Is Rutland Safe, Pros and cons of living in Rutland

Rutland, Vermont, offers a blend of small-city charm and access to natural beauty, making it an appealing place for many seeking a different pace of life. Nestled in the heart of Vermont, this city provides a community-oriented atmosphere with a strong connection to its local environment and history. Its location offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, while its downtown area presents a hub for local businesses and community events.

The city’s appeal lies in its balance between a tranquil setting and the conveniences of a populated area. Residents often find a sense of belonging and a shared appreciation for the Vermont lifestyle. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview for those considering a move to Rutland, covering essential aspects of daily life.

Is it Safe to Live in Rutland?

Rutland’s crime rates present a mixed picture, with property crime being more prevalent than violent crime. The chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Rutland is approximately 1 in 208, while the chance of being a victim of property crime is around 1 in 26 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). Within Vermont, Rutland’s crime rate is higher than in more than 96% of other communities in the state (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).

Focusing on specific crime types, larceny, which includes personal property theft, has seen a notable increase in recent years (as analyzed by VTDigger using FBI data). In 2022, larceny offenses were significantly higher than in 2019, with a third of these being shoplifting and a quarter being thefts from motor vehicles (as analyzed by VTDigger). While violent crimes like aggravated assaults have also seen an increase, they remain less common than property crimes (as analyzed by VTDigger using FBI data).

Housing and Cost of Living

Housing Market Overview

Rutland’s housing market is characterized by its relative affordability. The median listing price for homes in Rutland is approximately $279,000 (as reported by Realtor.com® Economic Research). This figure reflects a market where buyers may find good value, especially when compared to national averages.

The rental market in Rutland also presents options for those not looking to buy. The typical rental price stands at around $1,700 per month (as reported by Realtor.com® Economic Research), with some sources indicating an average rent of $1,500 per month (as reported by Zillow). This suggests a dynamic rental landscape with a range of options available.

Cost of Living

The overall cost of living in Rutland is generally considered to be lower than the national average, contributing to its appeal for those seeking more affordable living expenses. While specific cost of living indices can vary by source, Rutland is noted for its affordability in housing and other essential goods and services (as indicated by data from ERI Economic Research Institute and The Council for Community and Economic Research).

This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, making Rutland an attractive option for individuals and families looking to manage their budgets effectively. The cost of living is influenced by factors such as housing, transportation, utilities, and healthcare, all of which tend to be more favorable in Rutland compared to many other U.S. urban areas.

Job Market and Economy

Major Employers and Industries

Rutland’s economy is supported by a diverse range of employers and industries. Key sectors include Retail Trade, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Educational Services, which employ a significant portion of the workforce (as reported by Data USA). These industries provide a stable employment base for the community.

The region also benefits from a strong presence of small businesses, which collectively form a vital part of the local economy. The Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region actively works to support business growth, retention, and recruitment, fostering a dynamic economic environment (as reported by Chamber and Economic Development of the Rutland region). This focus on economic development aims to create opportunities and enhance the quality of life for residents.

Employment and Wages

The unemployment rate in Rutland County has remained relatively low, indicating a healthy job market. As of recent reports, the unemployment rate in Rutland County was around 2.1 percent (as reported by Vermont Business Magazine). This suggests that job seekers have a reasonable chance of finding employment opportunities within the region.

Average salaries in Rutland vary by occupation and experience, with an approximate average annual salary of $67,687 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The median household income in Rutland was reported as $57,675 in 2024 (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau). These figures provide insight into the earning potential and economic well-being of residents.

Climate and Environment

Temperatures and Seasons

Rutland experiences a four-season climate typical of New England, with cold winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from a low of around 12°F in January to a high of approximately 79°F in July (as reported by NASA’s MERRA-2 Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis). The city rarely experiences temperatures below -6°F or above 86°F throughout the year.

The warm season generally lasts from late May to mid-September, with daily high temperatures averaging above 69°F. Conversely, the cold season spans from early December to mid-March, with daily high temperatures falling below 39°F. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures, contributing to a varied seasonal experience for residents.

Precipitation and Weather Patterns

Rutland receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with an average of about 42 inches annually (as reported by myPerfectWeather). Snowfall is also common during the winter months, with an average of 76 inches per year, making January the snowiest month (as reported by myPerfectWeather).

Wet days, defined as days with at least 0.04 inches of precipitation, are more common during the warmer months, particularly from late April to early October. The month of July typically sees the most wet days, with an average of 12.2 days (as reported by NASA’s MERRA-2 Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis). Humidity levels are generally comfortable, even during the summer months.

Education and Demographics

School Ratings and Districts

Rutland’s educational landscape includes public and private school options. Rutland Senior High School has an overall Niche grade of B minus, with a student-teacher ratio of 15 to 1 (as reported by Niche). State test scores indicate that 35% of students are proficient in math and 40% in reading (as reported by Niche).

The Rutland City School District, serving PK-12 grades, has an overall Niche grade of C plus. It serves approximately 1,934 students with a student-teacher ratio of 13 to 1. State test scores for the district show 22% proficiency in math and 37% in reading (as reported by Niche).

Population and Demographics

Rutland city is home to approximately 15,712 residents, making it the fourth most populated city in Vermont (as reported by CUBIT). The population is predominantly White, accounting for about 92.6% of residents, followed by Hispanic (3.7%) and individuals of Two or More races (2.4%) (as reported by CUBIT). The median age in Rutland is around 49 years old (as reported by CUBIT).

The median household income in Rutland was $57,675 in 2024 (as reported by CUBIT). A notable portion of families, approximately 9.7%, live below the poverty line (as reported by CUBIT). The educational attainment shows that about 33.4% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau).