countyscore
35
County Score
Health 90.6Income & Jobs 62Soil Quality 61.5

County Report Card

About Windham County, Vermont

Significant Gap Below the National Median

With a score of 35.0, Windham County sits well behind the national median of 50.0. This indicates considerable room for improvement in composite livability compared to the rest of the country.

Trailing the Green Mountain State Average

Windham County ranks significantly below the Vermont state average of 44.6. Its composite performance highlights localized economic and safety challenges.

Exceptional Health Infrastructure and Stable Income

A Health Score of 90.6 is the county's standout feature, ensuring excellent access to care. The Income Score of 62.0 reflects a stable median household income of $68,021.

Safety and Tax Rates Impact Scores

The county faces a low Safety Score of 13.6 and a Tax Score of 4.4. High property taxes, with an effective rate of 1.874%, contribute to the overall fiscal pressure on residents.

A Haven for Dedicated Wellness Seekers

Windham County best serves individuals who prioritize high-quality healthcare above all else. It is a choice for those who are established enough to handle higher tax rates and lower safety scores.

Score breakdown

Tax4.4Cost18Safety13.6Health90.6Schools48.4Income62Risk43.1Water25Weather51.6
🏛4.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠18
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼62
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡13.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤90.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓48.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡43.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧25
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤51.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨61.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱16.1
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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Compare Windham County with Sutter County →Share on X

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Nearby counties

Cheshire County
New Hampshire
43.4
Bennington County
Vermont
33.9
Franklin County
Massachusetts
46.2
Sullivan County
New Hampshire
42.8
Windsor County
Vermont
42.5
Rutland County
Vermont
36.3
Hampshire County
Massachusetts
49.4
Washington County
New York
50.2

Deep Dives

Windham County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Windham County

via TaxByCounty

Windham County taxes rank near highest

Windham County's 1.874% effective tax rate is more than double the national median of 0.76%, placing it among America's highest-tax counties. The median annual property tax of $4,968 surpasses the national median by 85%, driven by Vermont's school-funding model and above-average home values of $265,100.

Windham ranks second highest in Vermont

Windham County's 1.874% effective rate is the second-highest among Vermont's 14 counties, trailing only Windsor County's 1.975%. The county's median tax of $4,968 is well above the state median of $4,648, reflecting its elevated rate and solid home values.

Windham tops most regional competitors

Windham County's 1.874% rate exceeds Orange County (1.753%), Rutland County (1.858%), and Washington County (1.868%), losing out only to Windsor County (1.975%) in southeastern Vermont. This makes Windham one of the pricier tax jurisdictions in the state.

Windham residents pay $4,968 annually

A homeowner with a median-value property of $265,100 in Windham County pays approximately $4,968 in annual property taxes. That's roughly $414 per month—the second-highest median tax bill in Vermont.

Consider appealing your assessment

Windham County homeowners paying premium property taxes should confirm their assessments reflect current market values, not inflated historical valuations. Successful tax appeals have saved many Windham residents hundreds of dollars annually in reduced property tax bills.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Windham County

via CostByCounty

Windham County stretches household budgets

Windham County residents spend 18.6% of income on rent—the state's highest ratio and above the national affordability standard of roughly 17%. With a median household income of $68,021, which trails the national median by $6,700, renters here face tighter affordability than most Americans.

The state's most strained housing market

Windham County has Vermont's highest rent-to-income ratio at 18.6%, signaling that renters dedicate more of their earnings to housing than peers anywhere else in the state. It's a cautionary tale: even in affordable Vermont, certain pockets demand careful financial planning.

Priced like urban markets, with rural incomes

Windham's $1,056 median rent exceeds the state average by $61 and trails only Washington County's $1,094. Yet with median incomes below state average, Windham residents pay urban-tier rents on smaller paychecks than peers in Washington or Orange counties.

Housing dominates the household budget

Renters spend $1,056 monthly on a $68,021 income, while homeowners carry $1,370 in costs—together representing roughly 19–24% of household earnings, the tightest ratio in Vermont. Residents have limited financial cushion for other priorities or emergencies.

Move carefully; budget tightly

Windham County offers scenic charm and community, but its high rent-to-income ratio means you should move here only if you have secure income or substantial savings. It's better suited to remote workers with six-figure salaries or retirees with fixed assets than to wage-dependent families.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Windham County

via IncomeByCounty

Windham falls short of national income median

Windham County's median household income of $68,021 is $6,734 below the national median of $74,755. While not among the lowest nationally, Windham earns less than the typical American household, placing it in the lower-middle income tier.

Fourth of six Vermont counties by income

Windham County ranks fourth among Vermont's counties, earning $7,022 below the state average of $75,043. This mid-range position places Windham squarely in the state's lower-income half, below Orange, Washington, and Windsor.

Trails Orange and Windsor by notable margins

Windham County households earn $68,021 compared to $77,328 in Orange and $75,247 in Windsor—income gaps of $9,307 and $7,226 respectively. This puts Windham among the state's lower-earning regions despite being in southern Vermont.

