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Vermont Senior Living Options & Resources

Senior Living in Vermont: What You Need to Know

Vermont stands out among New England states with a senior population of 134,141 residents aged 65 and older, representing 20.8% of the state's total population of 645,254. This percentage significantly exceeds the national average, reflecting Vermont's appeal as a retirement destination and the aging in place of longtime residents. With a median age of 43, Vermont has one of the oldest populations in the nation, creating a robust infrastructure of senior services and a culture that values elder care and community support.

The Green Mountain State offers a range of senior living options including assisted living facilities, memory care units, independent living communities, and skilled nursing facilities. While the state's geography presents challenges in terms of community distribution, Vermont compensates with strong local healthcare networks including the University of Vermont Medical Center, Dartmouth-Hitchcock affiliates, and numerous community hospitals that provide specialized geriatric care. Currently, there are 2 documented senior living communities in Vermont, with Saint Albans City representing the primary location for formal senior housing options in our database.

However, Vermont offers robust Medicaid programs and state assistance to help eligible seniors afford necessary care.

Vermont's commitment to aging in place is reflected in comprehensive home and community-based services that allow many seniors to remain in their homes longer. The state's strong sense of community, low crime rates, and emphasis on quality of life make it an attractive option for retirees, despite challenging winter weather. Healthcare quality is exceptionally high, and Vermont consistently ranks among the top states for overall well-being and healthcare access for older adults.

Types of Senior Living Care in Vermont

Top Rated Communities in Vermont

Highest rated senior living communities based on reviews.

The Residence at Quarry Hill - Senior Living in Vermont

The Residence at Quarry Hill

LCB Senior Living

South Burlington, VT

The Arbors at Shelburne - Senior Living in Vermont

The Arbors at Shelburne

Benchmark Senior Living

Shelburne, VT

Strode Independent Living - Senior Living in Vermont

Strode Independent Living

Distinctive Living

Randolph, VT

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Cost of Senior Care in Vermont

The median cost of assisted living in Vermont was $7,873 a month in the 2024 survey, 33% above the national median of $5,900.

Median monthly cost by care type, Vermont and the United States
Care type Vermont U.S. median
Assisted living $7,873 33% above U.S. $5,900
Nursing home, semi-private room $13,688 48% above U.S. $9,277
Nursing home, private room $15,208 43% above U.S. $10,646
Home health aide $8,294 28% above U.S. $6,483
Adult day health care Not published $2,167

Source: Genworth/CareScout Cost of Care Survey, 2024 (state median). Monthly figures are the annual median divided by 12. The survey does not cover independent living or memory care. Actual costs vary by community, location and level of care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Senior Living in Vermont

How much does senior living cost in Vermont?
The median cost of assisted living in Vermont was $7,873 a month in the 2024 survey, 33% above the national median of $5,900. Source: Genworth/CareScout Cost of Care Survey, 2024 (state median).
How many senior living communities are in Vermont?
Vermont has 43 senior living communities listed on Ultimate Senior Resource, across 26 cities. The most listings are in Bennington (5), Barre (3) and Burlington (3).
Does Vermont Medicaid cover assisted living?
Yes, Vermont's Choices for Care Medicaid waiver program covers Residential Care Homes (assisted living) for eligible seniors who meet financial and clinical criteria. Vermont is notable for its commitment to home and community-based services, and the program allows qualified seniors to use Medicaid funding in assisted living settings rather than requiring nursing home placement. The state also offers a Moderate Needs program for those requiring less intensive support.
What are the best cities for senior living in Vermont?
Burlington leads Vermont for senior living options with the most comprehensive healthcare, cultural amenities, and community variety, though costs are highest. Rutland offers good healthcare access and more affordable options in central Vermont. Brattleboro attracts seniors with its arts scene and milder southern climate. Saint Albans City provides accessible care in the northwest with small-town character. South Burlington combines suburban convenience with proximity to major medical centers. Manchester in southern Vermont offers upscale mountain living with excellent recreational access.
What makes Vermont's senior care system unique?
Vermont stands out for its strong emphasis on home and community-based care through the Choices for Care program, which gives seniors flexibility to receive Medicaid-funded care in their preferred setting. The state has one of the nation's highest percentages of seniors, creating a culture that prioritizes elder care and community support. Vermont's commitment to small, person-centered care environments and strong resident rights protections distinguishes it from many other states.
How does Vermont's climate affect senior living choices?
Vermont's four-season climate, including significant winter snow and cold, is an important consideration for senior living. Many seniors choose communities in walkable downtowns or full-service facilities where they won't need to navigate icy conditions. Southern Vermont offers somewhat milder winters than the northern regions. However, Vermonters are well-adapted to winter conditions, and most senior communities are designed with weather challenges in mind, featuring covered entries, excellent snow removal, and indoor activity spaces.

Major Cities with Senior Living Options in Vermont

Cities ranked by number of communities.

Bennington

Population 8,753
Seniors (65+) 25.6 %
Communities 5
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Rutland

Population 15,819
Seniors (65+) 25.7 %
Communities 3
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Barre

Population 8,488
Seniors (65+) 14.5 %
Communities 3
Explore Barre Senior Living

Burlington

Population 44,646
Seniors (65+) 11.6 %
Communities 3
Explore Burlington Senior Living

Shelburne

Population 6,195
Seniors (65+) 27.5 %
Communities 3
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Middlebury

Population 6,913
Seniors (65+) 20.4 %
Communities 2
Explore Middlebury Senior Living

Brattleboro

Population 7,543
Seniors (65+) 24.0 %
Communities 2
Explore Brattleboro Senior Living
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