countyscore
59
County Score
Disaster Risk 98.1Schools 92.7Income & Jobs 92.2

County Report Card

About Grand Isle County, Vermont

Elite National Performance

Grand Isle County earns an impressive 59.0 composite score, far exceeding the national median of 50.0. It ranks as one of the most livable counties in the nation by this metric.

The Pride of Vermont

With a 59.0 score, the county is a leader in Vermont, crushing the state average of 44.6. Its combination of safety and schools makes it a premier regional choice.

Top-Tier Safety and Schools

Environmental resilience is nearly unmatched with a risk score of 98.1. The county also boasts elite school (92.7) and health (91.0) scores that support long-term family success.

High Barriers to Entry

Real estate is expensive, leading to a low cost score of 7.5. A median home value of $363,500 and high rents can make it difficult for new residents to find affordable housing.

The Premier Family Destination

This is the best destination for affluent families who prioritize education and low environmental risk. It suits those who can afford the entry price for a high-security community.

Score breakdown

Tax18.7Cost7.5Safety77.2Health91Schools92.7Income92.2Risk98.1Water51.8Weather54.5
🏛18.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠7.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼92.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡77.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤91
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓92.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡98.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧51.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤54.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨64.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱72.5
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

Clinton County
New York
51.9
Franklin County
Vermont
44
Chittenden County
Vermont
36.9
Lamoille County
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47.7
Essex County
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Washington County
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Franklin County
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Orleans County
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Deep Dives

Grand Isle County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Grand Isle County

via TaxByCounty

Grand Isle's unusually low tax burden

At 1.355%, Grand Isle County's effective tax rate is the lowest in Vermont and trails the national median of 1.099% by only 23%, placing it around the 55th percentile nationally. The median tax of $4,927 exceeds the national median of $2,690 solely because Grand Isle homes are valued 29% above the national average.

Vermont's most favorable tax rate

Grand Isle County leads Vermont with the lowest effective tax rate at 1.355%, well below the state average of 1.718%. This 0.363 percentage point advantage makes Grand Isle particularly attractive for property owners seeking lower levies across the state.

Significantly undercuts Chittenden and Franklin

Grand Isle's 1.355% rate substantially outperforms Chittenden County's 1.614% to the south and Franklin County's 1.486% to the west. Among northwestern Vermont options, Grand Isle offers the steepest tax break.

Annual tax roughly $4,927 on median home

On Grand Isle County's median home value of $363,500, a 1.355% effective rate produces approximately $4,927 in yearly taxes. Homeowners with mortgages pay around $4,768, while those without mortgages pay roughly $5,530.

Appeals matter across all property values

Grand Isle's low rates make it an attractive region, but overassessed properties still chip away at that advantage unfairly. If your home is valued significantly above recent comparable sales, an appeal to your assessor could recover years of overpayment and protect future tax bills.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Grand Isle County

via CostByCounty

Island living costs more, but incomes support it

Grand Isle County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.0% exceeds Vermont's state average of 17.8%, placing it among the state's more expensive markets, yet its median household income of $90,625 ranks second-statewide and 21% above the national average. Island living commands a premium, but stronger-than-average incomes help offset higher housing costs.

Island premium reflected in housing costs

Grand Isle's 19.0% rent-to-income ratio is among Vermont's highest, paired with a median home value of $363,500 that ranks third statewide after Chittenden. Despite strong median income of $90,625, the island location elevates both rents and home values, creating a premium-priced market second only to Chittenden.

Island pricing exceeds nearby mainland counties

Grand Isle's median rent of $1,436 is substantially higher than Franklin ($1,164) and Lamoille ($1,123), though lower than Chittenden's $1,590, reflecting its island premium. Home values of $363,500 similarly position Grand Isle between Addison ($333,700) and Chittenden ($404,500), marking it as the region's second-priciest real estate market.

Premium housing supported by strong wages

Renters pay $1,436 monthly and homeowners $1,597 against a median income of $90,625, consuming 19.0% of household budgets. While this is Vermont's second-highest housing burden, incomes are strong enough that families retain over 81% of earnings for other needs.

Choose islands if you value lifestyle and earn well

Grand Isle's picturesque island communities command higher rents and home prices, but strong median incomes make housing manageable for well-earning relocators prioritizing lifestyle. If you need maximum affordability, choose Caledonia or Essex; if you want island living with strong incomes, Grand Isle delivers.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Grand Isle County

via IncomeByCounty

Grand Isle ranks among nation's best

Grand Isle County's median household income of $90,625 surpasses the U.S. median of $74,755 by 21%, placing it in the nation's top quartile. Strong tourism, lake-based recreation, and proximity to Burlington support high-earning employment.