Highest rent burden in the state

At 18.6% of household income, Windham County has Vermont's highest rent-to-income ratio, signaling housing affordability pressure. The median home value of $265,100 strains budgets for households earning just above $68,000.

Housing-conscious planning opens wealth-building doors

Windham residents should explore first-time homebuyer programs and down payment assistance, which can help overcome affordability barriers. Prioritizing high-yield savings accounts and employer retirement benefits becomes critical given the tight housing-to-income ratio.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Windham County

via CrimeByCounty

Crime Rate Exceeds National Standards

Windham County reports 2,481.7 crimes per 100,000 residents, which is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. It maintains a safety score of 96.1 based on 2022 data from six agencies.

Lower Safety Scores Than State Average

The county’s 96.1 safety score falls below the Vermont average of 97.8. This indicates a higher frequency of reported incidents compared to the majority of Vermont's more rural counties.

Higher Incidents Than Northern Neighbors

Windham's crime rate of 2,481.7 is nearly double the rate of Windsor County at 1,277.8. It shares a similar profile with Rutland County, making them the two most active areas for crime in this group.

High Property Crime Impacts Rankings

A property crime rate of 2,217.8 per 100,000 people is the primary driver of Windham's total crime volume. The violent crime rate of 263.9 also exceeds the Vermont state average of 187.0.

Proactive Security for Local Residences

Given the higher rates of property crime, residents should prioritize home defense. Installing visible security cameras and securing outbuildings can help deter opportunistic theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Windham County

via HealthByCounty

Windham County extends life expectancy nationwide

At 78.6 years, Windham County residents live 2.5 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.1 years, positioning the county among America's healthiest communities. With 12.7% reporting poor or fair health—well below the national 17.3%—the county demonstrates strong overall wellness management.

Vermont's wellness leader by mental health access

Windham County's 78.6-year life expectancy tops Vermont's state average of 78.2 years, while its 842 mental health providers per 100K is the highest in the state by a significant margin. This exceptional behavioral health capacity positions Windham as the state's mental wellness hub.

Competitive life expectancy, dominant mental health

Windham County's 78.6-year life expectancy ranks second after Orange (79.1), while its 842 mental health providers per 100K dwarfs neighboring counties—Orleans has 320, Rutland 390, and Windsor 596. This makes Windham the clear leader in behavioral health access across the region.

Good coverage access with strong mental health support

Windham County's 5.3% uninsured rate slightly exceeds Vermont's 5.1% average, while 89 primary care providers per 100K deliver routine medical care. The county's exceptional 842 mental health providers per 100K ensure residents facing mental health or substance use challenges can access treatment.

Connect with Windham's health resources

Windham County residents have access to the state's best mental health provider network—842 per 100K—but it matters only if you're covered. Check your insurance status at healthcare.gov and connect with Vermont's Health Care Access Project if you need help finding affordable coverage.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Windham County

via SchoolsByCounty

Decentralized Learning in the South

Windham County supports 4,868 students across 27 public schools, including 20 elementary schools. The system is managed by 12 different districts, reflecting the county's commitment to local community control.

Focusing Resources on Student Growth

The county reports a graduation rate of 78.6% and a composite school score of 54.6. Investment currently stands at $10,293 per pupil, slightly under the state average as the county looks to boost academic outcomes.

Brattleboro’s Educational Reach

Windham Southeast Unified Union School District #96 is the dominant force, managing 9 schools and 2,339 students. Brattleboro Union High School is the county's largest school, enrolling 757 students.

Small-Scale Schools and Quiet Locales

Windham schools are small and intimate, with an average enrollment of just 187 students. The landscape is a mix of 18 rural and 9 town schools, offering both secluded and community-centric learning environments.

Settle in a Family-Friendly Community

For those seeking small class sizes and a peaceful lifestyle, Windham County's real estate market offers great value. Look for homes near Brattleboro or Bellows Falls to take advantage of these unique school settings.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Windham County

via RiskByCounty

Windham County faces elevated disaster risk

Windham County's composite risk score of 56.93 and "Relatively Low" rating exceed the national average substantially, reflecting significant exposure across multiple hazard types. The county's southern Vermont location subjects it to heightened hurricane and tornado risks.

Second-riskiest county in Vermont

Windham County's 56.93 score ranks it 56% above Vermont's state average of 36.44, making it the second-most hazardous county statewide. Only Windsor County (61.58) carries higher composite disaster risk in the state.

Riskier than most Vermont peers

Windham County's risk substantially exceeds Orange (26.43), Orleans (36.83), Rutland (50.48), and Washington (52.23) counties. Only Windsor County's 61.58 score surpasses Windham's exposure, making southern Vermont the state's highest-risk region.

Hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes dominate

Hurricane risk (74.55) and flood risk (71.28) represent Windham County's twin most serious threats, with tornado risk (40.01) emerging as a significant third concern. The county's southern exposure makes it particularly vulnerable to tropical storm systems and spring severe weather patterns.

