Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Manchester Center, VT
Considering a move to Manchester Center, VT? This charming town of 2,430 residents offers a peaceful lifestyle with a median home price of $410,000 and average rents around $1,275. Enjoy low crime rates (violent crime just 67 per 100K), short 20-minute commutes, and high educational attainment — nearly half of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Manchester Center’s scenic Vermont setting provides four full seasons, excellent schools, and easy access to outdoor recreation and healthcare, making it a welcoming community for families and retirees alike.
Demographics - Manchester Center, VT
Demographics - Manchester Center, VT
Manchester Center is a close-knit community of about 2,430 residents, with a median age of 51.2, reflecting a mature population. The area is predominantly White (94.5%), has a balanced gender ratio, and features a small but present non-English speaking community. Residents enjoy a relaxed pace of life in a town known for its friendly atmosphere.
Population:
2,430
Density:
235 per sq mi
Median Age:
51.2
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.5%
Black:
0.8%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
3.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Manchester Center, VT?
The cost of living in Manchester Center is above the national average, mainly due to higher housing expenses, with a median home value of $410,000 and average rents around $1,275. Utilities and groceries are also slightly elevated, but residents benefit from reasonable state taxes. Overall, newcomers can expect a comfortable lifestyle with costs reflecting the area's desirability.
Median House Value:
$410,000
Gross Rent:
$1,275
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$710
State Taxes:
Low:
3.35%
|
High:
8.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
115.0
Grocery:
110.7
Housing:
120.0
Utilities:
107.5
Transportation:
109.2
Health Care:
104.6
Miscellaneous:
106.3
Crime
Is Manchester Center, VT a safe place to live?
Manchester Center boasts a low crime rate, with just 67 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 1,493 chance of experiencing violent crime. Property crimes are also lower than many towns, contributing to a safe and secure environment. This makes it a reassuring choice for families and retirees seeking peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
67
Property Crimes Per 100k:
870
Crime Index:
937
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,493
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 115
Weather
What is the weather like in Manchester Center, VT year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with chilly winters dropping to 11°F and warm summers reaching up to 80°F. The town receives about 43 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 53% of the year. This climate supports year-round outdoor activities and scenic beauty.
Winter
Min:
11°F
Max:
31°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
Manchester Center has a median household income of $64,100 and a low poverty rate of 6.7%, reflecting a stable and prosperous community. Most residents commute under 20 minutes, and nearly half hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The town's small population fosters a neighborly and engaged atmosphere.
Median Income:
$38,400
Household Income:
$64,100
Family Income:
$82,700
Per Capita Income:
$38,400
Income Male:
$44,500
Income Female:
$32,300
Poverty Rate:
6.7%
Non English Speakers:
6.2%
Rent:
$1,275
Unemployment Rate:
2.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
19.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
95.8%
Bachelors or More:
49.7%
Education
How are the schools in Manchester Center, VT?
Manchester Center offers quality educational opportunities, including a well-regarded elementary and middle school with small class sizes and a respected private academy. The area is also near higher education institutions like Bennington College and Castleton University, both within a short drive. Nearly half of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, underscoring the community's commitment to learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Manchester Elementary & Middle School
Street:
80 Memorial Ave
Phone:
802-362-1597
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.5
Private Schools
Name:
Burr and Burton Academy
Street:
57 Seminary Ave
Phone:
802-362-1775
Students:
750
Colleges
Name:
Bennington College
City:
Bennington
State:
VT
Distance:
23 miles
Students:
800
Name:
Castleton University
City:
Castleton
State:
VT
Distance:
33 miles
Students:
2,200
Healthcare
Healthcare access is strong, with local primary and urgent care at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center – Northshire Campus and a major hospital 23 miles away in Bennington. Residents benefit from a high rate of health insurance coverage (95.1%) and 2.6 physicians per 1,000 people. This ensures reliable medical support for individuals and families.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Southwestern Vermont Medical Center – Northshire Campus
Address:
5957 Main St, Manchester Center, VT 05255
Phone:
(802) 362-4440
Type:
Primary & Urgent Care
Emergency Services:
No
Name:
Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (main hospital)
Address:
100 Hospital Dr, Bennington, VT 05201
Phone:
(802) 442-6361
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
95.1%
Health Care Index:
77.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Manchester Center, VT?
Manchester Center's housing market features a median home price of $410,000 and an owner-occupancy rate near 69%, indicating a stable, homeowner-driven community. Average rent for a two-bedroom is $1,275, and vacancy rates remain low, making the market competitive but accessible. Homes have appreciated by 4.2% over the past year, reflecting steady demand.
Median Home Price:
$410,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,275
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Manchester Center are managed through the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles, located in Montpelier. Residents can access licensing, registration, and other DMV needs online or by phone. The DMV’s comprehensive website offers convenient resources for newcomers and long-time locals.
State:
Vermont
Department:
Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
120 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05603
Phone:
1-802-828-2000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.