Montpelier Real Estate
Montpelier is not your typical state capital. It is smallest of the 50 U.S. capitals and is probably best known for its natural splendor and outdoor recreational opportunities. It has a laid back, almost counter-culture feel, but is in no danger of becoming the Aspen of the East.
Still, it is a safe, vibrant city with an eclectic downtown, an active arts community and several major employers besides the state government. Its tourist industry thrives because its natural beauty is so accessible to nearby New York, Massachusetts and Maine.
But, at its heart, Montpelier is a city of SUVs, most of which have some sort of rack atop for kayaks, canoes, skis or fly fishing gear. This is not surprising as the city is home to several colleges, and is headquarters for several insurance companies and their home office execs; people with disposable time and income. A former governor confessed to having a ski rack on the roof of his state-provided Lincoln, and letting state business remain in his “in” basket on days when there was fresh powder on nearby slopes.
Beyond the slopes and the organics, Montpelier is being recognized by more and more people for more and more reasons. It has been named one of the best small towns for business, according to one national magazine. Another said it was in the top 100 cities for the arts, and another simply said it was one of the best places to live. And, suffice to say, most ski magazines rave about it because it’s close to major slopes, but still affordable.
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Fast Facts
Location: Near the middle of the state where four rivers, including the Winooski, merge.
Area: 10.26 square miles
Population: 8,035
Housing Units: 3,899
Average Annual Precipitation: 30 inches of rain and 9 feet of snow
Average Annual Temperature: 42 degrees F