Comprehensive multi-hazard insurance essential

Windham County residents need robust flood insurance, comprehensive hurricane coverage, and tornado-aware structural reinforcements to address the county's elevated risk portfolio. A professional home risk assessment, roof reinforcement, and safe room construction should be priority investments for disaster resilience.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Windham County

via WeatherByCounty

A High-Precipitation Southern Vermont Climate

While annual temperature data is limited for Windham County, its moisture profile is among the most intense in the region. The county receives 56.2 inches of precipitation annually, which is significantly higher than the national median. This southern Vermont location experiences heavy moisture from Atlantic weather systems.

The State's Wettest and Snowiest Corner

Windham County far exceeds the Vermont average of 44.2 inches of precipitation, recording 56.2 inches. It also leads the region in snowfall with a staggering 130.2 inches per year. These figures indicate a climate that is much more active and moisture-heavy than the state average.

Surpassing Neighbors in Snow and Rain

Windham County receives nearly 50 inches more snow annually than its neighbor, Windsor County, which records 82.6 inches. Its precipitation of 56.2 inches also dwarfs Windsor's 44.9 inches. This creates a uniquely demanding environment for road maintenance and flood planning.

Massive Snow Accumulations

Seasonal temperatures for Windham are not fully documented, but the 130.2 inches of snow define the winter. This extreme snowfall suggests long, cold winters with significant snowpacks. Residents should expect more frequent and heavier storms than in any other part of the state.

Prepare for Flooding and Record Snow

With over 56 inches of annual precipitation, robust drainage and flood insurance are critical considerations for property owners. The 130 inches of snow require professional-grade removal equipment and reinforced roof structures. Residents should prioritize high-quality waterproof gear for every season.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Windham County

via SoilByCounty

Southern Vermont's Acidic Ground

Windham County features an average pH of 4.56, much lower than the national median of 6.5. This acidic profile is characteristic of the southern Green Mountains and defines the local ecosystem. It closely matches the state's overall average acidity of 4.86.

A Versatile Silt and Sand Mix

The soil is composed of 41.8% sand and 30.1% silt, providing a medium that balances drainage and moisture retention. A low clay content of 5.3% means the soil is light and easy to till. This mix is well-suited for a variety of landscaping and agricultural uses.

High Carbon, Moderate Storage

Windham's organic matter sits at 22.55%, which is elite compared to the 2.0% national average. However, the water capacity of 0.203 in/in is slightly below the state average of 0.235 in/in. While the soil is rich in nutrients, it may require mulch to maintain consistent moisture during summer.

Light Soils and Quick Drainage

Specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are currently unavailable for this county. Given the 41.8% sand content, you can expect water to move relatively quickly through the soil profile. This is beneficial for preventing waterlogged roots but may lead to faster nutrient leaching.

A Longer Season in Zone 5b

Windham County enjoys hardiness zone 5b, offering a slightly longer growing season than much of Vermont. This allows for a wider variety of perennials and even some more sensitive fruit trees. Use the high organic matter to your advantage and start a vibrant home garden this spring.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Windham County

via LawnByCounty

Vermont’s Most Challenging Lawn Conditions

Windham County faces a difficult road with a lawn score of just 16.1, the lowest among its neighbors. Despite being in the slightly warmer Hardiness Zone 5b, various environmental factors make turf maintenance a significant struggle.

Excessive Rainfall and Limited Data

The county receives a massive 56.2 inches of annual precipitation, which exceeds the ideal range and can lead to saturated roots or runoff issues. While specific temperature and GDD data are limited, the high rainfall is a primary driver of local lawn management.

Acidic Soil in a Wet Climate

Soil pH sits at 4.56, requiring heavy lime applications to make the environment hospitable for grass. With 41.8% sand, nutrients from fertilizers may leach away quickly during the county's heavy rain events.

Persistent Dryness Despite High Rain

Paradoxically, 100% of the county is currently abnormally dry after 37 weeks of drought conditions this past year. This volatility makes consistent irrigation planning difficult for homeowners who may swing from floods to dry spells.

Zone 5b Planting Strategies

Take advantage of the Zone 5b climate by using robust Turf-Type Tall Fescues that can handle both moisture and dry periods. Because local frost dates are unavailable in this dataset, monitoring local soil temperatures for 50-60°F is the best way to time your seeding.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Windham County's county score?
Windham County, Vermont has a composite county score of 35 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 Windham County rank among counties in Vermont?
Windham County ranks #13 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 Windham County, Vermont?
The median annual property tax in Windham County is $4,968, with an effective tax rate of 1.87%. This earns Windham County a tax score of 4.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Windham County?
The median household income in Windham County, Vermont is $68,021 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Windham County earns an income score of 62/100 on CountyScore.
Is Windham County, Vermont a good place to live?
Windham County scores 35/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #13 in Vermont. The best way to evaluate Windham 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 Windham 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.