Cost of Living in Chittenden County, Vermont
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Chittenden County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Chittenden County ranks #2,765 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 12%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Chittenden County, Vermont
Premium housing in Vermont's job hub
Chittenden County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.2% exceeds both Vermont's 17.8% state average and the national benchmark, reflecting its status as the state's economic engine. With a median household income of $94,310—26% above the national average—Chittenden residents earn significantly more but also face Vermont's steepest housing costs at $1,590 monthly rent.
Vermont's most expensive housing market
Chittenden ranks as Vermont's least affordable county, with median home values of $404,500 towering above all peers and a median rent of $1,590 that's 43% above the state average. Despite having the state's strongest median income, Chittenden's 20.2% rent-to-income ratio is the highest statewide, signaling tight housing markets around Burlington.
Dramatically pricier than all surrounding counties
Chittenden's median rent of $1,590 vastly exceeds all neighbors—32% higher than Franklin ($1,164), 31% higher than Grand Isle ($1,436), and nearly double Caledonia's $904. Home values of $404,500 similarly tower over the region, reflecting Burlington's competitive real estate market and strong regional economy.
High incomes offset high housing costs
Renters pay $1,590 monthly and homeowners $1,839, consuming 20.2% of a median $94,310 household income—the highest burden in Vermont but still manageable. Chittenden's premium rents and home prices are balanced by the state's strongest paychecks, creating a trade-off between cost and economic opportunity.
Pay more to earn more in Burlington area
Chittenden offers Vermont's most robust job market and highest incomes, making it ideal if career growth justifies premium housing costs. If you're relocating for opportunity and can absorb higher rents, Chittenden is unmatched; if affordability is paramount, consider lower-cost neighbors like Franklin or Lamoille with shorter commutes to Burlington jobs.
Cost of Living Advisory: Chittenden County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Chittenden County is affordable. The median rent is $1,590/month against a median household income of $94,310, putting rent at 20.2% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Chittenden County pay $1,590/month on average, compared to $1,839/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 14%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $63,600/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $78,814/year. With a median household income of $94,310, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Chittenden County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Grand Isle County where rent averages $1,436/month, Chittenden County is approximately 11% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Chittenden County
Rent Burden
20.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,201
per month
Owner Cost Burden
23.4%
of gross income
The median home in Chittenden County may be a stretch
Median home value is $404,500. Estimated monthly cost: $3,229 vs. your max of $2,201.
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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