countyscore
36.9
County Score
Health 96.4Income & Jobs 93.6Lawn Care 70.1

County Report Card

About Chittenden County, Vermont

Underperforming the National Median

Despite being an economic hub, Chittenden's 36.9 composite score is well below the national median of 50.0. High costs and urban pressures weigh down its national standing.

Trailing the Vermont Average

Chittenden trails the Vermont state average of 44.6. The trade-off for its high wages is a significantly higher cost of living compared to neighboring counties.

Economic and Medical Hub

The county excels in opportunity with an income score of 93.6 and a median household income of $94,310. Public health is also elite, boasting a score of 96.4.

Extreme Costs and Safety

A cost score of 4.6 and a safety score of 6.2 are the county's primary struggles. High median rents of $1,590 and home values of $404,500 create a high barrier to entry.

The High-Earning Urbanite

Chittenden is best for high-earning young professionals who want the best health care and wages in the state. It is less suited for those seeking a quiet or affordable rural lifestyle.

Score breakdown

Tax9.2Cost4.6Safety6.2Health96.4Schools62Income93.6Risk36.1Water62.6Weather53.3
🏛9.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠4.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼93.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡6.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤96.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓62
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡36.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧62.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤53.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨57.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱70.1
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

Grand Isle County
Vermont
59
Lamoille County
Vermont
47.7
Washington County
Vermont
41.7
Franklin County
Vermont
44
Clinton County
New York
51.9
Addison County
Vermont
53.8
Essex County
New York
59.1
Orange County
Vermont
53.3

Deep Dives

Chittenden County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Chittenden County

via TaxByCounty

Chittenden's low rate masks high bills

At 1.614%, Chittenden County's effective tax rate runs 46% above the national median of 1.099%, landing it around the 74th percentile nationally. Though the rate is below some peers, the median tax of $6,527 is the highest in Vermont, driven by homes valued 43% above the national median.

Vermont's most valuable homes, lowest rate

Chittenden County's 1.614% effective rate is actually the lowest among Vermont's counties, sitting below the state average of 1.718%. Yet with a median home value of $404,500, the highest in the state, residents pay the state's largest median tax bill of $6,527.

Lamoille and Grand Isle rate lower

Chittenden's 1.614% rate exceeds Lamoille County's 1.673% to the northeast and Grand Isle County's 1.355% to the north. Among high-value property markets, Chittenden offers a relatively moderate tax rate, though absolute tax payments remain substantial.

Median home yields $6,527 in annual taxes

On a median home value of $404,500, Chittenden County's 1.614% effective rate translates to approximately $6,527 in yearly property taxes, the highest in the state. Both mortgaged ($6,545) and non-mortgaged ($6,480) homeowners face similar burdens across the bracket.

Every assessment error costs more here

In Chittenden County, where property values and tax bills are Vermont's highest, an overassessment compounds into significantly larger losses than elsewhere. Property owners should scrutinize assessments carefully and file appeals if values appear inflated relative to recent comparable sales.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Chittenden County

via CostByCounty

Premium housing in Vermont's job hub

Chittenden County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.2% exceeds both Vermont's 17.8% state average and the national benchmark, reflecting its status as the state's economic engine. With a median household income of $94,310—26% above the national average—Chittenden residents earn significantly more but also face Vermont's steepest housing costs at $1,590 monthly rent.

Vermont's most expensive housing market

Chittenden ranks as Vermont's least affordable county, with median home values of $404,500 towering above all peers and a median rent of $1,590 that's 43% above the state average. Despite having the state's strongest median income, Chittenden's 20.2% rent-to-income ratio is the highest statewide, signaling tight housing markets around Burlington.

Dramatically pricier than all surrounding counties

Chittenden's median rent of $1,590 vastly exceeds all neighbors—32% higher than Franklin ($1,164), 31% higher than Grand Isle ($1,436), and nearly double Caledonia's $904. Home values of $404,500 similarly tower over the region, reflecting Burlington's competitive real estate market and strong regional economy.

High incomes offset high housing costs

Renters pay $1,590 monthly and homeowners $1,839, consuming 20.2% of a median $94,310 household income—the highest burden in Vermont but still manageable. Chittenden's premium rents and home prices are balanced by the state's strongest paychecks, creating a trade-off between cost and economic opportunity.

Pay more to earn more in Burlington area

Chittenden offers Vermont's most robust job market and highest incomes, making it ideal if career growth justifies premium housing costs. If you're relocating for opportunity and can absorb higher rents, Chittenden is unmatched; if affordability is paramount, consider lower-cost neighbors like Franklin or Lamoille with shorter commutes to Burlington jobs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Chittenden County

via IncomeByCounty

Chittenden dominates national earnings

Chittenden County's median household income of $94,310 exceeds the U.S. median of $74,755 by 26%, placing it among the nation's most prosperous county economies. The county's concentration of university jobs, healthcare, and tech startups drives sustained wage growth.

