If you’re seeking a slower pace of life with no end to beautiful scenery, consider Vermont acreage. This New England state is an outdoor lover’s paradise, whether you’re looking for year-round recreation or scenic views from your front door.
While it’s a small rural state, a lot is packed into its 9,000 square miles. Mountains, valleys, farmland, lakes, forests—whether you’re a homesteader, weekender, or investor, you’re sure to find acreage that meets your needs.
The best place to buy land in Vermont is an area that aligns with your lifestyle goals and long-term plans. If you’re thinking about buying land in Vermont, keep reading to explore some of our top picks across the Green Mountain State.
Why Vermont Is a Hotspot for Land Buyers
With a population just over 640,000, Vermont is an idyllic slice of New England life. What’s more, Vermont has growing land appeal for many reasons:
- Natural beauty – From snow-capped mountains to sparkling blue lakes, Vermont is home to a variety of stunning landscapes.
- Outdoor recreation – Easy access to nature brings lots of opportunities for four-season outdoor activities.
- Charming rural communities – Whether you’re raising a family or investing in agriculture, Vermont provides an escape from the hustle and bustle.
Here are some of the best places to buy land in Vermont.
Northern Vermont
If you love outdoor adventure—no matter the season—northern Vermont is calling. This region is home to the state’s top ski and snowboarding destinations, plus lots of hiking and water sports.
For instance, the 200-year-old village of Stowe is in the shadow of Mount Mansfield, the highest mountain in Vermont. Jay Peak is another popular ski area with an indoor water park to boot.
In the northwest corner, you’ll also find the Champlain Islands between mainland Vermont and the Canadian border. This remote region has a special allure for nature lovers, and offers hiking, biking, kayaking, and more.
Central Vermont
Central Vermont is where small-town charm meets historic and cultural heritage. Here, you’ll find Montpelier, the country’s smallest state capital with just 8,000 residents. But there’s still lots to do, with local museums, maple syrup shops, and family activities across town.
Another charming locale is Woodstock, a quintessential New England town home to the Quechee Gorge. A bit further north is picturesque Middlebury, which inspired many of Robert Frost’s poems. It’s also home to Middlebury College, offering some investment opportunity.
With easy access to services and amenities in central Vermont, you’re never far from the great outdoors. Residential and recreation buyers alike can find move-in-ready homesteads, undeveloped parcels, and getaway spots.
Southern Vermont
Southern Vermont has it all—famous fall foliage, ski areas, historic towns, and rural tranquility, plus short drives to nearby Massachusetts and New York.
Check out southwestern Bennington and Manchester, the two county seats of the Shires region. Bennington features a quaint downtown with shops, museums, and eateries, plus the local Bennington College. Manchester is more mountainous, with lots of skiing as well as outlet shopping.
A bit farther east, you’ll find Brattleboro in the Lower Connecticut River Valley. An artsy hub of the region, Brattleboro is home to a historic theater, annual literary festival, and monthly gallery walks.
Farmland and Open Acreage in the Valleys of Vermont
Vermont is more than mountains and forests. It’s also home to fertile valleys perfect for backyard and commercial farming. This land is also appealing to buyers who prefer wide-open spaces.
Over 6,000 farms are found across the state, with top crop production in grains, hay, berries, and tree nuts. Agricultural land in Vermont also has a strong market in livestock and poultry, including cow milk. Farmland is located all over Vermont, with the majority of agricultural acreage located in Franklin, Addison, and Orleans Counties.
Open land is an affordable investment, with opportunities to build your dream homestead, live off-grid, or start a farm.
Underrated Spots Worth Exploring
Vermont is full of lesser-known yet attractive rural land for buyers seeking acreage off the beaten path.
- Grafton – Population 600, Grafton is a small southeastern village with a close-knit community and streets out of a history book.
- Waitsfield – Located in the Mad River Valley, Waitsfield offers year-round recreation and some of the best fall foliage in New England.
- Monkton – A short drive from Burlington, Monkton is a small residential town in Addison County.
Land in these areas is more affordable, with potential for a variety of landowners.
Tips for Choosing the Right Area for Your Goals
Ultimately, the best place to buy land in Vermont is based on your needs. So, let’s recap each region, matching location to lifestyle.
- Northern Vermont – Outdoor recreation for residential, recreational, and investment land.
- Central Vermont – Small-town living for residential, retirement, and investment property.
- Southern Vermont – Lively small towns for families, retirees, and commuters.
- Open Acreage in Vermont – Agricultural land for homesteads and farms.
When you’re ready to turn your vision into reality, browse land for sale in Vermont on Land.com. With easy search filters and expert advice, you can make a confident and informed decision about your new acreage.
Sources:
United States Census Bureau. Vermont. https://data.census.gov/profile/Vermont?g=040XX00US50.
Visit New England. Northern Vermont. https://www.visit-vermont.com/northern/.
State of Vermont. Champlain Islands. https://vermontvacation.com/places-to-visit/vermont-regions/champlain-islands/.
State of Vermont. Central Vermont Itinerary. https://vermontvacation.com/central-vermont-itinerary/.
State of Vermont. Middlebury. https://vermontvacation.com/places-to-visit/downtowns/middlebury/.
Visit New England. Southern Vermont. https://www.visit-vermont.com/southern/.
State of Vermont. Lower Connecticut River Valley. https://vermontvacation.com/places-to-visit/vermont-regions/lower-connecticut-river-valley/.
USDA. 2022 Census of Agriculture. https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2022/Online_Resources/County_Profiles/Vermont/cp99050.pdf.
Visit Grafton, VT. Welcome to Grafton, VT. https://www.visitgraftonvt.com/.
Vermont. Waitsfield. https://vermont.com/cities/waitsfield/.
Vermont. Monkton. https://vermont.com/cities/monkton/.
