Let the numbers do the talking.
Burlington, VT vs Shelburne, VT
Burlington, VT vs Shelburne, VT: What the data shows
Burlington, VT is in Burlington, VT while Shelburne, VT is in Shelburne, VT — both in the same state. On home prices, Burlington, VT is the more affordable option at $434,500 median — $33,300 less than Shelburne, VT's $467,800. WYLT rates Burlington, VT as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Shelburne, VT as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Shelburne, VT has the stronger safety profile of the two. Burlington, VT has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Shelburne, VT has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Burlington, VT has Low flood risk and Shelburne, VT has Low flood risk.
Burlington, VT is the more walkable neighborhood. Burlington, VT scores 49/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Shelburne, VT's 4/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Shelburne, VT has the higher school rating — Burlington, VT rates 6.6/10 and Shelburne, VT rates 7.4/10.
| Category | Burlington, VT | Shelburne, VT |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $435K ✓ Lower price | $468K |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $59K | $107K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 49/100 ✓ More walkable | 4/100 |
| Transit Score | 24/100 ✓ Better transit | 1/100 |
| Bike Score | 67/100 ✓ More bikeable | 1/100 |
| Commute | 30 min | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.6/10 | 7.4/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | remote workersyoung professionalscyclists | Families looking for good schoolsRetirees seeking a peaceful settingRemote workers who prefer a quiet environment |
Bottom line
For those prioritizing a more urban feel and slightly lower housing costs, Burlington may be the better choice, despite its limitations. Shelburne is a better fit for families and individuals seeking a quieter, more rural environment with good schools, but be prepared for even higher home prices and a strong need for a car. Ultimately, both neighborhoods have trade-offs, and the decision comes down to what you value most in a living situation.
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