South Burlington: The Data Profile (2026)

South Burlington presents a distinct statistical outlier in the post-remote economic landscape. With a population of 20,488, it functions as a high-income satellite hub rather than a major metropolis. The median income stands at $97,229, a significant +30.4% deviation above the US median of $74,580. This wealth concentration is driven by an exceptionally educated workforce, where 65.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, nearly double the national average of 33.1%.

The statistical target demographic is the "Remote-First Professional." With commute times losing priority over lifestyle, this group prioritizes the 87.3/100 health score and low density over urban proximity. They are seeking to leverage high remote salaries into a lifestyle arbitrage, capitalizing on the 2.6% unemployment rate which signals a labor market dominated by stable, white-collar sectors.

Cost of Living Analysis

While the aggregate Cost of Living index (100 = US Average) appears balanced at 101.7%, the underlying components reveal a "Tale of Two Economies." Essential goods like Groceries (96.3) and Transportation (96.3) are slightly below average, providing relief. However, discretionary spending is heavily taxed; both Restaurants and Healthcare sit at an index of 121.8, meaning a meal out or a medical visit costs 21.8% more than the national median. The most critical variable is energy, where electricity costs 21.9 cents/kWh, a staggering 36.9% premium over the US average of 16.0 cents/kWh.

Disposable Income Analysis:
Given the median household income of $97,229, the monthly gross income is approximately $8,102. After estimated taxes (Federal/State/FICA) of roughly 25%, take-home pay is $6,076. A family of 4 faces expenses of $6,890, creating a deficit of $814 per month. This indicates that the median income is insufficient for a single-income household to thrive. South Burlington remains viable only for dual-income households or those earning significantly above the median.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market is the primary driver of the relocation calculus. The median home price sits at $525,000, which is 31.3% higher than the US average of $400,000. However, the Price per Square Foot ($310) is only 13.9% above the national average ($272), suggesting that homes are larger or of higher build quality. Renting remains a viable, albeit expensive, alternative, with 1BR units averaging $1,441.

Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
The Rent-to-Price ratio is approximately 3.3% ($1,441 rent vs $525,000 home). In a high-interest-rate environment (projected 6.5-7.0% in 2026), the monthly mortgage payment on a median home with 20% down would exceed $2,800, nearly double the rent. Renting is the financially superior option in the short-to-medium term, protecting capital liquidity and avoiding the +31.3% home price premium.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

South Burlington benefits from the "Hybrid Stability" model. The 2.6% unemployment rate is a critical indicator of economic health, sitting 1.4 percentage points below the national average of 4.0%. The local economy is anchored by the University of Vermont Medical Center and tech firms that have adopted hybrid schedules.

• RTO Impact: With 65.1% of the population college-educated, the workforce is largely knowledge-based. Office utilization is estimated at 40-50% on peak days (Tues/Wed/Thurs).
• Commute: Average commute times have dropped to 18 minutes, significantly lower than the national average of 27 minutes.
• Industry Stability: Healthcare and Education sectors provide a recession-resistant floor, though the tech sector faces minor volatility.

Quality of Life Audit

South Burlington excels in preventative health metrics. The aggregate Health Score of 87.3/100 is driven by lifestyle factors that are statistically superior to the US baseline. Obesity rates are 22.3% (vs 31.9% US) and smoking rates are 7.4% (vs 14.0% US).

• Safety: Violent crime is 110 per 100k residents (US avg: 388). Property crime is 1,650 per 100k (US avg: 1,958). It is statistically 64% safer regarding violent incidents than the average US city.
• Air Quality: The AQI of 28 and PM2.5 of 4.5 µg/m³ are world-class, driven by low industrial density and prevailing winds from Lake Champlain.
• Schools: The South Burlington School District consistently ranks in the top 5% of Vermont for standardized test scores.
• Weather: Currently 45.0°F with a high of 45°F. Residents must be prepared for 80+ inches of annual snowfall and a distinct lack of sunlight from November to March.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Health & Safety: Unbeatable health metrics (87.3 score) and violent crime rates 72% lower than the national average.
• Labor Market: A 2.6% unemployment rate ensures high job security for the educated workforce.
• Air Quality: PM2.5 levels of 4.5 µg/m³ offer a respiratory advantage over 95% of US urban areas.

Cons:

• Housing Premium: Home prices are $125,000 above the national median.
• Energy Costs: Electricity at 21.9¢/kWh creates a recurring "wealth tax" on residents.
• Income Requirement: A single earner at the median income ($97,229) faces a monthly deficit if supporting a family.

Final Recommendation:
South Burlington is a Buy for the "Dual-Income / No Kids" or "Dual-Income / One Kid" demographic who can absorb the +31.3% housing premium and the 21.8% healthcare surcharge in exchange for elite health outcomes and safety. It is a Rent for single professionals or those prioritizing maximum disposable income, as the rental market offers a 9.9% discount relative to national rents.

FAQs

1. What is the minimum salary needed to live comfortably in South Burlington?
For a single adult, a take-home salary of $5,000/month is recommended to cover the $3,211 estimated expenses with savings. For a family, a household income of at least $130,000 is required to maintain a positive cash flow above the $6,890 monthly burn rate.

2. How does the value proposition compare to Burlington proper?
South Burlington offers a 1.7% lower housing index than Burlington city proper, with marginally better school districts and newer housing stock, while maintaining immediate access to the city center via a 10-minute drive.

3. Are the safety statistics accurate for a growing city?
Yes. Despite growth, the violent crime rate remains stable at 110 per 100k. This is a statistical anomaly for a city hosting a major university and airport, largely due to zoning laws that separate residential and high-density commercial areas.

4. When is the best time to relocate?
The optimal window is May through September. This avoids the heavy snowfall season (Nov-Mar) and aligns with the peak real estate inventory period. Relocating in winter will expose you to the 45°F lows and potential utility bills exceeding $250/month for heating.