There is so much for visitors to love about Vermont.
The quaint New England towns in the fall, the powdery slopes in winter, or just the general ambiance of Small Town America anytime!
The Green Mountain State is one of the largest maple syrup producers in the United States and is becoming well known for its artisanal food scene.
Another major draw to the state is its safety rating.
CNBC and Wallethub awarded Vermont with being the Safest State in America and Best State to Live in America.
SafeWise found that Vermont is well below the national property crime ratings with 19.90 incidences per 1,000 residents, compared to the 27.11 nationally.
Although all cities in the state are considered safe, these are the top 10!
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10 Safest Cities in Vermont
Ten: Northfield
Rounding out the top of our list is Northfield, which boasts a small population of 2,677.
As you will notice on this list, many of these towns have tiny populations, which contribute to their charm and character.
Located in the middle of the Green Mountains and home to Norwich University, the oldest private military college in the U.S., Northfield has an incredibly high median household income and an overall crime rate 60% below the national average.
Violent crimes in this town are 2.66 and the property crime rating is 5.83.
Nine: Morristown
Number nine on our list is Morristown, another small town with a population of just 2,200 residents.
Nestled along the Lamoille River in a beautiful valley, Morristown is only 10 minutes from the ski capital of the East, Stowe.
In addition to boasting a low violent crime rating of 1.10 and property crime rating of 1.26, Morristown has stunning old mansions that have become museums displaying antique collections.
Eight: Williston
One of the largest towns on this list is Williston, with a population of 8,700.
While living in this town is pricy, it is well worth the money due to an extremely low violent crime rating of 0.72 and property crime rating of 12.90.
Williston is an easy drive to Burlington International Airport and has one of the largest shopping areas in the state.
Locals and visitors enjoy the stunning maple trees and beautiful watercolor-painted sunrises.
Seven: Milton
This tiny town of 10,723 residents has all you can imagine from a New England town – country roads, acres of woods, open fields, barns, and horses.
This town is a picture you would expect to find on a New England puzzle.
Considered one of the Top 10 Places to Live according to Money Magazine, Milton also boasts a violent crime rating of just 1.45 and a property crime rating of 7.62.
That means you can stroll the historic stress, enjoy the local museums, and gawk at the wildlife in peace.
Six: Swanton
This picturesque town of 6,400 is a place many Vermonters visited once and decided to stay.
Known as one of the most attractive communities in the state, Swanton boasts a low violent crime index of 1.22 and a property crime rate of 6.10.
The Missisquoi River meanders through the town and empties into the mighty Lake Champlain.
Here you will find a variety of family-owned and chain businesses.
Five: Essex
With the highest population on this list, just shy of 20,000 residents, Essex boasts an impressive 0.08 violent crimes and 0.92 property crimes rating.
Situated near Lake Champlain, Essex is the second-largest city in the entire state.
This city offers a highly respected school system, safe and walkable streets, and a majestic landscape.
Four: Colchester
Best known for its agricultural roots, Colchester presents has some of the best fresh fruits and vegetables on this side of the Mississippi!
Living within all that nature has to offer, visitors will certainly enjoy the numerous organic options at the local farmer’s market.
Also, Colchester is a short distance to Lake Champlain, where locals say Champ, the real Loch Ness Monster lives.
Add a low violent crime rate of 0.14 and a property crime rating of 1.5, and this is a safe destination.
Three: Barre
Coming in at number three is Barre, a small city of 7,900 tucked in the Green Mountains.
This intimate community consists of four villages, each offering incredible viewpoints of the mountains.
The rural environment delivers countless outdoor activities to visitors and locals.
Couple this with a violent crime rate of 1.30 and a property crime rate of 9.27, and this is an amazing destination.
Two: Middlebury
With a larger population of 6,900, Middlebury boasts an impressive violent crime rating of 0.06 and a property crime rate of 0.95.
This shire town is home to Middlebury College and a local rave that over 30% of residents walk to work.
The countless academic opportunities and low crime rates are the primary reason people flock to this town.
One: Shelburne
That brings us to the safest city on our list: Shelburne!
With a small population of just under 8,000 residents (yes, 7,717 in 2020 to be exact!), Shelburn boasts a non-existent violent crime rating of 0.04 and a property crime rate of 0.50.
Situated peacefully near Lake Champlain, Shelburne boasts an impressive number of 19th-century country homes, against captivating blue skies, with mountain peaks poking above the horizon.
Dirt roads meander across the tracts of land, giving you comfort and peace every day you visit.
5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Vermont
Tip #1: Register with the Rangers Office
Given that Vermont is an outdoor enthusiasts’ paradise, you will likely plan to go hiking or camping when visiting.
It is always advisable to register your route and plans with the ranger’s office before trekking out into the wilderness.
Each year, many hikers disappear into the woods, succumbing to the local wildlife, gorges, or other tragic events.
In the instance that an issue occurs, the ranger’s office will know exactly where to look for you if you do not check back in at the end of the trip.
Tip #2: Never Veer Off-Path
Furthermore, once you have registered with the local ranger’s office and are well into your hike, never veer off the created paths and always camp at a local site.
Getting lost in the Green Mountains, especially during the harsh winters, can be incredibly dangerous, so use the paths to see incredible landscapes.
Tip #3: Never Feed Wild Animals
Vermont is full of majestic wild creatures, but you should observe them from a distance.
You never know when an animal feels threatened because you have ventured too close.
Depending on the animal, they will take a fight or flight mentality, so you do not want to find out which by feeding them.
You can get great Instagram photos by observing them from a distance in their natural habitat.
Tip #4: Pack Accordingly
Since Vermont enjoys four seasons, you want to pack clothing and accessories accordingly.
When in the higher elevations in the summer, while the sun may not feel hot due to a cooler temperature, make sure to wear sunscreen since you will bake without knowing it.
Also, be prepared for the weather to shift in the mountains in an instant.
This is especially true in the winter when squalls can come out of nowhere.
Tip #5: Watch Your Belongings
When at one of the countless festivals or just traveling around the larger cities, especially during peak tourist seasons, always be aware of your surroundings and watch your belongings.
While Vermonters are incredibly nice and pickpockets are minimal risk, it is always best to be on guard.
That means men should keep their wallets in the front pocket while women wear their bags with the strap across their bodies and to the front.
Vermont Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Vermont Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Vermont?
While the state is never out of season due to the endless outdoor activities, May and June or September and October are the best times to visit.
Late spring and early summer offer the Vermont City Marathon, moderate crowds, and maple syrup.
September and October are more expensive and more crowded but cannot compare to the million-dollar views of the foliage.
When is the worst time to visit Vermont?
The busiest time of the year is July and August, with trails being packed with tourists who are also shopping at the farmers’ markets and enjoying local festivals.
Winters are incredibly unpredictable ranging from cold, freezing rain to fluffy snow.
Therefore, if you do not plan to ski in the winter, you may not want to visit at this time.
What is the seasonal weather like in Vermont?
Vermont has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter.
Spring is rainy, but with comfortable temperatures.
Summers are hot and can be humid, with the most sunshine of the year.
Falls are cool and comfortable with a light breeze.
Winters are freezing and snowy, but also have ice in lower-laying areas.
Where does Manchester, Vermont rate in this survey?
While these cities are known for their safety, it’s important to remember that safety conditions can vary even within cities, so local knowledge is essential.
Safety is a shared responsibility, and it’s heartening to see these cities taking steps to maintain and enhance the well-being of their residents.