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Discovering the Most Affordable Property Taxes in Vermont: A Guide to Chittenden County and Beyond

Writer's picture: Julie DanaherJulie Danaher
Dec 9, 20244 min read

Affordable property taxes in Vermont

Welcome to our in-depth guide to finding the most affordable property taxes in Vermont. Whether you're looking to settle in Vermont or already live here, property taxes are an important factor to consider. Surprisingly, some towns in Chittenden County and nearby areas offer budget-friendly property tax rates without sacrificing the quality of life. Let’s explore how property taxes work and dive into which towns provide the most value for your investment.



How Do Property Taxes Work in Vermont?

When you receive a property tax bill in Vermont, it’s a combination of two main components:

  1. Education Tax: This portion funds local schools.

  2. Municipal Tax: This part supports local services like road maintenance, fire departments, and libraries.


    ext explaining the Common Level Appraisal (CLA), which compares market value to actual value, on a gradient orange background.
    The Common Level Appraisal (CLA) determines how market value compares to actual value for tax purposes.

These two rates are combined to determine the overall tax rate, which is then applied to your property’s assessed value. This assessed value might differ from the market value and is adjusted using the Common Level of Appraisal (CLA) to account for regional market variations.

For example:

  • A home valued at $400,000 with a CLA of 80% would have an assessed value of $320,000.

  • If the total tax rate is 2%, the property tax would be $6,400 annually.


    An infographic displaying tax calculations. It shows an average home price of $400,000, with a CLA (Common Level Appraisal) of 80%, resulting in a $320,000 taxable value. At an average tax rate of 2%, the total tax bill is $6,400. Icons of a house and tax-related items are also present.
    Understanding property taxes: How the CLA affects your total tax bill calculation.

Chittenden County Towns with Affordable Property Taxes

Here’s a breakdown of some Chittenden County towns with competitive tax rates:


The outdoor shopping area in Williston, Vermont, featuring benches, trees, and brick buildings under a covered walkway. Text overlay reads 'Williston Vermont - 2.31% Total Tax with the CLA at 69%'.
Williston, Vermont, offers a total tax rate of 2.31% with a CLA of 69%, complementing its charming downtown scene

  • Tax Rate: 2.31%

  • CLA: 69%

    Williston strikes a balance between affordable taxes and proximity to Burlington, making it ideal for families or professionals. Its lower municipal tax rate reflects effective town planning and budgeting.


    Williston, Vermont, offers a total tax rate of 2.31% with a CLA of 69%, complementing its charming downtown scene
    Explore Essex, Vermont, where the total tax rate stands at 2.60% with a CLA of 69%, reflecting its vibrant community.

  • Tax Rate: 2.6%

  • CLA: 69%

    Essex is known for its efficient schools and well-maintained local resources, offering excellent value for families.


    The South Burlington Public Library and City Hall, featuring a modern orange and white facade with seasonal decorations. Text overlay reads 'South Burlington Vermont - 1.98% Total Tax with the CLA at 82%
    South Burlington, Vermont, combines innovation with a 1.98% total tax rate and an 82% CLA.

  • Tax Rate: 1.9%

  • CLA: 82%

    South Burlington’s balanced tax rate comes with urban perks like shopping centers, parks, and community programs. It’s perfect for those seeking convenience and affordability.


    A scenic aerial view of Hinesburg, Vermont, showing colorful autumn foliage and residential homes. Text overlay reads 'Hinesburg Vermont - 2.54% Total Tax with the CLA at 68%'
    Hinesburg, Vermont, balances beauty and affordability with a total tax rate of 2.54% and a CLA of 68%.

  • Tax Rate: 2.54%

  • CLA: 68%

    Hinesburg’s rural charm and spacious properties attract residents who value open spaces without sacrificing proximity to Burlington.



    A historic brick mill building in Winooski, Vermont, under a moody sky. A pedestrian crossing sign is visible in the foreground. Text overlay reads 'Winooski Vermont - 2.02% Total Tax with the CLA at 108%
    Winooski, Vermont, blends history and community with a 2.02% total tax rate and a 108% CLA.

