Cost of Living in Essex County, Vermont
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Essex County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Essex County, Vermont
Low income, manageable housing burden
Essex County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.6% slightly exceeds Vermont's state average of 17.8%, but its median household income of $58,985 is the lowest statewide—20% below the national median. This creates a paradox where renters face a heavier burden despite lower absolute rents, reflecting the county's limited wage opportunities.
Vermont's lowest-income county
Essex County confronts dual challenges: the state's lowest median household income at $58,985 combined with a 18.6% rent-to-income ratio that exceeds the state average. Its median home value of $167,500 is Vermont's cheapest, but limited local income-earning potential makes housing affordability fragile for residents.
Cheapest homes, but tight income situation
Essex's median rent of $915 is the second-lowest in Vermont after Caledonia ($904), and its $167,500 median home value is by far the state's lowest. However, with median income of $58,985—substantially below all neighboring counties—Essex residents are the most income-constrained in the region.
Low costs meet low paychecks
Renters pay just $915 monthly and homeowners $938, among Vermont's cheapest, but against a median income of $58,985, these costs consume 18.6% of household budgets. While technically manageable, Essex's limited wage-earning opportunities mean housing stability depends heavily on employment stability or outside income sources.
Only choose Essex if you have alternative income
Essex offers rock-bottom housing costs and is Vermont's last affordable frontier, but chronic low local incomes make it risky for job-seekers relocating without remote work or savings. If you're retiring, working remotely, or have guaranteed alternative income, Essex's cheap homes and rents are unbeatable; otherwise, consider Caledonia's better affordability balance.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Essex County
Rent Burden
18.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,376
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Essex County
Median home value is $167,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,337 vs. your max of $1,376.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.