Retiring in Vermont (2026)

Vermont ranks #50 of 51 nationally for retirement friendliness (55/100 vs national avg 73/100). Housing costs are #32 of 51 cheapest, and cost of living overall is moderately above the US average.

Retirement Score

Median Home

$385k

Nat'l avg $358k

Cost of Living

111(US=100)

Nat'l avg 103

Climate

cold humid

Healthcare

75/100

Reasons to Retire Here

✓Very safe
✓Beautiful scenery
✓Strong community services

Trade-Offs to Know

•High cost of living
•Cold winters
•Estate tax
•SS partially taxed

Climate for Older Adults

Vermont's climate is cold and humid in winter, with hot humid summers. Snow removal and ice are real considerations for older adults.

Total Financial Picture

The key financial factors for a Vermont retirement:

• Housing: Median home value $385,000. That's about $27k more expensive than the national median.
• Cost of living index: 111 vs 100 US baseline — everyday goods like groceries, gas, and services run moderately above the US average.
• Tax friendliness: 50/100 — Social Security is partially or fully taxed; pensions are fully taxed. See the full Vermont tax guide.
• Healthcare access: 75/100 — good in metro areas, thinner in rural regions.
• Safety: 82/100 — well above average safety statewide.

Vermont scores below average for retirement primarily on cost or tax friendliness. It can still be right if family, cultural amenities, or specific health-care access matter more than the financial factors.

Safety & Crime

82/100

Above-average safety compared to other states. Property crime and violent crime both below national norms.

Common Questions — Retiring in Vermont

Is Vermont a tax-friendly state for retirees?

Vermont scores 50/100 on our tax friendliness scale. It taxes at least some Social Security or retirement income — plan for this in your budget. See the full state tax breakdown.

What's the median home price in Vermont?

About $385,000 statewide, though costs vary significantly by city. Popular retirement communities and coastal areas tend to run above the state median; rural areas run below.

Is healthcare access good in Vermont?

Healthcare access scores 75/100. Good in urban and suburban areas; rural regions have fewer specialists. Consider proximity to a major medical center if you have chronic conditions.

Are there active senior communities in Vermont?

Yes, but concentration varies by region. Look at MSAs (metropolitan statistical areas) that skew older; Vermont has plenty of 55+ communities in metro suburbs.