Vermont feels like stepping into a different world. After exploring this incredible state through all four seasons, I understand why people dream of moving here. My first morning in Burlington, watching the sunrise over Lake Champlain while sipping coffee from a local roaster, I got why everyone who visits starts browsing real estate listings.
These are the best places in Vermont that blend small town charm with serious quality of life. Take Woodstock, where I spent days wandering between farm-to-table restaurants, artisan shops, and hiking trails that start right in town. Whether you’re looking to escape city life or just want to live somewhere where nature and culture perfectly mix, these spots will show you why Vermont keeps drawing in people who value the good life.
Most Amazing Places to Live in Vermont in 2025
Looking for the best Places to Live in Vermont in 2025? Explore the historic charm of Bennington, enjoy the vibrant community in Brattleboro, experience the cultural hub of Burlington, settle in the scenic town of Colchester, and appreciate the welcoming atmosphere of Essex Junction. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, here are the top places to consider in Vermont.
- Best for community spirit: Bennington
- Best for natural beauty: Brattleboro
- Best for lakeside tranquility: Burlington
- Best for modern conveniences: Colchester
- Best for modern amenities: Essex Junction
- Best for outdoor activities: Middlebury
- Best for small-town charm in a state capital: Montpelier
- Best for community engagement: Norwich
- Best for cultural richness: Shelburne
- Best for four-season outdoor activities: Stowe
- Best for natural landscapes: Williston
1. Bennington
Bennington is where Vermont’s history, arts, and natural beauty come together. Tucked in the southwest corner of the state, this town is home to the Bennington Battle Monument, charming bookstores, and a thriving local art scene. Strolling through Main Street, you’ll find galleries, artisan shops, and cozy cafés that make the town feel effortlessly welcoming.
Nature lovers will appreciate the Green Mountains and nearby hiking trails, while those seeking culture can enjoy the Southern Vermont Arts Center and the annual Bennington Arts Weekend. The town’s schools, healthcare facilities, and strong community vibe make it a great choice for families and retirees alike.
Bennington offers small-town charm without feeling isolated. If you’re looking for a place with history, scenic beauty, and a creative spirit, this classic Vermont town is a lovely place to call home.
2. Brattleboro
Brattleboro is Vermont’s artsy, free-spirited gem. Set along the Connecticut River, this town is bursting with creativity, community, and character. The streets are lined with independent bookstores, funky coffee shops, and artisan boutiques—the kind of places that make you want to linger a little longer.
Saturdays here start at the Brattleboro Farmers’ Market, where you’ll find fresh produce, live music, and some of the best local eats in the state. Outdoor lovers can kayak the river, hike the Retreat Trails, or cycle through stunning backroads. And if you’re into sustainability, you’ll fit right in—Brattleboro is big on eco-conscious living, farm-to-table dining, and local co-ops.
If you’re looking for a town that’s quirky, welcoming, and packed with personality, Brattleboro delivers. It’s a place where you can be yourself—and find a community that celebrates that.
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3. Burlington
Burlington is the city that makes you wonder why more places aren’t like Burlington. Sitting right on Lake Champlain, this vibrant hub is where college-town energy, waterfront beauty, and a love for the outdoors all collide in the best way.
At the center of it all is Church Street Marketplace, a walkable street packed with local shops, buzzing cafés, and street performers. Love farm-to-table dining? Burlington practically invented it. Love the outdoors? The Burlington Greenway offers miles of lakeside biking, and winter brings top-tier skiing just a short drive away.
With The University of Vermont keeping the city young and innovative, Burlington has the energy of a big city without losing its small-town soul. If you want a place where people care about their community, adventure is always within reach, and sunsets over the lake never get old, Burlington might be for you.
4. Colchester
Colchester is where lakeside serenity meets everyday convenience. Sitting right on Lake Champlain, this town offers the best of both worlds—gorgeous waterfront views and easy access to Burlington’s city buzz.
If you love being outdoors, Colchester has you covered. Spend summers paddleboarding on Malletts Bay, biking the Island Line Trail, or catching sunsets at Airport Park. Winters? Think cozy cafés, snowshoeing trails, and skiing just a short drive away. There’s always something for everyone!
Beyond the natural beauty, Colchester has top-rated schools, strong community vibes, and a growing job market. The town’s mix of historic lakefront cottages and modern homes means there’s something for everyone, whether you’re after a quiet retreat or a lively neighborhood. Lake breezes, fresh mountain air, and a laid-back lifestyle with plenty of adventure—Colchester might just be your perfect match.
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5. Essex Junction
Essex Junction is the kind of town where community still matters, and life moves at just the right pace. It’s big enough to have all the essentials—top-rated schools, local shops, and a strong job market—but small enough that you’ll always see a familiar face at the farmers’ market.
Locals love the Champlain Valley Fair, lively downtown cafés, and the miles of nearby trails perfect for hiking and cross-country skiing. Indian Brook Reservoir is a favorite spot for getting outside, while Essex Junction’s growing business scene keeps professionals and entrepreneurs thriving. Whether you’re looking for a quiet neighborhood or a place with easy access to Burlington, there’s something for everyone here.
If you want a town with small-town charm, city convenience, and a true sense of belonging, Essex Junction is ready to welcome you home.
