Cost of Living in Orleans County, Vermont
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Orleans County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Orleans County ranks #2,288 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 27%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Orleans County, Vermont
Orleans County beats the national affordability test
Renters in Orleans County spend just 16.2% of income on housing, outperforming both the national median and Vermont's 17.8% state average. This rural county's rent-to-income ratio is among the lowest in the state, offering genuine relief for budget-conscious households.
Most affordable rents in Vermont
Orleans County has the lowest median rent in the state at $897 monthly, significantly undercutting the Vermont average of $1,117. This advantage is paired with Vermont's best rent-to-income ratio, making it a standout choice for renters seeking affordability.
Clear rental advantage over rural peers
Orleans County's $897 monthly rent is $220 cheaper than Orange County and $68 below Rutland County, the state's other rural alternatives. Even when comparing to Washington County—the priciest option—Orleans saves renters $197 per month, or nearly $2,400 annually.
Rent and income work in your favor
With a median household income of $66,426 and median rent of $897, Orleans households allocate just 16.2% to rent—well below the strain threshold. Homeowners pay $1,140 monthly, which adds up to roughly 20% of income, still manageable for owner-occupants.
The affordability champion for Vermont movers
Orleans County is the place to move if cost of living is your primary concern; you'll find Vermont's cheapest rents without sacrificing community or outdoor recreation. It's especially ideal for remote workers or retirees whose income isn't tied to local job markets.
Cost of Living Advisory: Orleans County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Orleans County is affordable. The median rent is $897/month against a median household income of $66,426, putting rent at 16.2% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $897/month rent versus $1,140/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $243/month cheaper — a 21% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $35,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $48,857/year. With a median household income of $66,426, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Orleans County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Orleans County sits 7% less expensive than Rutland County ($965/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Orleans County
Rent Burden
16.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,550
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.6%
of gross income
The median home in Orleans County may be a stretch
Median home value is $213,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,703 vs. your max of $1,550.
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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