The Burlington region is positioned perfectly as a great place to live for families, young couples, individuals or even retirees. The region's charm comes from being located between the Green Mountains of Vermont and Lake Champlain, stretching from Vermont to New York. The balance of urban amenities offered by a large city and the natural beauty of a rural state offer both current residents and future residents the opportunity to build a life in a place that is welcoming, down-to-earth, and full of activities and things to do for everyone. Known as one of the safest regions in the country, Burlington has a culture rooted in Vermont tradition, where hard-working residents take pride in maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Here, you can enjoy a fulfilling life whether exploring mountain trails, relaxing along the lake, or meeting new faces at local events and festivals. Each season brings new ways to connect with Vermont’s landscape, from leaf-peeping and apple picking in the fall to skiing in the winter, maple tapping in the spring, and boating and hiking in the summer. Here’s a closer look at why Burlington is such a great place to call home and how you can embrace its vibrant lifestyle.
Safety & Community
Vermont is ranked by Forbes as the safest state in the United States, with South Burlington recognized as the #1 safest city in the country, and Burlington at #4. While no place is without its challenges, the Burlington region maintains core principles that create a safe, welcoming environment. Communities here look out for one another, whether in bustling downtown neighborhoods or quieter suburbs of the region. Neighbors share a friendly, inclusive spirit, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support. Burlington’s culture embraces people of all backgrounds and beliefs, making Vermont a place where everyone feels welcome.
Work-Life Balance
Vermont is a fantastic place to live and work, particularly in Chittenden County and the Burlington region, where job opportunities abound for newcomers. Balancing work and life feels natural here, thanks to the region’s proximity to mountains, lakes, and major cities like Montreal, Boston, and New York. This easy access to the outdoors and nearby urban environments means residents can make the most of each day, enjoying life as if every day were the weekend. Employers understand the unique lifestyle that draws people to Vermont, and many encourage a balanced approach that values happiness and fulfillment. Here, you’ll find it easy to start the day with a morning hike, enjoy a waterfront stroll at lunch, or relax with a meal at one of the area’s outstanding local restaurants—all without compromising your career.
Annual Events, Arts, and More
The Burlington region hosts a vibrant lineup of events year-round, with each season bringing unique celebrations of local culture, community, and creativity. Spring kicks off with the Vermont City Marathon, when Burlington’s streets fill with thousands of runners competing in the 26.2-mile race. Spectators gather at the finish line on the Burlington Waterfront, cheering on friends and family as they aim to beat their personal bests. As summer begins, the Burlington Jazz Festival takes over the city with a week-long celebration of the region’s rich music scene. The season continues with the 4th of July fireworks, drawing crowds to the Waterfront for a spectacular show. Early fall brings the beloved South End Art Hop, a cultural event that celebrates local makers and artists in Burlington's South End Arts District. As winter approaches, the region lights up with festive holiday markets, Christmas displays, and seasonal events that bring the community together.
From weekly gatherings to annual festivals, Burlington has something to enjoy in every season.
Burlington's Hyperlocal Food Scene
Burlington embraces a truly hyperlocal ethos in every aspect of life, and the food scene is no exception. Local restaurants source their ingredients from nearby farms and purveyors, bringing the freshest seasonal produce directly to their patrons. The city’s farmers markets allow you to shop local and support these farms yourself, with offerings that shift seasonally but always showcase the region’s vibrant fruits and vegetables. The Burlington Farmers Market runs weekly throughout the summer, while CSA programs and farm shares are available year-round. The Intervale Center, Burlington's own community farm, is home to nonprofit farms that supply local restaurants and provide fresh produce for the whole community.
Burlington’s restaurant scene is remarkable, especially for a city of its size. From globally inspired flavors to New England classics, the diversity and creativity on local menus rival what you might find in larger culinary hubs. Dining here is a chance to taste Vermont itself, as chefs bring a distinct local flair to their dishes, offering a true farm-to-table experience that celebrates the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
In Burlington, VT, life is defined by a perfect balance of nature, community, and culture. This vibrant region between the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain offers more than just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive. With a strong sense of safety, a warm and inclusive community, and endless access to the great outdoors, Burlington allows its residents to enjoy an extraordinary quality of life.
From annual festivals and local art shows to breathtaking seasonal landscapes and outdoor adventures, Burlington has something for everyone, all year round. It’s a city that celebrates each season in its own unique way, inviting you to explore, savor, and connect with both the land and its people. Whether you're drawn to fresh, farm-to-table dining, the rhythm of a tight-knit arts scene, or the thrill of outdoor activities, Burlington seamlessly blends these elements to create a life full of richness and possibility.
Here, work-life balance is more than just an idea; it’s a lifestyle. Burlington’s sense of community, its commitment to safety, and its incredible natural surroundings make it an ideal place for families, individuals, and retirees alike. So, if you’re seeking a place that values authenticity, celebrates local culture, and makes every day feel like a new adventure, Burlington may just be the place for you. Welcome to a life well-lived, Vermont style.