Second in Vermont, near Chittenden

Grand Isle ranks 2nd of 14 Vermont counties, just $3,685 below Chittenden's $94,310 median. The county's per capita income of $53,254 is the state's second-highest, reflecting well-paying professional and seasonal employment.

Outpaces Franklin and Lamoille

Grand Isle's $90,625 median tops Franklin County ($79,078) by $11,547 and Lamoille County ($69,897) by $20,728. The county's island location and Lake Champlain appeal attract affluent residents and seasonal workers, boosting overall income.

Housing costs climb with prosperity

Grand Isle's rent-to-income ratio of 19.0% approaches the 20% threshold, reflecting rising housing demand from wealthy newcomers and summer residents. The median home value of $363,500 is the state's second-highest; strong incomes enable ownership but create rental pressures.

Capitalize on Grand Isle's income edge

With median household income at $90,625, Grand Isle residents enjoy excellent capacity to build substantial wealth through disciplined investing. Max out retirement accounts, diversify into rental properties or small business ventures, and consult a wealth advisor to optimize long-term strategy.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Grand Isle County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional safety in the Lake Champlain islands

Grand Isle County carries a high safety score of 99.1, placing it far above the national average for security. Its total crime rate of 545.3 per 100,000 is less than a quarter of the national rate.

Among Vermont's safest island communities

The county's crime rate of 545.3 is much lower than the Vermont state average of 1,397.0. Note that these figures come from a single reporting agency, which may limit the breadth of the data.

Lower crime than mainland neighbors

Grand Isle is significantly safer than neighboring Chittenden and Franklin counties. Its unique geography and small population contribute to one of the lowest crime profiles in the state.

Violent crime is extremely rare

The violent crime rate is just 40.9 per 100,000, far below the national average of 369.8. Property crime stands at 504.4, which is about 75% lower than what is typical across the United States.

Island security starts with you

Even in very safe areas, securing watercraft and home entries is a smart practice. Maintaining a visible presence and looking out for neighbors keeps the Grand Isle community secure.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Grand Isle County

via HealthByCounty

Grand Isle meets national health norms

Grand Isle's 78.5-year life expectancy sits 2.4 years above the U.S. average of 76.1 years, a solid advantage. With 12.6% poor or fair health versus the national 17.9%, residents report better health than the typical American.

Slightly above Vermont average

Grand Isle's 78.5-year life expectancy edges above Vermont's 78.2-year average, though marginally. Its 12.6% poor/fair health rate ranks better than the state average, positioning the county as a small but healthy outlier.

Modest health above surrounding areas

Grand Isle's 78.5 years marginally exceeds Lamoille (79.2), Bennington (76.7), and Caledonia (76.7), though it trails Addison (80.7) and Chittenden (80.8). Its 12.6% poor/fair health rate matches Lamoille and Franklin, reflecting regional consistency.

Rural access challenges persist

Grand Isle has just 67 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and only 94 mental health providers per 100,000, well below state averages. At 5.2% uninsured, the county's coverage rate slightly trails Vermont's 5.1% average, leaving small gaps.

Connect to coverage in Grand Isle

With rural provider constraints, health insurance becomes even more valuable for accessing care across borders. Visit Vermont's marketplace to find plans that cover out-of-county providers and ensure your family stays protected.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Grand Isle County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Focused Elementary System on the Islands

Grand Isle County has a unique educational landscape consisting of just four public schools, all of which are elementary. These schools serve 525 total students across three small island districts.

High Per-Pupil Spending for Island Learners

The county invests $11,429 per pupil, which is higher than the Vermont state average of $11,012. While graduation rate data for the county is limited, the high spending indicates a commitment to maintaining quality island facilities.

Champlain Islands Unified Leads the Region

The Champlain Islands Unified Union School District #66 is the largest district, managing two schools and 190 students. There are no charter schools available on the islands, keeping education strictly within local public districts.

Intimate Rural Schools with Island Charm

All four schools in the county are rural, with an average enrollment of just 131 students. The Alburg Community Education Center is the largest site with 194 students, while North Hero School serves only 50.

Life on the Lake with Personalized Schooling

Grand Isle offers some of the most intimate primary school settings in Vermont. Families seeking a quiet island lifestyle should look for homes near Alburg or South Hero to benefit from these small, well-funded community schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Grand Isle County

via RiskByCounty

Grand Isle ranks among America's lowest

Grand Isle County's composite risk score of 1.91 represents one of the nation's safest natural hazard profiles, with a "Very Low" rating across all major categories. Its island setting in Lake Champlain provides exceptional geographic protection.