6. Middlebury
Middlebury is the kind of town that instantly feels like home. It’s got that classic New England charm with a dash of college-town energy, thanks to Middlebury College, which brings in students, artists, and lifelong learners. The downtown area is brimming with independent bookstores, farm-to-table restaurants, and a thriving arts scene.
Nature is never far away here. The Otter Creek Falls make for the perfect backdrop on an afternoon stroll, and if you love the outdoors, you’ll have hiking, skiing, and biking trails right at your fingertips. Plus, Middlebury’s community is one of the friendliest around, with seasonal festivals, farmers’ markets, and a deep appreciation for Vermont’s natural beauty.
For those craving a mix of culture, outdoor adventure, and a welcoming small-town feel, Middlebury is the perfect place to put down roots.
7. Montpelier
Montpelier may be the smallest state capital in the U.S., but it’s packed with personality. This isn’t your typical government town—it’s a place where charming historic streets, an artsy downtown, and a love for the outdoors all come together. You’ll find cozy bookstores, farm-to-table restaurants, and an active community that thrives on creativity and connection.
Nature is never far in Montpelier. The Green Mountains offer hiking, skiing, and year-round outdoor adventures, while Hubbard Park—just steps from downtown—gives locals a peaceful escape into nature. Despite its capital city status, Montpelier moves at a relaxed, friendly pace, making it an ideal place for those who want a mix of culture and tranquility.
If you’re looking for a town with historic charm, a close-knit community, and endless ways to enjoy the outdoors, what’s not to love about Montpelier?
8. Norwich
Norwich is straight out of a Vermont postcard—quaint, welcoming, and packed with small-town charm. Sitting along the Connecticut River, this town is known for its strong community spirit, historic homes, and an unbeatable quality of life. The local Norwich Farmers Market is a weekend staple, filled with fresh produce, artisan goods, and friendly faces.
Despite its rural charm, Norwich has a touch of intellectual energy, thanks to its close connection with Dartmouth College right across the river in New Hampshire. This means you get a vibrant mix of cultural events, lectures, and top-notch dining options without losing that quiet Vermont feel. For outdoor lovers, the nearby Appalachian Trail and riverfront views make every season an adventure.
If your dream town includes a scenic backdrop, a warm community, and easy access to both nature and culture, Norwich is the answer.
9. Shelburne
Shelburne is where Vermont’s natural beauty meets artsy, small-town charm. Just south of Burlington, this lakeside gem is home to stunning mountain views, historic sites, and a thriving creative scene. The Shelburne Museum is a must-visit, blending art, history, and Americana in a way that makes locals proud.
Life here revolves around Lake Champlain’s serene shores—you can kayak, sail, or simply soak in the sunsets. Shelburne Farms, a working farm and education center, offers walking trails, fresh local food, and a taste of Vermont’s agricultural roots. Add in a great school system, a strong sense of community, and easy access to Burlington’s urban perks, and you’ve got a place that truly has it all.
For those craving a picturesque lakeside town with culture, outdoor adventure, and a friendly community, Shelburne is hard to beat.
10. Stowe
Stowe isn’t just a town—it’s a four-season adventure waiting to happen. Famous for its world-class skiing and mountain charm, this place draws outdoor lovers from all over. But it’s not just about the slopes—hiking, mountain biking, and scenic drives through Smugglers’ Notch make every season here spectacular. Fall transforms the landscape into a canvas of brilliant foliage, while summer brings opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and exploring Vermont’s backroads.
Beyond the adventure, Stowe has a thriving arts and food scene. The town is filled with cozy cafés, craft breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants, plus plenty of local galleries showcasing Vermont’s creative side. Festivals like the Stowe Winter Carnival, summer hot air balloon festival, and weekly farmers’ markets keep the community spirit alive all year long.
If you’re looking for a place where adventure, culture, and breathtaking views are part of everyday life, Stowe might just be your perfect escape.
11. Williston
Williston is Vermont’s perfect balance—modern convenience with plenty of space to breathe. Located just outside Burlington, it’s got all the perks of suburban life while keeping you close to nature. Whether you’re paddling on Lake Iroquois, hiking at Catamount Outdoor Family Center, or hitting the local shops at Maple Tree Place, there is something for everyone.
Families love it here, thanks to highly rated schools, safe neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of biking trails, skiing in the winter, and farmers’ markets brimming with fresh local produce. Plus, with a growing job market and easy access to Burlington, Williston is an excellent spot for young professionals.
For those who want a peaceful, family-friendly town that doesn’t sacrifice modern comforts, Williston is a fantastic choice.
12. Woodstock
And finally, we arrive at Woodstock—one of Vermont’s most beloved gems. This town looks like it was plucked straight from a storybook, with its quaint covered bridges, historic village green, and charming colonial homes. But beyond its postcard-perfect beauty, Woodstock offers a deep sense of community, a love for the arts, and endless outdoor adventures.
Stroll through local galleries and farm-to-table eateries, hike scenic trails in Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, or explore the town’s bustling farmers’ market. Every season brings something special—fall foliage that paints the town in gold, winter festivals that feel like a holiday movie, and summers filled with outdoor concerts and fairs.
If you’re looking for a place where small-town charm meets vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, Woodstock is the Vermont dream you didn’t know you needed.
