Assisted living in Vermont costs approximately $8,597 per month on average (about $103,164 annually), based on statewide pricing trends and the standardized range-based modeling framework used across SeniorCareCostGuide. This places Vermont among the most expensive states for assisted living in the country, ranking 6th nationally behind Hawaii, Alaska, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Jersey.
Pricing varies across the state. Burlington and Chittenden County communities frequently exceed the statewide median due to stronger demand, proximity to regional healthcare systems, and higher labor costs, while smaller rural communities in southern and eastern Vermont offer more moderate entry-level pricing — though even the most affordable Vermont markets now exceed $7,500 per month on average.
Families comparing regional pricing may also want to review assisted living costs in New Hampshire and Maine.
Vermont Assisted Living Cost Snapshot (2026)
| Metric | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Statewide Median | ~$8,597/mo |
| Annual Equivalent | ~$103,164 |
| Lowest Major Markets | Middlebury, Bennington, Brattleboro |
| Highest Major Markets | Burlington, South Burlington, Rutland |
| Compared to National Median | Significantly Higher |
| Most Comparable States | Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut |
On This Page
- Average assisted living cost in Vermont
- Vermont monthly pricing
- City-by-city assisted living costs
- Regional cost patterns
- Medicaid coverage in Vermont
- Vermont vs other states
- Long-term cost planning
- How to compare Vermont communities
How Vermont Assisted Living Costs Compare Nationally
Vermont ranks as the 6th most expensive state for assisted living in the country, according to the CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey. At approximately $8,597 per month, Vermont exceeds the national median of $6,200 by more than $2,300 per month.
The national ranking based on CareScout 2025:
- Hawaii — $12,096/mo
- Alaska — $9,882/mo
- Massachusetts — $9,600/mo
- Connecticut — $9,118/mo
- New Jersey — $8,710/mo
- Vermont — $8,597/mo
Vermont’s high cost structure reflects a combination of an aging population, limited assisted living supply, workforce constraints, and the state’s broader high cost of living relative to its population size.
For a broader benchmark, see our guide to the national average assisted living cost.
What Is the Average Cost of Assisted Living in Vermont?
The CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey reports Vermont’s assisted living median at approximately $103,164 per year, about $8,597 per month.
Estimated Annual Cost
At $8,597/month:
| Period | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 Year | $103,164 |
| 3 Years | $309,492 |
| 5 Years | $515,820 |
These projections do not account for annual rate increases, which typically range between 3% and 7%.
How Much Does Assisted Living Cost Per Month in Vermont?
Most assisted living communities in Vermont charge between $6,450 and $10,750 per month, with a statewide median near $8,597 per month.
Monthly pricing varies by city, care level, and community type. Burlington and South Burlington communities frequently exceed $9,000 per month, while smaller rural markets in southern Vermont may fall closer to the lower end of the statewide range. Vermont’s small geographic market and limited facility supply mean pricing options are more constrained than in larger states.
Assisted Living Costs by City in Vermont
Vermont’s limited senior housing supply and regional economic differences create meaningful pricing variation across the state. The figures below reflect planning ranges consistent with the statewide median of approximately $8,597 per month.
| City | Low Range | High Range | Estimated Median | Annual Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burlington | $8,350 | $11,350+ | ~$9,850 | ~$118,200+ |
| South Burlington | $8,050 | $10,850+ | ~$9,450 | ~$113,400+ |
| Rutland | $7,700 | $10,400+ | ~$9,050 | ~$108,600+ |
| Montpelier | $7,300 | $9,900+ | ~$8,600 | ~$103,200+ |
| Barre | $7,100 | $9,600+ | ~$8,350 | ~$100,200+ |
| St Albans | $6,950 | $9,350+ | ~$8,150 | ~$97,800+ |
| Brattleboro | $6,700 | $9,100+ | ~$7,900 | ~$94,800+ |
| Bennington | $6,600 | $8,900+ | ~$7,750 | ~$93,000+ |
| Middlebury | $6,400 | $8,600+ | ~$7,500 | ~$90,000+ |
Burlington and surrounding Chittenden County communities consistently reflect the highest assisted living pricing in the state due to population concentration, stronger healthcare infrastructure, and greater demand for senior housing. Even the most affordable major market, Middlebury, now averages approximately $7,500 per month, well above the national median of $6,200.
