Police Officer in Bennington CDP, VT

The Salary Picture: Where Bennington CDP Stands

Bennington CDP is a small town with a big sense of community, and that extends to its police force. The pay here is solid for the region and reflects the town's commitment to public safety. The median salary for a Police Officer in Bennington CDP is $76,595/year. That breaks down to an hourly rate of $36.82/hour. It's a small but steady increase over the national average, which sits at $74,910/year. For context, the entire metro area—which includes the surrounding towns of Bennington County—has only 17 jobs in this category, so every position is vital and competition can be local but tight.

Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to earn as you gain experience on the force:

Experience Level	Estimated Salary Range (Annual)	Key Responsibilities & Notes
Entry-Level	$62,000 - $70,000	Patrol duties, initial training, probationary period. This is the starting point for most recruits after academy.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$72,000 - $80,000	Field Training Officer (FTO), specialized patrol, community engagement roles. You'll be approaching the median salary here.
Senior Officer (8-15 years)	$78,000 - $87,000	Lead roles on shift, potential for detective promotions, union leadership. Solid earnings with local cost of living.
Expert/Sergeant	$85,000+	Supervisory roles, specialty units (K-9, SWAT), administrative positions. Top earners in the department.

Insider Tip: Salaries are often tied to the town's union contract. Pay increases are typically negotiated every few years, so your take-home can rise faster than the base rate during active bargaining periods.

When you compare this to other cities in Vermont, Bennington CDP holds its own. It’s not the highest in the state—Burlington and Montpelier pay more due to higher cost of living—but it’s also not the lowest. For a town of its size (metro population of 8,888), the 3% 10-year job growth rate, while modest, indicates stability rather than explosive growth. This isn't a place where you'll see dozens of new openings every year, but the existing jobs are secure and the community values its police.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get down to brass tacks. A median salary of $76,595 sounds good on paper, but what does it mean for your daily life in Bennington? After federal, state, and FICA taxes, a single filer can expect to take home roughly $58,000-$60,000 annually, or about $4,800-$5,000 per month. The big variable? Housing.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Bennington CDP is $1,343/month. That's a significant chunk of your take-home pay. Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown:

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$1,343	A decent, modern apartment. Older units can be found for under $1,200, but they're rare.
Utilities (Elec/Gas/Internet)	$200 - $250	Vermont winters mean higher heating costs. Budget for $250 in winter, $150 in summer.
Groceries	$400 - $500	For one person. Bennington has a Price Chopper and a Walmart, but local farm shares can add cost.
Car Payment/Insurance	$400 - $600	A reliable vehicle is a must. Insurance rates are average for Vermont.
Gasoline	$150 - $200	Commutes are short in town, but if you live in a neighboring hilltown, costs rise.
Health Insurance (if not fully covered)	$150 - $300	Check the town's benefits package. It's typically good, but shared costs apply.
Discretionary/Savings	$1,300+	This leaves room for entertainment, savings, and retirement contributions.

Can they afford to buy a home? It's a challenge, but possible. The median home price in Bennington CDP is around $275,000 - $300,000. With a $76,595 salary, a 20% down payment ($55,000-$60,000) is a steep hurdle. Most officers buy in surrounding towns like North Bennington or Pownal where prices are lower, or they purchase with a spouse's income. The Cost of Living Index of 107.5 (US avg = 100) means everything from groceries to healthcare is about 7.5% more expensive than the national average, which further squeezes the budget.

Insider Tip: Many officers rent for their first 2-3 years to get a feel for the area and save for a down payment. Look for rentals in the "Old Bennington" area for historic charm, but the Southside has more modern, affordable apartments.

Where the Jobs Are: Bennington CDP's Major Employers

Bennington is a hub for the region, and the police department is the primary employer for law enforcement. However, the broader employment landscape gives context to the community you're serving.

1. Bennington Police Department: The main employer. It's a full-service department with patrol, detective, and administrative divisions. They typically hire 1-2 new officers a year, often to replace retirees. Hiring is posted on the town's official website.

2. Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC): Located on Route 7, this is the largest employer in the county. While they have their own security, they frequently coordinate with local police. An officer with medical training or interest in crisis intervention can find collaborative opportunities here.

3. Bennington College: A private liberal arts college with a campus just north of town. Campus safety is managed by its own security department, but they work closely with town police, especially for events and student safety. This is a potential side-gig or networking point.

4. Bennington County Sheriff's Office: Based in Manchester (15 mins away), the Sheriff's Office covers the unincorporated areas and provides mutual aid. They sometimes have openings for deputies, which is a slightly different path but with shared jurisdiction.

5. Local Manufacturing & Retail: Companies like Cabot Creamery (in nearby Cabot) and The Home Depot in Bennington are major employers. They rely on police for traffic control, security, and emergency response.

Hiring Trends: The department's hiring is closely tied to the town's budget and retirement wave. With a 3% 10-year job growth, opportunities will be steady but not frequent. The best way to get in is to be on the eligibility list for the Vermont Police Officers' Training Course (VPOST). Word on the street is that the department values local candidates who understand the community's unique character—part industrial town, part historic village, part gateway to the Green Mountains.

Getting Licensed in VT

Becoming a police officer in Vermont requires specific state certification. The process is rigorous but straightforward.

Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Must be at least 21 years old.
• Possess a high school diploma or GED.
• Possess a valid driver's license.
• Pass a comprehensive background check, including criminal history, credit, and driving record.
• Pass physical and psychological evaluations.
• Successfully complete the Vermont Police Officers' Training Course (VPOST) at the Vermont Police Academy in Pittsford.

The Process & Timeline:

1. Apply & Test (Months 1-3): Apply to the Bennington PD or another agency. If they sponsor you, you'll take written and physical agility tests (often the Cooper Standard).
2. Background & Polygraph (Months 2-4): An intensive investigation into your character and past.
3. VPOST Academy (Months 5-12): A 24-week, live-in academy. This is the biggest hurdle. You must pass all academic and physical tests. Cost: It's free if you're sponsored by an agency (they pay your salary). If you self-sponsor, the cost is approximately $10,000-$12,000 for tuition, room, and board.
4. Field Training (Months 13-15): Upon graduation, you'll undergo a 12-16 week Field Training Officer (FTO) program with your hiring department.

Insider Tip: The Vermont Police Academy is intense. It's designed to break you down and build you back up as a team. Prior military service or experience in high-stress jobs is a huge advantage. The Bennington PD often looks favorably on candidates who have already completed the VPOST academy independently, as it shows commitment.

Best Neighborhoods for Police Officers

Where you live affects your lifestyle and commute. Bennington CDP is small, but each area has a distinct feel.

1. Old Bennington: The historic heart. Quaint, walkable, with beautiful homes and the Bennington Monument. Commute to the PD is under 5 minutes. Rent for a 1BR: $1,300 - $1,600. Best for those who love history and a quiet, village atmosphere.

2. Southside (Route 7 Corridor): The commercial and residential hub. Modern apartment complexes, shopping centers (Price Chopper, Walmart), and easy access to Route 7. Commute is 5-10 minutes. Rent for a 1BR: $1,200 - $1,400. The most practical choice for a single officer seeking convenience and value.

3. North Bennington (Village): A separate, smaller village just north of CDP. More residential, with a strong community feel. Home to Bennington College. Rent for a 1BR: $1,100 - $1,350. A 10-minute commute. Great for those seeking a tight-knit neighborhood feel.

4. Pownal (South of Bennington): A rural town with a lower cost of living. More space, longer driveways, and a true country feel. Rent for a 1BR: $900 - $1,200. Commute is 15-20 minutes. Ideal for officers who want privacy and don't mind the drive.

5. Shaftsbury (East of Bennington): Another neighboring town with a mix of rural and small-town living. Good schools, slightly longer commute. Rent for a 1BR: $1,000 - $1,300. A good balance between affordability and community amenities.

