Cost of Living in Washington County, Vermont
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Washington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Washington County ranks #2,418 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 23%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Washington County, Vermont
Washington County leads in income, not rent relief
Washington County has the highest median household income in Vermont at $79,853, edging the national median by $5,100. Yet renters spend 16.4% of income on housing—the state's best rate—demonstrating that strong earnings here translate into genuine affordability rather than inflated rent.
Vermont's affordability leader
Washington County boasts both the state's highest median income and the second-lowest rent-to-income ratio at 16.4%, beaten only by Orleans County. This combination positions it as the most balanced county for households seeking both earning potential and housing comfort.
Highest rents, offset by highest incomes
Washington's $1,094 median rent is the state's highest, and homeowners here face steep $1,470 monthly costs—the priciest in Vermont. However, the median home value of $293,900 and strong incomes justify these costs for buyers seeking investment-grade properties.
Premium housing on premium incomes
Renters allocate $1,094 monthly from a $79,853 income, consuming just 16.4%—the state's best ratio—while homeowners spend $1,470, or roughly 22% of earnings. This leaves Washington County households with the most discretionary income of any Vermont county.
For those who can afford premium prices
Washington County is Vermont's prosperity pocket: if you have strong earning power or remote income, you'll find quality housing stock and the state's best affordability safety net. Move here for mountain scenery, cultural assets, and the financial breathing room that comes with higher incomes.
Cost of Living Advisory: Washington County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Washington County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,094/month in gross rent, with 28.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Washington County is $1,094/month, while owner costs run $1,470/month. Renting saves approximately $376/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $43,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $63,000/year. With a median household income of $79,853, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Washington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Washington County sits 4% less expensive than Orange County ($1,145/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Washington County
Rent Burden
16.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,863
per month
Owner Cost Burden
22.1%
of gross income
The median home in Washington County may be a stretch
Median home value is $293,900. Estimated monthly cost: $2,346 vs. your max of $1,863.
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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