Highest and Lowest Assisted Living Costs in Vermont
Highest-Cost Vermont Markets
- Burlington — The most expensive major market in the state, reflecting Chittenden County’s concentration of healthcare resources, stronger labor market competition, and highest population density.
- South Burlington — Reflects Burlington metro pricing dynamics with access to the same healthcare infrastructure and labor market.
- Rutland — Vermont’s second-largest city commands above-median pricing due to its role as a regional healthcare hub.
More Affordable Vermont Markets
- Middlebury — Generally the most moderate pricing among major Vermont markets, reflecting lower real estate costs and smaller market size.
- Bennington — Southern Vermont pricing reflects lower population density and more limited facility competition.
- Brattleboro — Southeastern Vermont’s largest community offers somewhat more moderate pricing than the Burlington corridor.
Regional Assisted Living Cost Patterns in Vermont
Assisted living pricing in Vermont varies meaningfully by region, largely tracking proximity to Burlington and the availability of healthcare infrastructure.
Northern Vermont (Burlington, South Burlington, St Albans)
Pricing: $6,950 to $11,350+ per month
The Burlington metro area consistently reflects the highest assisted living pricing in the state. As Vermont’s largest population center and primary healthcare hub, Burlington benefits from the University of Vermont Medical Center and strong regional healthcare networks. This concentration of healthcare resources supports above-median pricing and stable occupancy across the corridor.
Central Vermont (Montpelier, Barre, Rutland)
Pricing: $7,100 to $10,400+ per month
Central Vermont markets reflect pricing near or above the statewide median. Montpelier, as the state capital, and Rutland, as the second-largest city, both benefit from regional healthcare access that supports stable demand. Pricing in this corridor reflects Vermont’s overall high cost structure while remaining somewhat below Burlington levels.
Southern Vermont (Brattleboro, Bennington)
Pricing: $6,600 to $9,100+ per month
Southern Vermont generally offers the most moderate entry-level pricing in the state. Lower population density, more limited facility supply, and somewhat lower real estate costs contribute to more accessible pricing structures. Families comparing statewide options may find meaningful savings in these markets, though options are more limited than in the Burlington area.
Western Vermont (Middlebury)
Pricing: $6,400 to $8,600+ per month
Middlebury and surrounding Addison County communities offer some of the most moderate pricing in Vermont. The limited number of assisted living facilities in this region can constrain family choices, though the cost structure reflects Vermont’s rural western corridor more closely than the Burlington metro.
Vermont Senior Housing Market Trends (2026)
One of the Oldest State Populations in the Country: Vermont has one of the highest median ages and oldest populations in the United States, which creates sustained and growing demand for senior housing services. As Vermont’s senior population continues to age, demand for assisted living is expected to remain strong relative to the state’s limited supply of facilities.
Limited Supply Constrains Pricing Options: New assisted living development in Vermont is constrained by zoning requirements, small population markets, and higher construction costs. The combination of growing demand and limited supply expansion contributes to above-average pricing across the state and limits families’ ability to comparison-shop across multiple facilities in smaller markets.
Workforce Shortages Drive Ongoing Cost Pressure: Vermont’s relatively small healthcare workforce and rural geography create persistent caregiver recruitment and retention challenges. Wage competition for qualified caregiving staff continues to be a primary driver of annual rate increases across the state.
Annual Rate Increases Consistent with Regional Trends: Annual assisted living rate increases across Vermont typically range between 3% and 7%, consistent with broader New England trends. Given Vermont’s structural supply constraints and workforce challenges, increases at the higher end of this range are common in many markets.
What Does Assisted Living Typically Include in Vermont?
Assisted living communities in Vermont generally structure pricing into a base monthly rate plus additional care-related fees.
Typically Included in Base Monthly Cost
- Private or semi-private accommodations
- Meals and dining services
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Utilities
- Scheduled transportation
- Social and recreational programming
- Basic assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs)
Often Billed Separately
- Medication administration
- Higher levels of personal care
- Memory care services
- One-time move-in or community fees
- Specialized therapies or health monitoring
Communities frequently use tiered care models. As a resident’s health needs increase, monthly charges rise accordingly.