Insider Tip: Parking at the police station is not an issue, so you can live anywhere in the area without worrying about that daily stress. Focus on your lifestyle preference—village life vs. country living.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A career in Bennington is about depth, not vertical leaps. The department is small, so promotions to sergeant or lieutenant are significant and competitive. However, there are valuable specialty paths.

• Specialty Premiums: While Bennington may not have large stipends like big city departments, officers can earn extra pay for certifications like:
  • K-9 Handler: If a position opens.
  • Detective: Based on investigative skills and seniority.
  • Accident Reconstruction: Requires additional training.
  • SWAT/ERT: Regional team participation (Southern Vermont Regional SWAT Team).
• Advancement Paths: The typical path is Patrol Officer -> Field Training Officer (FTO) -> Detective or Sergeant. The Bennington PD is known for promoting from within. Leadership roles require strong community ties, excellent reports, and peer respect.
• 10-Year Outlook: With a 3% job growth, the department will likely see 1-2 retirements per year. This creates a slow but steady pipeline for advancement. The key is to become indispensable—get involved in community events, school programs, and specialized training. The small size of the department means your reputation is everything.

Insider Tip: Consider taking on the role of School Resource Officer (SRO) if it becomes available. It's a high-visibility position that builds incredible community trust and can fast-track you into leadership consideration.

The Verdict: Is Bennington CDP Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Stable, State-Supported Salary: $76,595 median is strong for the area.	Limited Housing Affordability: Rent eats a large portion of take-home pay.
Strong Community Connection: Small-town vibe means you know the people you serve.	Slower Career Advancement: Fewer specialty units and promotions than a large city.
Natural Beauty & Recreation: Gateway to the Green Mountains for hiking, skiing.	Cost of Living: At 107.5, it's above the national average, squeezing the budget.
Low Crime Rate (for the region): Less high-stress, life-threatening calls than urban areas.	Limited Nightlife/Scene: It's a quiet town; not for those seeking a bustling social scene.
Good Benefits: Vermont public sector jobs typically have solid health and retirement packages.	Small Job Market: Only 17 jobs in the metro area; getting that first position is competitive.

Final Recommendation: Bennington CDP is an excellent choice for a police officer who values community over chaos, nature over nightlife, and stability over rapid promotion. It's best suited for singles or couples without children (due to rental costs), and for those with a realistic plan for homeownership. If you're looking to be a true part of a town, not just an officer passing through, Bennington offers that rare opportunity. However, if your primary goal is high earnings and a fast-tracked career in a major metro, you should look toward Vermont's larger cities or neighboring states.

FAQs

Q: Is it hard to get hired by the Bennington Police Department?
A: Yes, but it's more about timing than difficulty. With only 17 jobs in the metro area and a 3% growth rate, openings are infrequent. The key is to be on the Vermont Police Officers' Training Course (VPOST) eligibility list first. Apply to Bennington and other agencies in the region (like Manchester, Rutland) to maximize your chances.

Q: Do I need to live in Bennington CDP to work there?
A: No. Many officers live in surrounding towns like Pownal, shaftsbury, or even Manchester (30 mins away) for more affordable housing. The commute is easy, and the department doesn't have a residency requirement.

Q: What's the biggest challenge for new officers in Bennington?
A: The biggest challenge is often the cost of living relative to the salary. The $1,343 average rent on a $76,595 salary requires careful budgeting. Additionally, the small-town dynamic means personal and professional lives can blur; discretion is paramount.

Q: Are there opportunities for overtime?
A: Yes, but it's not as abundant as in large cities. Overtime is available for court appearances, special events (like the Bennington Battle Day parade), and training. It can add a few thousand dollars a year but is not a reliable primary supplement.

Q: What's the best way to prepare for the VPOST academy?
A: Get in peak physical condition—focus on running, strength, and obstacle course drills. Study Vermont statutes and police procedure. Mental preparation is just as important; the academy is designed to be stressful. Connect with current VT officers for insights.