Residents and real estate agents reveal why people flock to Vermont, a state known for its natural scenery. After being discovered in research The state was the most popular state for movers in 2023.
According to United Van Lines' annual National Moving Survey, which tracks the company's data on migration patterns, more people moved to the Green Mountain State than any other state in the country for the third year in a row, with 65% of people moving there. is the Green Mountain State.
Most of those who did so (nearly 30%) did so because they wanted to be closer to their families. However, the remaining 20% of her simply sought lifestyle changes.
Ashley Vincent, a real estate expert and owner of Home Investors, said Vermont offers a sense of security that is increasingly appealing to families and individuals alike.
More Americans will move to this state than any other state in 2023
Over the past three years, more people have moved to Vermont than any other state. (Josh Edelson/AFP/Jon Graeme/Lightrocket/Tim Graham via Getty Images)
Vermont is consistently ranked as the safest state in the United States. According to U.S. News and World Report, Vermont ranks third for lowest violent crime rate and sixth for lowest property crime rate.
Experts and residents who spoke to Fox News Digital said Vermont's small-town charm helps foster a close-knit atmosphere with a friendly community.
“For those seeking a sense of belonging and a break from the fast-paced urban lifestyle, Vermont offers a warm connection to community and a slower pace of life,” said Vincent. Ta.
Vermont has a lower population density than states with comparable housing prices, quality of education, and crime rates. Vincent noted that this factor is particularly appealing in an era of increased remote work, where people are looking to escape fast-paced employment hubs in exchange for a relaxed environment.
Melisa Reavis, who runs a family resort hotel in Manchester, said she had seen a steady increase in the number of people moving to her town since the coronavirus pandemic. She said real estate inventory has become extremely low in recent years, due in part to remote workers who are able to live full-time in the state.
“People stay at our hotels, come to events at our hotels, seasonal ski rentals, and ultimately buy homes in Vermont,” she said.
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Beautiful views overlooking Daniels Pond in Glover, Vermont. (Epic/Getty Images)
One of the movers headed to Vermont is Chenise Hines, a licensed real estate agent, home stager and interior designer.
“For me, Vermont was good in every way. Housing costs were lower than where I had moved, I was able to find a cute little cottage in my price range, and I could survive the severe snowstorms in the winter. “But our neighbors are very nice.” “We're always quick to grab the snowblower and help each other dig out. That's the Vermont way,” she said.
Hines also praised the state's local food and fresh produce at farmers' markets, as well as its many outdoor activities, including skiing for weekend getaways in the mountains.
“The natural beauty sealed the deal for me. I'll never forget the gorgeous fall foliage here, and the quaint small towns and family-owned businesses that make you feel truly part of the community. There are a lot of them,” Hines added. “I joined a few local groups and quickly made friends.”
Nancy Zafrani, general manager of Oz Moving & Storage, also emphasized the benefits of Vermont. His remote employees recently spoke passionately about the state's beautiful seasons, nature, and tranquility.
She noted that fall in the state is known as “foliage season,” and many New York and New Jersey residents drive there to enjoy the fall foliage.
Vermont is about the same size as New Jersey, but it has only 700,000 residents compared to New Jersey's 10 million, which is another factor that draws people to the state.
Fall foliage at picturesque Equinox Mountain and Pond in Manchester, Vermont. ((Photo by: Tim Graham/Getty Images))
New Jersey has lost more residents than any other state for the sixth year in a row. Illinois, Michigan, and California were also among the top states with high rates of international migration in 2023.
“For outdoor enthusiasts, Vermont is a haven with abundant recreational opportunities. From hiking trails to world-class skiing and winter sports, the state offers plenty of options for those who value an active and adventurous lifestyle. “It's a playground for those who find fun in the great outdoors,” Vincent said.
A similar conclusion was reached by Jim Orenbush, a design expert and owner of a technology-focused Austin real estate brokerage firm.
From what he's heard from his customers, affordability and country living are big draws to Vermont for some.
“Being able to stretch your budget and raise your family in a lush, tranquil place is appealing. And in this busy world, simple pleasures like a breath of fresh air under a wide open sky can be especially rewarding. “It’s very appealing to the soul,” he said.
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At the same time, Orenbush said, the high cost of living and densely developed areas have driven people away from the prosperous state in recent years.
“When your paycheck is squeezed by expensive housing and the traffic jams feel endless, it's understandable that greener pastures start calling your name,” Orenbush said. .
“Whether it's getting closer to nature or finding a budget-friendly way to retire peacefully, everyone wants the freedom to create their own story. By focusing on priorities like this, “Individuals will be able to better identify which destinations could be their next exciting chapter,” he said. he concluded.
FOX News' Daniela Genovese contributed to this report.