Vermont's wealthiest county by far

Chittenden ranks 1st of 14 Vermont counties, a commanding $19,267 above the state average of $75,043. With per capita income of $50,552, the county leads the state by a wide margin.

Far ahead of all Vermont peers

Chittenden's $94,310 median towers over adjacent Grand Isle County ($90,625) and Franklin County ($79,078). The county's economic engine—anchored by the University of Vermont, Fletcher Allen Health Care, and Burlington's tech corridor—attracts high-earning workers from across the region.

High incomes, high housing costs

Chittenden's rent-to-income ratio of 20.2% crosses the affordability threshold, reflecting surging housing demand and median home values of $404,500. Strong incomes enable homeownership, but renters and first-time buyers face significant competition and cost pressure.

Leverage Chittenden's high earnings

With median household income at $94,310, Chittenden residents have substantial capacity to save and invest beyond housing and living costs. Consider maxing retirement contributions, diversifying into real estate or business ventures, and working with a financial planner to optimize tax efficiency.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Chittenden County

via CrimeByCounty

Safety context for Vermont's population center

Chittenden County holds a safety score of 94.9, which is higher than many urban areas but lower than the Vermont average. Its total crime rate of 3,215.5 per 100,000 exceeds the national average of 2,385.5.

Vermont's highest regional crime rate

As the state's most populous county, Chittenden's crime rate of 3,215.5 is more than double the Vermont state average. Its safety score of 94.9 sits below the state average of 97.8.

Significant contrast with nearby counties

Chittenden County reports significantly higher crime rates than neighboring Addison and Grand Isle counties. With 14 reporting agencies, the county provides the most comprehensive data coverage in the state.

Property crime drives local statistics

Property crime is the primary concern at 2,954.1 per 100,000, which is higher than the national average of 2,015.7. Violent crime remains relatively low at 261.4, well below the U.S. average of 369.8.

Enhance your home's defense

Given the higher property crime rates, modern security cameras and smart locks provide valuable protection. Community vigilance and reporting suspicious activity play a key role in keeping Chittenden safe.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Chittenden County

via HealthByCounty

Chittenden's health outpaces the nation

With 80.8 years of life expectancy, Chittenden exceeds the U.S. average of 76.1 years by 4.7 years—among the nation's best. Just 12.7% of residents report poor or fair health, well below the national 17.9%, reflecting a healthier population.

Vermont's healthiest county

Chittenden County leads Vermont with 80.8 years life expectancy, 2.6 years above the state average of 78.2 years. Its 12.7% poor/fair health rate ranks best-in-state, underscoring the county's position as Vermont's health leader.

Clear health advantage regionally

Chittenden's 80.8-year life expectancy surpasses all peers, outpacing Addison (80.7) by just a hair and beating Lamoille (79.2) by 1.6 years. Its 12.7% poor/fair health rate is the lowest among all regional counties, cementing its leadership.

Exceptional provider density

Chittenden boasts 175 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—the highest in the state—plus 810 mental health providers per 100,000, creating world-class access. With just 4.4% uninsured, the county achieves near-universal coverage, matching Addison's best-in-state rate.

Maintain coverage in Chittenden

Even Chittenden's low 4.4% uninsured rate masks potential coverage gaps and underinsurance among some residents. Review your plan annually at Vermont's health marketplace to ensure continuous, adequate protection.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Chittenden County

via SchoolsByCounty

Vermont’s Largest and Most Diverse School System

Chittenden County manages a robust system of 49 public schools across eight districts, serving a massive enrollment of 21,400 students. This includes 29 elementary, 10 middle, and 10 high schools, making it the educational heart of the state.

High Investment Yields Strong Academic Results

The county spends $13,280 per pupil, exceeding the national average and the Vermont state average of $11,012. These investments support an 85.8% graduation rate and a composite school score of 64.9, significantly higher than the state median.

Major Districts Power the Regional Workforce

Essex Westford Educational Community and Burlington School District are the largest entities, together serving over 7,200 students. There are no charter schools in the county, with all 49 institutions operating as traditional public schools.

Urban and Suburban Variety in School Settings

Unlike its rural neighbors, this county features 15 city schools and 18 suburban schools, with an average size of 455 students. Champlain Valley Union High School is the state's flagship, enrolling 1,325 students.

Find Your Future in a Premier School District

For families prioritizing school variety and high per-pupil funding, Chittenden County is the top choice in Vermont. Explore homes in South Burlington, Essex, or Williston to access some of the highest-rated schools in the state.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Chittenden County

via RiskByCounty

Chittenden faces elevated national risk

Chittenden County's composite risk score of 63.90 places it in the "Relatively Low" range nationally but marks it as significantly more hazard-exposed than the average U.S. county. This profile reflects its position on Lake Champlain and exposure to multiple Atlantic storm tracks.

