Cost of Living in Windsor County, Vermont
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Windsor County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Windsor County ranks #2,332 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 26%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Windsor County, Vermont
Windsor County just below national comfort zone
Windsor County renters spend 17.4% of income on housing, running slightly below the national median and Vermont's 17.8% state average. With a median household income of $75,247—marginally above the national figure of $74,755—residents enjoy near-national-average financial stability.
Solid middle ground in Vermont
Windsor County's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio places it in the healthy middle tier of Vermont counties, neither strained nor exceptionally affordable. It ranks as one of the more balanced options for renters seeking reliability without dramatic cost-of-living surprises.
Competitive pricing in central Vermont
Windsor's $1,089 median rent is $28 above state average and $192 more expensive than Orleans County's bargain rents. However, homeowners pay $1,285 monthly—lower than Washington County's $1,470 but higher than Orleans County's $1,140, reflecting its position as a central-Vermont hub.
Well-balanced housing-to-income ratio
Renters allocate $1,089 monthly from a $75,247 income, while homeowners carry $1,285 in costs, representing roughly 17–20% of household earnings. This leaves Windsor County households with solid discretionary income and financial resilience.
A reliable choice for Vermont newcomers
Windsor County offers genuine New England character and balanced affordability; it's ideal for those seeking Vermont's appeal without the price tags of Washington County or the affordability stretch of Windham. Consider it if you want walkable town centers, good schools, and genuine financial breathing room.
Cost of Living Advisory: Windsor County
Affordability Verdict
Windsor County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,089/month representing approximately 17.4% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Windsor County is $1,089/month, while owner costs run $1,285/month. Renting saves approximately $196/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $43,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $55,071/year. With a median household income of $75,247, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Windsor County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Orange County where rent averages $1,145/month, Windsor County is approximately 5% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Windsor County
Rent Burden
17.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,756
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.5%
of gross income
The median home in Windsor County may be a stretch
Median home value is $267,400. Estimated monthly cost: $2,135 vs. your max of $1,756.
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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