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Trying the top The Largest Cities In Vermont cities on US State Largest Cities – Choose State & Number? Here are the top 10 to get you started.
1. Burlington, VT (Population: 44,528)
Burlington, Vermont’s largest city, sits on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain and is known for its vibrant culture, scenic views, and progressive spirit. Home to the University of Vermont, Burlington thrives as a college town, with a lively downtown centered around Church Street Marketplace—a pedestrian-only shopping and dining district filled with local boutiques, cafés, and street performers. The city has a strong focus on sustainability and community, being the first U.S. city to run entirely on renewable energy. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy waterfront parks, bike paths, and boating on Lake Champlain, while winter brings skiing just minutes away in the Green Mountains. Burlington also hosts numerous music, food, and arts festivals throughout the year, adding to its charm.
Interesting Fact: Burlington is the birthplace of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, which opened its first shop here in 1978.
2. South Burlington, VT (Population: 21,043)
South Burlington, located just south of Burlington, is one of Vermont’s fastest-growing communities. Known for its mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, and natural beauty, the city provides a balanced lifestyle. It is home to the University Mall, Vermont’s largest shopping center, as well as numerous restaurants, breweries, and small businesses. South Burlington is also famous for its open spaces and recreational opportunities, with Red Rocks Park offering scenic trails and views of Lake Champlain. The city has prioritized sustainability and smart growth, making it a desirable place to live for families and professionals alike. Its proximity to Burlington International Airport further enhances its connectivity.
Interesting Fact: South Burlington is home to the headquarters of Ben & Jerry’s, carrying on the city’s connection to Vermont’s iconic ice cream brand.
3. Colchester, VT (Population: 17,588)
Colchester, located north of Burlington along Lake Champlain, is one of Vermont’s largest towns by population. It combines suburban living with beautiful lakefront areas, making it a popular place for outdoor recreation. Malletts Bay, a major feature of Colchester, draws visitors for boating, fishing, and swimming. The town also features miles of trails, including the scenic Colchester Causeway, a former rail line turned bike path that stretches into the lake. Colchester has a strong education system and is home to Saint Michael’s College, adding cultural and academic life to the community. Its economy blends retail, small businesses, and regional services.
Interesting Fact: The Colchester Causeway bike path extends more than two miles into Lake Champlain, offering breathtaking views.
4. Rutland, VT (Population: 15,630)
Rutland, located in central Vermont, is the state’s third-largest city and a hub for commerce and culture in the region. Once known as the “Marble Capital of the World,” Rutland built its prosperity on marble quarrying and railroads. Today, it thrives with a blend of retail, healthcare, and tourism. The historic downtown features restored buildings, shops, and cultural venues, including the Paramount Theatre, which hosts concerts and performances. Outdoor activities are abundant, with Killington Ski Resort just a short drive away and Pine Hill Park offering biking and hiking trails. Rutland also embraces community spirit with seasonal festivals and a year-round farmers’ market.
Interesting Fact: Rutland’s marble was used in famous buildings like the U.S. Supreme Court and the Jefferson Memorial.
5. Bennington, VT (Population: 15,200)
Bennington, located in southwestern Vermont, is rich in history and small-town charm. Known for the Battle of Bennington during the Revolutionary War, the city commemorates its legacy with the 306-foot Bennington Battle Monument, the tallest man-made structure in Vermont. The town is also a cultural center, home to Bennington College, the Bennington Museum, and galleries showcasing local artists. Bennington’s economy blends education, manufacturing, and tourism, while its historic downtown offers quaint shops and cafés. Outdoor lovers enjoy access to the Green Mountains and scenic drives along the Appalachian foothills. The community is deeply tied to its history yet forward-looking in its growth.
Interesting Fact: Robert Frost, one of America’s most famous poets, is buried in Bennington’s Old Bennington Cemetery.
6. Brattleboro, VT (Population: 12,110)
Brattleboro, located in southeastern Vermont near the Massachusetts and New Hampshire borders, is known for its artistic spirit and vibrant downtown. The town has become a hub for creative expression, with numerous galleries, theaters, and annual events like the Strolling of the Heifers parade, celebrating local agriculture. Brattleboro’s economy combines retail, education, and healthcare, while its natural surroundings offer hiking, river recreation, and scenic views of the Connecticut River Valley. The Marlboro Music Festival, held nearby, adds to its reputation as a cultural destination. With a strong community and unique atmosphere, Brattleboro stands out as one of Vermont’s most distinctive towns.
Interesting Fact: Brattleboro was the first town in Vermont to host a ski jump competition, dating back to the early 1900s.
7. Essex, VT (Population: 11,462)
Essex, located in Chittenden County, is one of Vermont’s largest towns by area and population. Known for its strong school system and family-friendly neighborhoods, Essex has become a desirable residential community near Burlington. The town’s economy includes small businesses, retail, and manufacturing, while residents enjoy recreational opportunities like parks, trails, and local events. Essex is also home to the Champlain Valley Exposition, which hosts fairs, concerts, and trade shows throughout the year. The combination of suburban living, community spirit, and proximity to Burlington makes Essex one of Vermont’s most attractive places to live.
Interesting Fact: The annual Champlain Valley Fair, held in Essex, is Vermont’s largest fair, drawing tens of thousands of visitors.
8. Essex Junction, VT (Population: 10,817)
Essex Junction, located within Chittenden County, is a small but vibrant city that combines community life with accessibility. Known for its walkable neighborhoods and strong civic pride, Essex Junction has a historic downtown featuring local shops, cafés, and venues. The city has been growing steadily, benefiting from its proximity to Burlington and Essex Town. It has invested in redevelopment and infrastructure while maintaining its small-town charm. Parks, schools, and local events create a strong sense of community. With easy access to jobs in nearby Burlington, Essex Junction has become an attractive place for families and professionals.
Interesting Fact: Essex Junction is one of the smallest cities in the U.S. by land area, covering just 4.6 square miles.
9. Hartford, VT (Population: 10,743)
Hartford, located in the Upper Valley region of Vermont, is a town made up of several villages, including White River Junction, Wilder, and Quechee. Known for its strong community and rich history, Hartford serves as a gateway to both Vermont and New Hampshire. White River Junction has transformed from a railroad hub into a center for the arts, with galleries, theaters, and the Center for Cartoon Studies. Quechee, another village, is famous for its gorge and annual hot air balloon festival. Hartford’s economy blends retail, education, and tourism, while Dartmouth College just across the river adds influence to the region.
Interesting Fact: Quechee Gorge in Hartford is nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of Vermont.”
10. Milton, VT (Population: 10,735)
Milton, located in northwestern Vermont, is one of the state’s growing communities, offering a blend of suburban and rural lifestyles. The town features scenic views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains, making it an attractive place for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and fishing. Milton’s neighborhoods are family-oriented, with strong schools and community programs. Its economy is supported by small businesses, retail, and regional services, while many residents commute to nearby Burlington for work. The town’s community spirit shines through events, local sports, and volunteer organizations, making it a close-knit and welcoming place to live.
Interesting Fact: Milton is known for Arrowhead Mountain Lake, a popular local spot for fishing and kayaking.
