Montpelier, VT vs Rutland, VT

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Rutland is 26.9% cheaper than Montpelier. With a cost index of 78 vs 99, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Rutland to Montpelier should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Montpelier is $1,169/month compared to $942/month in Rutland — a 24% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Rutland is more affordable at $176,400 median vs $349,200.

Median household income in Montpelier is $79,175 compared to $55,000 in Rutland (+44%). While Montpelier is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Montpelier spend roughly 17.7% of their income on rent, less than the 20.6% in Rutland.