Salaries in South Burlington, VT
What every job actually pays — cost-of-living adjusted
Updated: February 2026 · 27 occupations · BLS + Census data
You might assume a small city like South Burlington, Vermont, wouldn’t be a hotspot for high-paying tech and marketing roles, but you’d be wrong. This town of just over 20,000 people punches way above its weight, with a median household income that’s nearly 30% higher than the national average. It’s a quiet economic engine in a very green corner of New England.
Here’s the thing about living here: you don’t get the bargain some expect. The cost of living index sits exactly at the national average—100.0—but that single number hides a lot. A median household income of $97,229 sounds great until you see the average one-bedroom rent is $1,441 a month. It’s not a steal; it’s a fair fight. Your paycheck goes a typical distance, no farther. The real advantage isn’t that your dollar stretches further; it’s that you can earn a strong salary without the brutal cost pressures you’d find in Boston or even nearby Burlington proper.
The economy here runs on a few key things. Tech and professional services are huge, thanks in part to the spillover from the University of Vermont and a growing startup scene. You’ll also find major employers like Ben & Jerry’s and the University of Vermont Medical Center anchoring the job market. Construction and project management are booming, too, as the area sees steady, careful growth. If you’re in software development, marketing management, or healthcare, you’re in the sweet spot.
But let’s be honest: the catch is that wages, while high, haven’t been sprinting ahead of costs. The 2.3% unemployment rate shows a tight job market, which helps, but it’s not a free-for-all. This city works best for skilled professionals—especially those with a bachelor’s degree or higher, which 65% of residents have—who want a high quality of life without sacrificing career ambition. It’s less ideal for those in lower-wage service jobs or anyone looking for a dramatic cost-of-living arbitrage.
Below, the data will break down exactly what the top-paying jobs are and what they mean for your wallet in this specific Vermont market.
🏆 Top 5 Highest-Paying Jobs in South Burlington
Ranked by raw salary. See COL-adjusted figures in the full table below.
Marketing Manager
Pharmacist
Software Developer
Construction Manager
Project Manager
📋 Complete Salary Guide — All 27 Occupations in South Burlington
COL-Adjusted Salary = Raw salary divided by the cost of living index (100/100). Higher = more real purchasing power. This city's COL is above the US average.
| # | Occupation ↕ | Raw Salary ↕ |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marketing Manager | $157,620 |
| 2 | Pharmacist | $136,030 |
| 3 | Software Developer | $127,260 |
| 4 | Construction Manager | $108,210 |
| 5 | Project Manager | $101,280 |
| 6 | Physical Therapist | $99,710 |
| 7 | Financial Analyst | $99,010 |
| 8 | Web Developer | $92,750 |
| 9 | Dental Hygienist | $87,530 |
| 10 | Accountant | $86,080 |
| 11 | Registered Nurse | $86,070 |
| 12 | Data Analyst | $83,360 |
| 13 | Police Officer | $74,910 |
| 14 | Human Resources Specialist | $67,650 |
| 15 | Elementary School Teacher | $63,670 |
| 16 | Plumber | $63,350 |
| 17 | Paralegal | $62,750 |
| 18 | Electrician | $61,550 |
| 19 | Real Estate Agent | $61,480 |
| 20 | Graphic Designer | $61,340 |
| 21 | Firefighter | $57,120 |
| 22 | Carpenter | $56,920 |
| 23 | HVAC Technician | $55,670 |
| 24 | Heavy Truck Driver | $53,090 |
| 25 | Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $50,000 |
| 26 | Welder | $49,590 |
| 27 | Medical Assistant | $38,270 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics. COL Index from C2ER/ACCRA.
🏙️ Living Costs in South Burlington
🧮 Can You Afford to Live in South Burlington?
Use our Salary Reality Check to see if your specific income covers housing, taxes, and expenses in South Burlington. Enter your salary and see exactly how far your money goes.
❓ South Burlington Salary FAQ
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📝 Editor's Verdict: Is South Burlington Worth It?
Here’s my honest verdict: South Burlington is solid but not a jackpot. With an average salary of $79,343 and a COL index at 100.0, you’re looking at a stable, middle-of-the-road deal. Rent at $1,441/month is manageable, but don’t expect to get rich quick. The star here is the Marketing Manager role, pulling in $157,620—best in raw pay and COL-adjusted value. If you’re in tech or healthcare, you’ll do fine, but tradespeople might find better leverage in bigger cities. For anyone considering the move, my advice: lock in a job before you pack. The market’s competitive, and you don’t want to end up underpaid in a place that’s pricey enough to keep you comfortable but not extravagant. South Burlington works if you play it smart.