Vermont's second-safest county

Grand Isle County's score of 1.91 ranks second-lowest in Vermont, just above Essex County's 3.21, and represents less than 6% of the state average risk of 36.44. The county's limited mainland exposure drives this exceptional profile.

Dramatically safer than surrounding counties

Grand Isle's risk score of 1.91 stands far below neighboring Chittenden County (63.90) and Addison County (26.78). Its island setting and smaller population create isolation that translates to measurably lower hazard exposure.

Hurricane risk poses minimal concern

Grand Isle County's highest hazard score—hurricane risk at 34.54—remains significantly below statewide norms and national averages. Earthquake risk (30.57) and flood risk (12.79) round out an exceptionally benign hazard environment.

Standard homeowners insurance suffices

Grand Isle County residents can typically rely on basic homeowners insurance without specialized flood or wind coverage, making it one of Vermont's most affordable counties for disaster insurance. Standard annual reviews ensure adequate replacement values remain current.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Grand Isle County

via WeatherByCounty

Vermont’s Unique Lake Climate

Grand Isle averages 46.7°F, which is warm for Vermont but still 7 degrees below the national median. Its island geography creates a unique microclimate in Lake Champlain.

Second Warmest in Vermont

The county is 3.1 degrees warmer than the state average, ranking as the second warmest in this data set. The lake water acts as a thermal battery, softening winter's edge.

Drier and Warmer Than Most

Grand Isle's 46.7°F average is much higher than Franklin’s 44.5°F. It is also the driest county in the group, receiving only 35.0 inches of annual precipitation.

Less Snow and Warmer Summers

The county receives only 50.1 inches of snow, the lowest in this group by far. Summers are warm and humid, with July averaging 71.7°F and 6 days of extreme heat.

Focus on Wind and Heat

Lakeside winds can increase the chill, despite the 50-inch snowfall being low for the state. Homeowners should plan for warmer summers compared to the rest of Vermont.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Grand Isle County

via SoilByCounty

Vermont's Most Balanced pH Levels

Grand Isle has a pH of 5.89, which is the closest to the national median of 6.5 in the state. This makes it significantly less acidic than the Vermont state average of 4.86, favoring a wide variety of plants.

A Rich Silt and Clay Mix

The soil is a balanced mix of 41.7% sand, 41.6% silt, and 14.9% clay. This high silt and clay content helps the soil retain nutrients and moisture more effectively than sandier neighbors.

Stable Growth with Efficient Water Use

Organic matter is 7.26%, which is lower than the Vermont average of 29.01% but still triple the national average. The available water capacity is 0.174 in/in, providing a steady foundation for the local crops.

Island Soils for Orchards and Vines

The balanced texture suggests a versatile soil that isn't too sandy or too heavy. This stable base is excellent for the orchards and vineyards that are common throughout the island communities.

Fruit and Grapes in Zone 5a

The lake-influenced climate and Zone 5a make this an excellent spot for fruit trees and grapes. A soil score of 64.4 confirms that this is some of the most productive land in the state.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Grand Isle County

via LawnByCounty

Vermont's Easiest County for Lawns

Grand Isle County leads the state with a lawn difficulty score of 72.5, far surpassing the national average. Its unique island climate and hardiness zone 5a make it a premier location for lush turf.

Ideal Precipitation and Long Seasons

Annual precipitation of 35.0 inches sits right in the sweet spot for grass health without being excessive. The 2576 growing degree days provide a warm, long season that is rare for northern New England.

Best Soil Profile in the State

With a soil pH of 5.89, Grand Isle is closer to the ideal 6.0-7.0 range than any other county in this group. The balance of 14.9% clay and 41.7% sand provides a strong foundation for moisture and nutrient retention.

Stable Moisture Levels

Grand Isle currently faces 0% drought conditions and experienced only 10 weeks of drought in the past year. This consistency makes it much easier to maintain green grass through the peak of summer.

The Longest Growing Season

With the last frost on April 28 and the first on October 20, you have a massive window for lawn care. High-quality Kentucky Bluegrass will flourish here with standard maintenance.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grand Isle County's county score?
Grand Isle County, Vermont has a composite county score of 59 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 Grand Isle County rank among counties in Vermont?
Grand Isle County ranks #1 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 Grand Isle County, Vermont?
The median annual property tax in Grand Isle County is $4,927, with an effective tax rate of 1.36%. This earns Grand Isle County a tax score of 18.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Grand Isle County?
The median household income in Grand Isle County, Vermont is $90,625 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Grand Isle County earns an income score of 92.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Grand Isle County, Vermont a good place to live?
Grand Isle County scores 59/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #1 in Vermont. The best way to evaluate Grand Isle 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 Grand Isle 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.