Let the numbers do the talking.
Essex, VT vs Middlebury, VT
Essex, VT vs Middlebury, VT: What the data shows
Essex, VT is in Essex, VT while Middlebury, VT is in Middlebury, VT — both in the same state. On home prices, Essex, VT is the more affordable option at $364,500 median — $1,500 less than Middlebury, VT's $366,000. WYLT rates Essex, VT as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Middlebury, VT as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Essex, VT has the stronger safety profile of the two. Essex, VT has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Middlebury, VT has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Essex, VT has Low flood risk and Middlebury, VT has Low flood risk.
Essex, VT is the more walkable neighborhood. Essex, VT scores 32/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Middlebury, VT's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Middlebury, VT has the higher school rating — Essex, VT rates 7/10 and Middlebury, VT rates 7.7/10.
| Category | Essex, VT | Middlebury, VT |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $365K ✓ Lower price | $366K |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $97K ✓ Higher income | $88K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 32/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 48/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | 45 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 | 7.7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with childrenRetirees looking for a quiet settingRemote workers who need a peaceful environment | studentsfamiliesacademics |
Bottom line
Bottom line: If you value a quiet, close‑knit community with plenty of outdoor space, Essex is the better fit. Middlebury offers a marginally higher school rating and a small edge in walkability, but both towns are similar in price and require a car. Either neighborhood is solid; choose Essex for a more relaxed setting, or Middlebury if you prefer a slightly stronger school system and are comfortable commuting to Burlington.
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