  • Tax Rate: 2.02%

  • CLA: 108%

    Winooski offers the benefits of a growing downtown and community-focused initiatives. While the CLA inflates the effective tax rate, the town’s redevelopment projects add significant value.


Affordable Towns Beyond Chittenden County


A historic brick building in Georgia, Vermont, with a white porch and a sign for the Georgia Historical Society Museum. Text overlay reads 'Georgia Vermont - 2.10% Total Tax with the CLA at 71%'
Georgia, Vermont, preserves its charm with a total tax rate of 2.10% and a CLA of 71%.

1. Georgia (Franklin County)

  • Tax Rate: 2.1%

  • CLA: 71%

    Georgia’s rural landscape and low property taxes make it a favorite for those seeking peace and affordability.


    A rural landscape in Ferrisburgh, Vermont, during sunset, with warm orange tones lighting up the rolling hills. Text overlay reads 'Ferrisburgh Vermont - 2.46% Total Tax with the CLA at 73%'.
    Ferrisburgh, Vermont, pairs picturesque views with a 2.46% total tax rate and a 73% CLA.

2. Ferrisburgh (Addison County)

  • Tax Rate: 2.46%

  • CLA: 73%

    Ferrisburgh combines affordability with scenic views of Lake Champlain and convenient access to Burlington and Middlebury.


    A peaceful rural setting in Cambridge, Vermont, featuring barns, open fields, and a winding road. Text overlay reads 'Cambridge Vermont - 2.37% Total Tax with the CLA at 72%'.
    Cambridge, Vermont, offers serenity with a total tax rate of 2.37% and a CLA of 72%

3. Cambridge (Lamoille County)

  • Tax Rate: 2.37%

  • CLA: 72%

    Known for outdoor recreation and proximity to Smugglers’ Notch, Cambridge is perfect for active homeowners.


    An aerial view of Cabot, Vermont, showcasing a small community nestled among rolling hills and autumn foliage. Text overlay reads 'Cabot Vermont - 1.86% Total Tax with the CLA at 105%'.
    Cabot, Vermont, is a quaint retreat with a 1.86% total tax rate and a CLA of 105%.

  • Tax Rate: 1.86%

  • CLA: 105%

    Cabot’s rural charm and proximity to Montpelier offer the lowest tax rates in our list while maintaining small-town appeal.


    A distant view of the mountains in Fairfax, Vermont, with fields and homes in the foreground under soft sunset lighting. Text overlay reads 'Fairfax Vermont - 1.72% Total Tax with the CLA at 96%'
    Fairfax, Vermont, combines mountain views with a 1.72% total tax rate and a CLA of 96%.

5. Fairfax (Franklin County)

  • Tax Rate: 1.7%

  • CLA: 96%

    Fairfax is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and commuter-friendly location near both Chittenden and Franklin Counties.


Why Do Tax Rates Vary?

Tax rates differ due to community priorities:

  • Towns with well-funded schools or extensive services (like libraries and parks) often have higher rates.

  • Smaller towns with fewer public amenities generally maintain lower tax rates.

If property taxes remain a concern, Vermont offers relief through the Property Tax Adjustment Program, which calculates reductions based on household income.


A scenic aerial view of a small community surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage and a reflective lake under a clear sky.
Breathtaking views of Vermont's fall foliage, highlighting the natural beauty of its rural communities.

Choosing the Right Town

While low property taxes are appealing, it’s essential to balance affordability with lifestyle needs. A slightly higher tax rate may offer better schools, parks, or community services. Consider what matters most to you—whether it’s affordability, amenities, or location—and choose a town that fits your priorities.


Get Involved

Are you a Vermont resident or planning to move here? Let us know in the comments what matters most to you when choosing a town—affordability, schools, community features, or property taxes.


Click on the table below for more specific information on tax rates in Vermont:

A table listing Vermont towns with data on their CLA (Common Level Appraisal), homestead rate, municipal tax, and total tax percentage. Towns are organized alphabetically with corresponding tax rates.
A comprehensive table of Vermont towns showing CLA, Homestead Rates, Municipal taxes and total tax percentages for each location.

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