Cost of Living in Montpelier, Vermont in 2026

Montpelier, Vermont Cost of Living: Quick Takeaways

• Housing Costs: The average rent for a one-bedroom in Montpelier has increased steadily, reaching approximately $1,200 in 2025.
• Transportation Expenses: Public transit fares are affordable at $1.50 per ride with monthly passes costing around $50, and fuel costs near $3.00 per gallon.
• Healthcare Costs: Monthly employer-sponsored health insurance averages $150, while Silver plan premiums are about $500 per month.
• Income Levels: Median household income in Montpelier is projected at $80,000 in 2025.

Montpelier, Vermont offers a unique living experience with varied costs across housing, transportation, healthcare and more.

This article breaks down essential cost of living components to help you understand expenses in Montpelier for 2025.

1. Housing Costs in Montpelier, Vermont

Housing expenses are a major factor affecting cost of living in Montpelier.

• 2010: Approximately $900 per month for a one-bedroom rent
• 2015: Around $1,000
• 2020: Approximately $1,100
• 2024: Reached $1,169
• 2025: Projected to be $1,200

These figures illustrate a steady rise in rent costs over the years.

2. Homeownership and Real Estate Trends in Montpelier, Vermont

For home buyers, real estate prices have appreciated significantly:

• 2010: Median home price around $250,000
• 2015: Increased to about $275,000
• 2020: Around $300,000
• 2024: Jumped to $411,035
• 2025: Projected to be $420,000

This demonstrates the growing market demand and rising property values.

3. Transportation Expenses in Montpelier, Vermont

Transportation costs are affordable relative to national averages, with multiple commuting options:

• Public Transit: One-way fare about $1.50, monthly passes roughly $50
• Fuel: Approximately $3.00 per gallon in 2025
• Vehicle Maintenance: Annual average cost around $1,000

Costs can vary based on individual usage patterns and transportation modes.

4. Utility Costs in Montpelier, Vermont

Typical monthly utility costs for a standard apartment include:

• Electricity: $120.00
• Internet: $60.00
• Total Utilities: Approximately $180.00

Utility prices can depend on consumption levels and service providers.

5. Grocery and Food Expenses in Montpelier, Vermont

Grocery expenses tend to be slightly higher than the national average but reasonable for the region.

Monthly grocery costs per person average around $300. Dining out ranges from casual meals at about $15 to mid-range restaurant dishes at $50.

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6. Healthcare Costs in Montpelier, Vermont

Healthcare expenses involve monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

Employer-sponsored health insurance premiums average $150 monthly, while Silver plan premiums cost about $500 per month.

7. Educational Expenses in Montpelier, Vermont

Education costs vary depending on the institution and type of school:

• Public Schools: Usually no direct tuition fees
• Private Schools: Average annual tuition is approximately $10,000
• In-State University: Annual tuition averages $16,000

These expenses are key for families considering educational options.

8. Entertainment and Leisure in Montpelier, Vermont

Montpelier offers a variety of entertainment choices at moderate costs:

• Movie Ticket: About $12 each
• Gym Membership: Monthly cost roughly $40
• Dining Out: Mid-range restaurant meals usually $50

Annual entertainment expenses typically total around $2,000, with additional personal care services costing about $600 yearly.

9. Taxes and Miscellaneous Fees in Montpelier, Vermont

Montpelier residents face several taxes impacting overall cost of living:

• State Income Tax: Ranges from 3.35% to 8.75%
• Sales Tax: Total rate around 6%
• Property Tax Rate: Approximately 1.8%

These taxes play a crucial role in budgeting for residents.

10. Childcare and Family Expenses in Montpelier, Vermont

Families should consider typical childcare costs such as:

• Daycare Services: About $1,000 monthly
• After-School Programs: Roughly $300 per month
• Extracurricular Activities: Typically $100 monthly

These costs are essential considerations for budgeting family needs.

11. Clothing and Personal Care in Montpelier, Vermont

Monthly expenditures for clothing and personal care average:

• Clothing: $100
• Personal Care Products and Services: $50

These amounts may vary based on personal lifestyle and preferences.

12. Insurance Costs in Montpelier, Vermont

Insurance contributes significantly to living expenses:

• Health Insurance: Average monthly premium of $500 for standard plans
• Auto Insurance: Annual premium about $1,200
• Homeowners Insurance: Roughly $1,000 annually
• Renters Insurance: Approximately $200 annually

Insurance costs protect against various risks and legal requirements.

13. Miscellaneous Expenses in Montpelier, Vermont

Additional expenditures include:

• Entertainment: Around $2,000 annually
• Personal Care Services: Approximately $600 yearly
• Miscellaneous Goods and Services: Roughly $500 per year

These costs complement the overall spending profile of residents.

14. Income and Salaries in Montpelier, Vermont

Income trends help contextualize cost of living changes:

• 2010: Median household income near $60,000
• 2015: Increased to about $65,000
• 2020: Approximately $70,000
• 2023: Rose to $79,175
• 2025: Projected median income is $80,000

These figures show steady income growth amid rising living costs.

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15. Comparison with National Averages

Montpelier's cost of living compares to national averages as follows:

• Overall Cost: Approximately 15% higher than the national average
• Housing: Significantly elevated at roughly 31% above average
• Utilities: About 21% higher
• Food: Around 5% more expensive
• Healthcare: Roughly 6% above average
• Transportation: 7% higher
• Goods and Services: Approximately 8% above the national norm

These comparisons highlight where Montpelier is costlier and aid residents and newcomers in budgeting.

Our Methodology for Montpelier Cost of Living Figures

We utilize a diverse range of reputable sources including government data, local surveys, and trusted databases to compile these cost of living figures.

Where exact data is unavailable, we apply informed estimates to provide a comprehensive and practical overview of expenses in Montpelier.

Montpelier Cost of Living: Conclusion

The cost of living in Montpelier, Vermont in 2025 reflects a mix of rising housing costs, moderate transportation and utility expenses, and steady income growth.

While some costs are higher than national averages, residents enjoy a quality lifestyle bolstered by accessible services and amenities.

Understanding these cost factors is key for anyone planning to relocate or budget for life in Montpelier, offering valuable insights for informed financial planning.

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