Assisted Living vs Other Care Options in Vermont
| Care Type | Average Monthly Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Assisted Living | ~$8,597 | Moderate daily support |
| Memory Care | ~$10,000 to $12,500 | Dementia or Alzheimer’s care |
| Nursing Home | ~$14,113 to $15,528/mo | Skilled medical supervision or 24/7 nursing care |
| Home Care | ~$8,580/mo | Aging in place with part-time support |
Vermont’s home care median of $8,580 per month (CareScout 2025) is nearly identical to the assisted living median of $8,597, making Vermont one of the few states where home care and assisted living are essentially cost-equivalent. Families considering home care should factor in that this figure assumes a standard weekly care schedule and does not include housing, meals, or around-the-clock supervision, which would push full-time home care significantly above assisted living costs.
What Affects Assisted Living Costs in Vermont?
- Location: Burlington and northern Vermont communities command higher rates due to healthcare infrastructure concentration and stronger demand.
- Level of Care Required: Increased assistance with daily activities raises monthly costs as residents transition to higher care tiers.
- Private vs. Shared Units: Private apartments typically cost more than shared accommodations.
- Memory Care: Specialized staffing and secure environments increase pricing relative to standard assisted living communities.
- Limited Supply: Vermont’s small number of assisted living facilities relative to demand limits pricing competition and supports above-average costs statewide.
- Workforce Constraints: Caregiver recruitment challenges in rural markets continue to drive wage pressure and operating cost increases.
- Regulatory Environment: Licensing standards administered by the Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living (DAIL) contribute to baseline operating expenses.
Does Medicaid Cover Assisted Living in Vermont?
Medicare does not cover long-term assisted living costs.
Vermont Medicaid may help cover certain care services through Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) programs administered by the Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living (DAIL). DAIL oversees Vermont’s long-term services and supports programs, which provide Medicaid-funded alternatives to institutional care for eligible older adults and individuals with disabilities.
Important considerations:
- Coverage applies primarily to approved personal care and support services
- Room and board costs are generally the resident’s financial responsibility
- Income and asset limits apply
- Functional eligibility criteria must be met
- Program availability may be subject to enrollment caps or waitlists
Families should confirm current eligibility details directly with Vermont DAIL or consult a qualified elder law advisor before making financial decisions.
How Vermont Assisted Living Costs Compare to Other States
Vermont ranks 6th most expensive nationally and exceeds all neighboring New England states except Massachusetts.
| State | Estimated Monthly Median | Relative to Vermont |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont | ~$8,597 | — |
| Massachusetts | ~$9,600 | Higher |
| Connecticut | ~$9,118 | Higher |
| New Hampshire | ~$8,025 | Lower |
| Maine | ~$8,205 | Lower |
| New York | ~$7,110 | Significantly Lower |
Vermont is now more expensive than both New Hampshire and Maine — its two most directly comparable neighboring states. For families with geographic flexibility, New Hampshire ($8,025/mo) or Maine ($8,205/mo) may offer meaningful savings while maintaining a similar rural New England lifestyle and healthcare access profile.
Compare Vermont Assisted Living Costs to Nearby States
- Massachusetts Assisted Living Costs
- New Hampshire Assisted Living Costs
- Maine Assisted Living Costs
- New York Assisted Living Costs
- Connecticut Assisted Living Costs
Long-Term Cost Planning in Vermont
Assisted living should be evaluated as a multi-year financial commitment. At $8,597 per month with a 5% annual increase, projected costs may look like:
| Year | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | $8,597/month |
| Year 2 | $9,027/month |
| Year 3 | $9,478/month |
| Year 4 | $9,952/month |
| Year 5 | $10,450/month |
Over five years, cumulative spending may exceed $570,000, excluding additional care needs or care level transitions.
Families should account not only for annual rate increases but also for potential care level escalations. Transitioning from assisted living to memory care in Vermont can increase monthly costs by 15% to 30%, potentially pushing costs above $12,000 per month in Burlington area communities.
Given Vermont’s structural supply constraints and workforce challenges, families should plan for rate increases at the higher end of the 3% to 7% range rather than assuming cost stabilization.
