Let the numbers do the talking.
Barre, VT vs Middlebury, VT
Barre, VT vs Middlebury, VT: What the data shows
Barre, VT is in Barre, VT while Middlebury, VT is in Middlebury, VT — both in the same state. On home prices, Barre, VT is the more affordable option at $220,600 median — $145,400 less than Middlebury, VT's $366,000. WYLT rates Barre, VT as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Middlebury, VT as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Barre, VT has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Middlebury, VT has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Barre, VT has Low flood risk and Middlebury, VT has Low flood risk.
Barre, VT is the more walkable neighborhood. Barre, VT scores 20/100 (car-dependent) versus Middlebury, VT's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Middlebury, VT has the higher school rating — Barre, VT rates 7.2/10 and Middlebury, VT rates 7.7/10.
| Category | Barre, VT | Middlebury, VT |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $221K ✓ Lower price | $366K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $69K | $88K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 20/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | 45 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.2/10 | 7.7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | affordable housingfamily-friendly small townquiet lifestyle | studentsfamiliesacademics |
Bottom line
For someone seeking a truly affordable lifestyle with quiet surroundings and low cost of living, Barre might be the better choice, despite its lack of amenities. However, if you're a student, family, or remote worker willing to drive, Middlebury offers even better schools and a similar quiet environment without significantly higher costs. Ultimately, the decision between the two comes down to your non-negotiables and priorities.
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