers for the towns you're considering.
Is Vermont a good place to live year-round?
Absolutely, as long as you embrace the seasons. Vermonters enjoy skiing and snowshoeing in winter, lakes and hiking in summer, and world-class foliage in fall. Towns like Burlington and Stowe stay lively all year.
Find Your Place in Vermont with Flex Realty
The best place to live in Vermont is the one that fits your life, and our local agents are here to help you find it. Start your home search, explore homes across Chittenden County, or contact our team to talk through your move. Thinking about selling first? Get a free home valuation to see what your current home is worth.