How to Plan for Assisted Living Costs in Vermont
Common financial strategies families use to fund assisted living in Vermont include:
- Home sale proceeds (Vermont real estate values have appreciated significantly in recent years)
- Long-term care insurance
- Veterans benefits (Aid and Attendance program)
- Retirement income and savings
- Bridge financing
Projecting 3 to 5 years of potential expenses provides a more realistic financial outlook, particularly when incorporating annual rate increases and possible care level transitions. Because Vermont’s facility supply is limited, families should also begin researching specific communities well in advance of anticipated need.
Who Vermont Assisted Living May Be Best Suited For
Vermont assisted living may appeal most to:
- Seniors with established community and family ties in Vermont who wish to remain close to home
- Retirees prioritizing Vermont’s quality of life, natural environment, and community character
- Families with access to sufficient home equity or long-term care insurance to manage one of the country’s higher-cost assisted living markets
- Seniors prioritizing access to the University of Vermont Medical Center and affiliated regional healthcare networks
- Families comparing Vermont with neighboring New Hampshire or Maine as lower-cost rural New England alternatives
For families without strong ties to Vermont, the cost differential versus neighboring states, particularly New York ($7,110/mo statewide) or New Hampshire ($8,025/mo), may make relocation a meaningful financial consideration.
How to Compare Assisted Living Communities in Vermont
Because Vermont has a relatively small number of assisted living facilities, families should begin researching options well in advance and request a detailed fee schedule from each community under consideration. Base monthly rates may not fully reflect higher care tiers, medication management, or memory care services.
When comparing communities, consider:
- What level of care is included in the base rate
- How care levels are assessed and priced over time
- Whether annual rate increases are capped or discretionary
- Staffing ratios and caregiver training standards
- Proximity to hospitals and specialty healthcare providers
- Contract structure (month-to-month vs. long-term agreements)
In Burlington and South Burlington communities, premium pricing does not always correlate directly with care quality. Some communities command elevated rates due to location and newer construction rather than materially different care delivery models.
Requesting a written breakdown of all potential fees helps families avoid unexpected cost escalations over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does assisted living cost per month in Vermont?
Most assisted living communities in Vermont range between $6,450 and $10,750 per month, with a statewide median near $8,597 per month based on the CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey.
Is Vermont one of the most expensive states for assisted living?
Yes. Vermont ranks 6th most expensive nationally at approximately $8,597 per month, behind Hawaii ($12,096/mo), Alaska ($9,882/mo), Massachusetts ($9,600/mo), Connecticut ($9,118/mo), and New Jersey ($8,710/mo), according to CareScout 2025. Vermont’s median exceeds the national average of $6,200 by more than $2,300 per month.
How does Vermont compare to neighboring states for assisted living?
Vermont is now more expensive than both New Hampshire ($8,025/mo) and Maine ($8,205/mo). Massachusetts ($9,600/mo) and Connecticut ($9,118/mo) are the only nearby states more expensive than Vermont. New York’s statewide median of $7,110/mo is significantly lower.
Is home care cheaper than assisted living in Vermont?
Essentially no. Vermont’s home care median of $8,580 per month (CareScout 2025) is nearly identical to the assisted living median of $8,597. Full-time around-the-clock home care would significantly exceed assisted living costs. Vermont is one of the few states where home care and assisted living are cost-equivalent on a standard hours basis.
What is the most expensive region in Vermont for assisted living?
Burlington and surrounding Chittenden County communities consistently reflect the highest assisted living pricing, with communities frequently ranging between $8,350 and $11,350+ per month.
Can Medicaid help pay for assisted living in Vermont?
Vermont Medicaid may provide limited assistance through HCBS programs administered by the Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living (DAIL), though room and board costs are generally not covered. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and demonstrated care needs. Families should confirm current program details with Vermont DAIL or a qualified elder law advisor.
Methodology
Pricing estimates are modeled using a range plus midpoint planning framework anchored to national industry data, including statewide median figures from the CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey (data collected July through November 2025, published March 2, 2026).
State comparisons reflect standardized median estimates used across SeniorCareCostGuide. Long-term projections are illustrative planning models based on consistent annual growth assumptions and are intended for planning purposes only.
For a detailed explanation of how pricing estimates are modeled, see our Assisted Living Cost Methodology.
Sources
- CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey (2025)
- State-level pricing estimates modeled using a standardized range and midpoint framework
- Local market observations based on publicly available senior living data and community-level pricing trends
Last reviewed: June 2026.