What it's like working in Vermont
Vermont boasts a diverse economy with various industries contributing to its growth. The state's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was $31.15 billion in 2020, with an average annual growth rate of 2.4% over the past five years.
The leading industries in Vermont include manufacturing, healthcare, education, professional services, and tourism. These sectors provide a wide range of job opportunities for individuals with different skill sets and qualifications. The state's economic policies favor innovation and sustainability, making it an attractive destination for businesses looking to thrive in a well-regulated environment.
Major cities
- Burlington: Nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain, Burlington is Vermont's largest city and a vibrant hub for commerce, education, and culture.
- South Burlington: Located adjacent to Burlington, South Burlington offers a mix of residential neighborhoods and commercial areas, providing a balance between work and life.
- Rutland: Known as the "Marble City," Rutland is an industrial center with a rich history and a growing arts and entertainment scene.
- Barre: Situated in central Vermont, Barre is renowned for its granite quarries and is often referred to as the "Granite Capital of the World."
- Montpelier: As the state capital, Montpelier combines small-town charm with thriving government and administrative sectors.
Top companies
- Vermont Mutual Insurance Group A leading provider of property and casualty insurance, offering career opportunities in various departments such as underwriting, claims, and customer service.
- Burton Snowboards A world-renowned manufacturer of snowboarding equipment and apparel, offering positions in design, marketing, and production.
- Norwich University The oldest private military college in the United States, providing employment opportunities in higher education, administration, and technology.
Top industries
- Manufacturing Vermont's manufacturing sector encompasses industries such as aerospace, electronics, and food processing, contributing significantly to the state's economy.
- Healthcare Vermont has a robust healthcare system with numerous hospitals, medical centers, and specialty clinics, offering diverse career paths for healthcare professionals.
Top roles
- Healthcare With an aging population and increasing demand for healthcare services, roles such as registered nurses, physicians, and medical assistants are in high demand.
- Education Vermont values education, resulting in opportunities for teachers, school administrators, and educational support staff.
State-specific Policies and Regulations
Vermont has implemented various state-specific policies and regulations to protect workers and ensure fair employment practices. The state has a minimum wage rate of $11.75 per hour as of 2021, providing workers with a decent standard of living. Vermont also has laws in place to prevent workplace discrimination based on factors such as race, gender, and age.
What it's like living in Vermont
Latest Statistics
Here are some latest stats on Vermont:
- Population: Approximately 623,989 as of 2021 (Source: U.S. Census Bureau)
- Median household income: $60,076 as of 2019 (Source: U.S. Census Bureau)
- Ethnic diversity: Predominantly White (94.5%), with small percentages of Black, Asian, Hispanic, and Native American populations (Source: U.S. Census Bureau)
- Age distribution: The median age in Vermont is 42.9 years, with a significant portion of the population aged 65 and above (Source: U.S. Census Bureau)
Unique Attractions
Vermont offers a wealth of unique attractions that make it an appealing place to live:
- National and State Parks: Vermont is home to beautiful parks, including Green Mountain National Forest and Lake Champlain Islands, offering an array of outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and boating.
- Historical Landmarks: Explore Vermont's rich history by visiting landmarks like the Bennington Battle Monument and the Shelburne Museum, which showcases American folk art and historical artifacts.
- Cultural Contributions: Vermont has a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music festivals providing opportunities for artists and performers.