Vermont's riskiest county overall

With a score of 63.90, Chittenden County ranks as the highest-risk jurisdiction among Vermont's eight counties, substantially exceeding the state average of 36.44. The county's concentration of development and lakefront exposure drive this elevated profile.

Significantly riskier than surrounding counties

Chittenden's risk score outpaces neighboring Franklin County (29.20) and Addison County (26.78) by large margins. Its greater population density and extensive shoreline along Lake Champlain create exposure multipliers not seen in more rural neighbors.

Earthquakes, floods, and wind lead hazards

Chittenden County faces its highest risk from earthquakes (76.65) and floods (76.37), both scoring in the upper ranges statewide. Tornado risk (29.52) and hurricane risk (65.92) round out a complex hazard portfolio driven by geography and population concentration.

Multiple insurance layers save homes

Chittenden County residents should carry both NFIP flood insurance and comprehensive homeowners coverage with adequate wind and hail protection. Properties near Lake Champlain or in mapped flood zones face compounded risk and warrant particularly robust coverage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Chittenden County

via WeatherByCounty

Vermont’s Warmest Urban Center

Chittenden County averages 47.0°F, which is cool compared to the national median but leads the state in warmth. Its proximity to Lake Champlain helps moderate the extreme cold.

Top Ranked for Heat

Chittenden is the warmest county in Vermont, sitting 3.4 degrees above the state average of 43.6°F. It experiences more heat days than any of its neighboring counties.

Leading the Champlain Valley

At 47.0°F, it is noticeably warmer than Addison County’s 44.0°F. It also receives less snow than the mountainous regions to the east, like Lamoille.

Warmer Summers and Moderate Snow

The county sees 8 days of 90-degree heat, the highest in the state, with July averages reaching 71.7°F. Annual snowfall totals 86.7 inches, which is moderate for this latitude.

Prepare for Humidity and Snow

Unlike most of Vermont, residents here may want central air conditioning to handle the 8 extreme heat days. Winter prep remains vital as January averages still sit at 20.0°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Chittenden County

via SoilByCounty

Milder Acidity in Chittenden's Soil

Chittenden features a pH of 5.41, which is acidic compared to the 6.5 national median but notably higher than the Vermont average of 4.86. This makes it one of the more balanced soils in the state for agricultural use.

Sandy Texture Warms Quickly

A high sand content of 47.2% dominates the profile, balanced by 10.0% clay. This mix allows for excellent drainage and rapid warming in the spring, though it may require more frequent watering than silty soils.

Productive Land with Moderate Retention

Organic matter stands at 11.85%, which is high nationally but lower than Vermont’s 29.01% average. The water capacity of 0.170 in/in is also below the state average, requiring attentive irrigation during dry spells.

Versatile Grounds for Urban Growth

The sand-heavy texture prevents pooling and swampy conditions despite the lack of specific drainage class data. This makes Chittenden's soil a versatile choice for both suburban landscaping and commercial farming.

Diverse Potential in Zone 5a

Hardiness Zone 5a supports a wide range of vegetables, from peppers to pumpkins. With its 57.4 soil score, this county is a solid place to establish a productive and diverse home garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Chittenden County

via LawnByCounty

Vermont's Most User-Friendly Lawns

Chittenden County boasts a high lawn score of 70.1, making it one of the easiest places in Vermont to grow grass. The combination of hardiness zone 5a and favorable local conditions puts it well ahead of the national median.

Warmest Growing Season in the State

With 2638 growing degree days and 8 extreme heat days, Chittenden enjoys a robust and active growing season. Precipitation of 39.9 inches is nearly ideal, keeping grass hydrated without the risk of frequent waterlogging.

Sandy Soil with Moderate Acidity

Soil pH averages 5.41, which is slightly better than many neighbors but still requires lime to reach the 6.0-7.0 target. The high sand content of 47.2% ensures good drainage but may require more frequent, light watering.

Resilient Against Recent Drought

Currently, 0% of the county is in any drought category, reflecting a stable moisture year. This follows only 13 weeks of drought over the past 12 months, the lowest among its regional peers.

Seeding with an Early Start

Take advantage of the early May 2nd frost-free date to begin your lawn projects. Kentucky Bluegrass thrives here, benefiting from the long season and warm summer temperatures.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chittenden County's county score?
Chittenden County, Vermont has a composite county score of 36.9 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Chittenden County rank among counties in Vermont?
Chittenden County ranks #11 among all counties in Vermont on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Chittenden County, Vermont?
The median annual property tax in Chittenden County is $6,527, with an effective tax rate of 1.61%. This earns Chittenden County a tax score of 9.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Chittenden County?
The median household income in Chittenden County, Vermont is $94,310 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Chittenden County earns an income score of 93.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Chittenden County, Vermont a good place to live?
Chittenden County scores 36.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #11 in Vermont. The best way to evaluate Chittenden County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Chittenden County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.