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Writer's pictureJulie Danaher

What is it like to live in Burlington Vermont?



Welcome to Burlington, Vermont

What is it like to live in Burlington, Vermont? While not the state's capital, Burlington carries the charm and vibrancy of Vermont's most populous city, often referred to as the Queen City.


What you can expect to walk away with:

  1. What makes it VT’s Queen city and some quick real estate facts

  2. An understanding of Burlington's neighborhood layout… What does ONE stand for?

  3. Amenities transportation and more!

  4. Best places to enjoy Lake Champlain and where to find a magical treehouse...


View of a brick-paved pedestrian street in downtown Burlington, Vermont, featuring historic red brick buildings on either side, a prominent church steeple in the distance, and a pedestrian, illustrating a vibrant urban scene ideal for city living.
Church Street Marketplace

What is it like to live in Burlington Vermont?

Burlington is known as the Queen City, a hub for art, theater, food, great beer, and the natural beauty of Lake Champlain, which contribute to its standing as the most populated city in Vermont. With a population of just over 44,000 people and about 17,000 households, the city combines a small-town feel with the amenities of a larger city. The median household income is around $64,000, and recent real estate data shows the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment ranges from $2,000 to $2,400. The median sales price for a single-family home at the end of 2023 was $632,000, with condos and townhomes averaging around $340,000.



Art meets architecture in Burlington, Vermont, where a large blue tree mural draws the eye on an old brick building with wooden accents, illustrating the blend of historic structures and contemporary art that characterizes the city.
Mural in the South End

What is it like to live in Burlington's Neighborhoods?

Burlington’s layout offers an insight into its diverse communities:


  • Downtown Burlington mixes multifamily units, apartments, and high-rise townhomes, supported by a rich local music and arts scene.

  • The University Section caters to employees of UVM and the Medical Center, offering older, often Victorian, single-family homes and multifamilies.

  • The Hill Section features larger estate homes with spacious properties, providing a serene setting close to urban amenities.

  • The South End is famous for smaller, trendy homes and events like Art Hop, fostering a strong community spirit through arts.


A colorful building mural in Burlington's Old North End reading 'WELCOME TO THE ONE', with large letters and a heart symbol, embodying the neighborhood's welcoming and creative spirit
Artistic Vibrance in Burlington's Old North End

Cultural and Recreational Activities

Burlington is not just about homes. The Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian-only area, is the heart of the city, surrounded by various festivals throughout the year, such as the Jazz Fest, Festival of Fools, and more. The Burlington Bike Path offers 7.6 miles of breathtaking views along Lake Champlain, recently upgraded to enhance visitor experiences.


Dining and Breweries

From the Skinny Pancake’s crepes to the fresh seafood at Shanty on the Shore, Burlington’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscape. Breweries like Foam Brewers and Switchback Brewery highlight the city's thriving craft beer scene, with numerous others contributing to the local flavor.


A man and a woman stand in the arched doorway of the historic Ethan Allen Tower in Burlington, VT, a stone structure resembling a medieval fortress, set against a cloudy sky.
Exploring Burlington's Historical Landmarks: A Visit to Ethan Allen Tower

Education and Transportation

Burlington hosts several educational institutions, including the University of Vermont and Champlain College, enhancing the city's youthful and educational environment. Transportation options are plentiful, with major bus lines, a train station, and a friendly setup for cyclists, ensuring easy navigation around the city.


Final Thoughts

Burlington, Vermont, seamlessly blends the serenity of lakeside living with the bustle of urban life. Whether it's the farm-to-table restaurants, the thriving arts scene, or the picturesque sunset views by Lake Champlain, Burlington invites both residents and visitors to enjoy its many offerings. If you're captivated by what Burlington has to offer, stay tuned for more detailed explorations of each neighborhood to truly understand what makes each one unique.


A picturesque Tudor-style house in Burlington, VT, surrounded by mature trees and bathed in sunlight, highlighting the peaceful, suburban charm of the area.
Charming Residential Architecture in Burlington's Neighborhoods

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