Vermont, with its natural landscape and close-knit communities, has emerged as the top choice for people looking to relocate. According to United Van Lines’ annual National Movers Study, Vermont has been the most sought-after state for movers for the past three years. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this trend and uncover what makes Vermont so appealing to individuals and families.
Low Crime Rates and Sense of Security
One of the primary reasons people are flocking to Vermont is the state’s reputation for safety and security. U.S. News and World Report ranks Vermont among the top states for low violent and property crime rates. This sense of security is increasingly attractive to families and individuals seeking a peaceful and secure environment.
Ashley Vincent, a real estate expert and owner of Home Investors, emphasizes that Vermont offers a sense of belonging and security that is hard to find elsewhere. The state’s small-town charm creates a close-knit atmosphere, fostering friendly and supportive communities. Vincent notes, “For those seeking a sense of belonging and a break from the fast-paced urban lifestyle, Vermont offers the warmth of community connections and the unhurried pace of life.”
Lifestyle Change and Remote Work Opportunities
Another driving factor behind Vermont’s popularity is the desire for a lifestyle change. Approximately 20% of inbound movers to Vermont cited a lifestyle change as their motivation. This is particularly significant in an era of increasing remote work, where individuals are looking to escape fast-paced employment hubs in exchange for a more relaxed and fulfilling lifestyle.
Vermont’s lower population density, coupled with comparable home prices, high-quality education, and low crime rates, make it an attractive option for those seeking a change of scenery. As remote work becomes more prevalent, people are finding Vermont’s relaxed environment and natural beauty to be a perfect fit for their desired lifestyle.
Close Proximity to Family
Family plays a crucial role in influencing people’s decisions to move to Vermont. Nearly 30% of inbound movers chose Vermont to be closer to their family members. The state’s welcoming communities and strong sense of kinship make it an ideal place to build and strengthen family bonds.
Vermont’s small-town charm and friendly atmosphere create a nurturing environment for families. The state’s emphasis on community connections and the availability of recreational activities for all ages make it an appealing destination for families looking to settle down.
Remote Work and Real Estate Market
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the trend of remote work, leading to an influx of people moving to Vermont. Mellisa Levis, owner of a family resort hotel in Manchester, has witnessed a steady increase in the number of people relocating to her town since the pandemic began. Remote workers, who can now live full-time in Vermont, have contributed to the surge in real estate demand.
Levis explains how many visitors to her hotel end up falling in love with Vermont and eventually purchase homes in the area. The low real estate inventory in recent years is partly due to remote workers seeking a change and finding Vermont to be an ideal place to settle.
Affordability and Quality of Life
Vermont’s affordability compared to other states with similar amenities is another significant factor attracting people to the Green Mountain State. Chenise Hinds, a licensed realtor, home stager, and interior designer, shares her experience of moving to Vermont. She highlights the lower housing costs compared to her previous location, allowing her to find a cute little cottage within her price range.
Despite the occasional snowstorms, Hinds appreciates the sense of community in Vermont. Neighbors are always quick to help each other during challenging weather conditions, reinforcing the state’s reputation for close-knit communities.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
Vermont’s natural beauty is renowned, especially during the fall season when the state transforms into a stunning display of vibrant colors. Oz Moving & Storage General Manager, Nancy Zafrani, mentions how many residents from neighboring states visit Vermont during the fall to witness the breathtaking foliage.
The state offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, world-class skiing, and winter sports. For outdoor enthusiasts, Vermont is a haven of recreational opportunities. Its emphasis on an active and adventurous lifestyle attracts individuals who find joy in the great outdoors.
The Appeal of Rural Living
Jim Olenbush, a design expert and owner of a tech-focused real estate brokerage firm, believes that affordability and rural living are major draws for individuals considering a move to Vermont. The ability to stretch one’s budget and raise a family in a quiet place with ample green space is highly appealing. In a busy world, simpler pleasures like breathing fresh air under big open skies have become increasingly attractive to many.
Olenbush also notes that high living costs and dense development in other states have pushed people away, prompting them to seek greener pastures in Vermont. The desire for freedom, the ability to craft their own story, and prioritize what truly matters to them have become driving forces behind relocation decisions.
Conclusion
Vermont’s natural beauty, close-knit communities, low crime rates, and affordable living make it an increasingly popular choice for movers. Families seeking a sense of security and belonging, individuals looking for a lifestyle change, and remote workers in search of a relaxed environment are all finding their place in the Green Mountain State. With its emphasis on community connections and the abundance of outdoor activities, Vermont offers a unique and fulfilling living experience for those who choose to call it home.