Vermont

Vermont is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. The state’s landscapes range from rolling hills and fertile valleys to the majestic Green Mountains, which dominate much of the terrain. The changing seasons, particularly the vibrant fall foliage, attract visitors from all over.

Like some states in the country, the state is undergoing a major change, sales are declining and prices are plummeting. For instance, the median price of a home in Vermont is approximately $344,600. This is so much lower than the average cost of a home in a state like California which is roughly $799,000.

State highlights

Vermont celebrates its own Independence Day on August 16th, known as ’Bennington Battle Day.’ This commemorates the Battle of Bennington during the American Revolutionary War.

It was not one of the original 13 colonies but was the first state to join the Union after them, becoming the 14th state on March 4, 1791.

The state is the leading producer of maple syrup in the United States. The state’s sugar maples are tapped in the spring to produce this sweet treat.

Vermont is one of the four states in the U.S. that bans the use of billboards along highways, contributing to its scenic beauty and rural feel.

It was the first state to legally recognize same-sex civil unions, enacting this legislation in 2000. This was a significant step toward LGBTQ+ rights.

Montpelier, Vermont’s capital, is the only U.S. state capital without a McDonald’s restaurant. It’s also the smallest state capital in terms of population.

The Vermont Teddy Bear Company, located in Shelburne, produces handcrafted teddy bears and is known for its creative and unique bear designs.

Senator Bernie Sanders, a prominent figure in American politics, hails from Vermont. He gained national attention during the 2016 and 2020 presidential campaigns

The silent film ’A Vermont Romance’ (1916) is one of the earliest movies to be shot in Vermont. It showcased the state’s scenic landscapes.

Geographic location

Vermont is the second smallest state in the U.S. by land area, covering approximately 9,616 square miles, making it one of the smaller states in the United States in terms of land area.

It is bordered by the states of New York to the west, New Hampshire to the east, Massachusetts to the south, and the Canadian province of Quebec to the north.

Climate

Vermont experiences four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, making it a popular destination for winter sports. Summers are warm and relatively humid, providing excellent conditions for outdoor activities.

Winters in Vermont are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common, especially in the higher elevations and mountainous areas.

Spring brings a gradual thawing of the snow and a transition to milder temperatures. However, the weather can still be quite unpredictable, with snowfall possible even in March.

As the snow melts and temperatures rise, Vermont’s landscape begins to bloom with colorful wildflowers and budding trees.

Summers in Vermont are generally warm and pleasant, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s °F. Summer is also a season for festivals, farmers’ markets, and other community events.

Fall, also known as ’foliage season,’ is one of the most iconic times to visit Vermont. The state’s forests turn into a breathtaking display of vibrant colors, attracting visitors from all over.

Demography

The capital of Vermont is Montpelier and the largest city in Vermont state is Burlington. Other major cities include South Burlington, Essex Junction, Montpelier, and Colchester, According to U.S. Census Bureau in 2022, it had an estimated population of 647,064 people.

Vermont has a diverse population with various ethnic and racial backgrounds. The largest ethnic group is non-Hispanic White, followed by Hispanic or Latino, African American, Native American, and Asian.

Vermont has a so much older median age than the rest of the U.S., at around 43 years old compared to the national average of 38.5.

Cost of Living

The cost of living is reported to be high at Vermont State. Burlington has a median home price of about $344,600. Which is slightly higher than the national average of $339,048. Median income levels can vary based on factors such as education, occupation, and location within Vermont. The average median income in Vermont is approximately $54,447.

The average salary in the state of Vermont is approximately $ 45,881 per year.

Transportation

Vermont has a network of well-maintained roads and highways that connect its towns, cities, and rural areas. Interstate 89 and Interstate 91 are the major highways that run through the state, connecting Vermont to neighboring states.

Public transportation options in Vermont are limited compared to more urbanized states. However, there are some bus services available, including intercity and regional routes. The Chittenden County Transportation Authority (CCTA) operates bus services in and around Burlington, the state’s largest city.

Vermont has limited passenger rail services, including Amtrak’s ’Vermonter’ line, which runs from Washington, D.C., to St. Albans, Vermont. This route provides a scenic train journey through the state.

The state of Vermont has a few regional airports that provide air travel options within the state and to nearby cities. Burlington International Airport (BTV) is the largest airport and offers flights to major cities in the United States.

Vermont’s transportation options can be affected by its weather patterns, especially during the winter months when snow and ice can impact road travel.

Schools

Vermont is home to several notable schools including elementary, middle, and high schools and universities. The following list is some of the best universities in Vermont.

University of Vermont (UVM): Located in Burlington, UVM is the state’s flagship public research university. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields.

Middlebury College: Known for its strong liberal arts programs, Middlebury College is a prestigious private institution located in Middlebury. It’s particularly renowned for its language programs and international studies.

Bennington College: Another distinguished liberal arts college, Bennington College is located in Bennington. It emphasizes experiential learning and offers a unique educational approach.

Norwich University: Located in Northfield, Norwich University is the oldest private military college in the United States. It’s known for its strong programs in engineering, architecture, and military studies.

Castleton University: A public liberal arts university located in Castleton, it offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across different disciplines.

Vermont Law School: Situated in South Royalton, Vermont Law School is a renowned institution for environmental law and has a strong focus on legal and policy issues related to the environment.

Saint Michael’s College: A private Catholic liberal arts college located in Colchester, Saint Michael’s offers a range of academic programs in the arts, sciences, and humanities.

Community College of Vermont (CCV): CCV has multiple campuses across the state, offering associate degrees and certificates in various fields. It’s known for its flexibility and accessibility to adult learners.

Vermont Technical College: This public technical college has campuses in Randolph Center and Williston. It provides hands-on education in areas such as engineering, agriculture, health sciences, and more.

What is the state like?

Vermont is known for its small towns, rural communities, and close-knit neighborhoods. The pace of life tends to be slower and more relaxed, fostering a strong sense of community and local connection.

Vermont has a history of progressive politics and social values. It has been at the forefront of movements related to civil rights, environmental conservation, and healthcare access. This progressive mindset is often reflected in state policies and initiatives.

Agriculture plays a significant role in Vermont’s identity. The state is known for its dairy farming, artisanal cheese production, and, of course, maple syrup production. Farmers’ markets, local food festivals, and farm-to-table dining are integral parts of Vermont’s culinary scene.

Vermont has a relatively small population, which contributes to its sense of community and the ability to form close relationships with neighbors and locals.