The poorest town in Vermont as of recent data is West Brattleboro, a part of the larger Brattleboro area in Windham County. Despite Vermont’s reputation for picturesque landscapes and generally high living standards, West Brattleboro stands out with a median household income of approximately $36,618, which is just over half of the statewide median of $67,694.
This significant income gap contributes to a poverty rate of 19.4%, almost double the state average of 10.5%. Unlike some perceptions, West Brattleboro’s demographic is not characterized by low education levels or racial minority status; in fact, the area boasts a higher-than-average rate of high school graduates, and less than one percent of the population identifies as Black.
West Brattleboro is known more as a residential village within the town of Brattleboro than as an independent town, featuring a mix of small businesses, shops, and traditional New England covered bridges.
The economic challenges faced by West Brattleboro reflect broader structural issues in Vermont, including high housing costs and limited economic opportunities. As housing prices rise and affordable options become scarcer, many residents struggle to keep up with living expenses, making poverty and economic insecurity prominent concerns in the community. Despite these financial hardships, West Brattleboro benefits from an active cultural scene, including arts communities and local landmarks, which contribute to community identity and cohesion. The economic struggles are not isolated to this area alone but are pronounced enough here to reflect the status of the “poorest town” label in the state.
Understanding these dynamics offers a more nuanced perspective on economic disparity in Vermont, highlighting the need for expanded affordable housing, economic development, and social support initiatives. While West Brattleboro may be identified as the poorest town based on income statistics, it remains a community with historical significance and resilience in the face of fiscal challenges.
Sources
(https://vermontdailychronicle.com/the-poorest-town-in-vermont-is/)
(https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/trip-ideas/vermont/poorest-towns-vt)
(https://www.homestratosphere.com/worst-towns-for-retirement-in-vermont-for-2025/)
(https://publicassets.org/research-publications/state-of-working-vermont-2024)
(https://247wallst.com/income/2025/01/17/the-poorest-town-in-every-state-in-america/)
