Cost of Living in Caledonia County, Vermont
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Caledonia County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Caledonia County ranks #2,394 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Caledonia County, Vermont
Vermont's most affordable county for renters
Caledonia County boasts a rent-to-income ratio of just 16.4%, beating Vermont's state average of 17.8% and nearly matching national affordability standards. Though median household income of $66,075 lags both state and national figures, Caledonia's exceptionally low rents of $904 monthly provide genuine relief for budget-stretched households.
Cheapest rents in Vermont by far
Caledonia's median gross rent of $904 is the lowest statewide, with a median home value of $215,900 that also ranks among Vermont's most affordable. The 16.4% rent-to-income ratio places Caledonia among the state's best deals, especially for renters unable to purchase.
Unbeatable rents in Northeast Kingdom
Caledonia's $904 median rent dramatically undercuts neighboring Essex ($915) and substantially beats Franklin ($1,164) and Addison ($1,201) upstate. Home prices of $215,900 are similarly rock-bottom for the region, positioning Caledonia as Vermont's most wallet-friendly corner.
Lowest costs, lowest incomes trade-off
Caledonia's median rent of $904 and owner costs of $1,123 are the cheapest in Vermont, but median household income of $66,075 is also the lowest statewide. At 16.4%, housing still claims less than the safe 30% of income, making this county highly affordable despite modest wages.
Best choice if cost is your priority
Caledonia is Vermont's clear winner for absolute affordability, offering the lowest rents and home prices statewide. If you're relocating with limited income or early-stage career prospects, Caledonia maximizes what you can afford; if you need higher wages, Chittenden or Addison offer better job markets.
Cost of Living Advisory: Caledonia County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Caledonia County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $904/month in gross rent, with 29.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Caledonia County is $904/month, while owner costs run $1,123/month. Renting saves approximately $219/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $48,129/year. With a median household income of $66,075, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Caledonia County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Caledonia County sits 6% less expensive than Rutland County ($965/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Caledonia County
Rent Burden
16.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,542
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.4%
of gross income
The median home in Caledonia County may be a stretch
Median home value is $215,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,724 vs. your max of $1,542.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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