Is South Burlington Safe, Pros and cons of living in South Burlington

South Burlington, Vermont, offers a blend of suburban comfort and access to urban amenities, making it an attractive place for individuals and families considering a move. Nestled in Chittenden County, it benefits from its proximity to Burlington, the state’s most populous city. This positioning provides residents with a variety of opportunities for employment, recreation, and cultural enrichment.

The city is known for its well-regarded public school system and a strong sense of community. With a focus on innovation and a commitment to a high quality of life, South Burlington presents a compelling case for those seeking a place to settle down. Its economic landscape is diverse, supported by major employers and a growing business sector, contributing to a stable environment for its residents.

Is it Safe to Live in South Burlington?

South Burlington’s overall crime rate is higher than the national average, with a total crime rate of 4,619.7 per 100,000 residents (as reported by FBI data for 2024). This places the city in the 5th percentile for safety nationally, meaning it has higher crime rates than 95% of U.S. cities. Specifically, larceny-theft is the most elevated crime category, occurring at a rate of 3,981.2 per 100,000 people, which is 2.4 times the national average.

However, it is important to note that crime rates can vary significantly by neighborhood within South Burlington. While the overall crime rate is higher than the national average, residents generally consider the southern part of the city to be the safest. Your chance of being a victim of crime can range from 1 in 23 in the west neighborhoods to 1 in 68 in the south. Year over year, South Burlington’s total crime rate has decreased by 18.6%, with violent crime declining by 7.9%.

Demographics and Population

As of the 2020 U.S. census, South Burlington had a population of 20,292 residents, making it the second-most populous city in Vermont. The median age in South Burlington is 40.6 years, with 17.8% of residents under 18 and 19.1% aged 65 or older. Recent estimates project the population to be around 21,713 in 2024 and a projected 21,447 in 2026.

The racial composition of South Burlington is predominantly White, making up approximately 78.96% of the population, followed by Asian residents at 10.21%. Other racial groups, including Black or African American, Native American, and multiracial populations, constitute smaller percentages. The median household income in South Burlington is reported to be $83,750 (for 2017-2021), with other sources indicating a median household income of $106,667 in 2024 and $98,473 in 2026.

Cost of Living

South Burlington’s cost of living is higher than the national average, with overall expenses estimated to be 13% higher. Housing expenses are particularly notable, being 29% higher than the national average. The median home value in South Burlington was approximately $481,493 as of March 31, 2026.

Rental costs are also above the national average. The average rent for an apartment in South Burlington is around $1,916 per month as of April 2026, representing a 3.94% increase from the previous year. This is approximately 13% higher than the national average rent of $1,642 per month. For a 1-bedroom apartment, the average rent is about $1,888, while a 2-bedroom apartment averages around $1,944.

Job Market and Economy

South Burlington boasts a service-based economy with a labor force participation rate of 73.5%, which is 10% higher than the national average. The primary sectors for employment include educational services, health care, and social assistance, accounting for 34.2% of the workforce. Other significant employment sectors are manufacturing (11.4%), retail (9.0%), and professional, scientific, and technical services.

Major employers in the city include GE Healthcare, the Vermont National Guard, and Ben & Jerry’s. The presence of Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport, located within South Burlington, also contributes to the local economy and provides significant employment opportunities. The average annual salary in South Burlington is approximately $51,726 as of April 26, 2026. The unemployment rate for the Burlington-South Burlington area was 2.10% in April 2026, which is lower than the long-term average.

Climate

South Burlington experiences a classic four-season climate with cold, snowy winters and warm, wet summers. The temperature typically ranges from a low of 12°F in January to a high of 81°F in July. The coldest month, January, sees average lows around 13°F and highs near 28°F.

Summer temperatures are most pleasant from May through September, with July being the hottest month, averaging highs of 80°F to 82°F and lows around 62°F. The city receives about 38 inches of precipitation annually, with July typically being the wettest month, averaging 13.1 days with precipitation. Annual snowfall is substantial, averaging around 97 inches, with January being the snowiest month.

Education

South Burlington is served by a highly-rated public school system. The South Burlington School District is ranked fourth out of 72 districts in Vermont and holds a five-star rating, indicating exceptional academic achievement. Public schools in South Burlington demonstrate strong proficiency scores, with an average math proficiency of 59% and a reading proficiency of 61%, significantly exceeding the state averages.

South Burlington High School is recognized as a top-performing school, ranking first among high schools in Vermont according to Niche. Other highly-rated schools within the district include Orchard School and Frederick H. Tuttle Middle School. A significant portion of the student body, 70.9% of individuals aged 16 and older, are in the labor force.

Major Employers

South Burlington’s economy is supported by a range of significant employers across various sectors. GE Healthcare is a prominent employer, contributing to the city’s robust health sciences sector. The Vermont National Guard also maintains a significant presence, providing employment and contributing to the region’s security.

Other key employers include Ben & Jerry’s, known globally for its ice cream and commitment to social responsibility. The University of Vermont Medical Center, while technically an academic medical center, is a vital employer for the greater Burlington area and has a strong connection to South Burlington’s healthcare services. Additionally, companies like IDX Systems (now part of GE Healthcare) and Dynapower represent the city’s strength in technology and manufacturing sectors.

Demographics and Population Breakdown

The population of South Burlington was recorded at 20,292 in the 2020 census. Current estimates suggest the population is around 21,713 in 2024, with projections indicating a continued increase. The median age is 38.2 years, with a slightly higher proportion of females to males (93.2 males per 100 females).

The demographic makeup shows a White population of approximately 78.2%, followed by Asian residents at 10.2%. There is a notable concentration of residents aged 25 and older with a Bachelor’s degree or higher, exceeding both the state and national averages. This educational attainment contributes to a skilled workforce and a vibrant community.