Cost of Living in Franklin County, Vermont
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Franklin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Franklin County ranks #2,189 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 30%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Franklin County, Vermont
Solid incomes, modest housing costs
Franklin County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.7% sits just below Vermont's state average of 17.8%, while its median household income of $79,078 exceeds the national average of $74,755 by 5%. This positions Franklin as an above-average earner with typical Vermont-level housing burdens, offering a balanced cost-of-living profile.
Middle-ground affordability in Vermont
Franklin ranks squarely in Vermont's middle tier with a 17.7% rent-to-income ratio matching the state average and a median income of $79,078 that's solid statewide. Its median home value of $285,500 reflects middle-market pricing, making Franklin a steady choice without extreme affordability or cost pressures.
Higher income offsets slightly higher rents
Franklin's median rent of $1,164 is higher than Addison ($1,201) but lower than Chittenden ($1,590), while its median home value of $285,500 aligns with Lamoille ($285,200) and trails Addison ($333,700). With stronger incomes than most neighbors, Franklin's housing burden feels lighter despite mid-range absolute costs.
Balanced costs and wages throughout
Renters spend $1,164 monthly and homeowners $1,525 against a median household income of $79,078, consuming just 17.7% for housing. This leaves the typical Franklin family with roughly 82% of income available for other expenses—well above the financially recommended threshold.
The Vermont sweet spot for most relocators
Franklin delivers strong incomes relative to Vermont's standard without Chittenden's premium rents or Essex's wage challenges, making it ideal for families seeking balanced affordability. Compare to Addison for slightly better affordability or Chittenden for stronger career prospects before deciding.
Cost of Living Advisory: Franklin County
Affordability Verdict
Franklin County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,164/month representing approximately 17.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 30.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Franklin County is $1,164/month, while owner costs run $1,525/month. Renting saves approximately $361/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $46,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $65,357/year. With a median household income of $79,078, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Franklin County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Franklin County sits 6% more expensive than Washington County ($1,094/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Franklin County
Rent Burden
17.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,845
per month
Owner Cost Burden
23.1%
of gross income
The median home in Franklin County may be a stretch
Median home value is $285,500. Estimated monthly cost: $2,279 vs. your max of $1,845.
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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