Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Pownal Center, VT
Considering a move to Pownal Center, VT? This close-knit rural community of about 1,500 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $235,000 and average rents near $950. Enjoy a peaceful lifestyle with low crime rates, short 23-minute commutes, and scenic Vermont seasons featuring 52% sunny days. Families appreciate the small local schools and strong healthcare access nearby, while the overall cost of living sits just below national averages—making Pownal Center an inviting spot for those seeking value and tranquility.
Demographics - Pownal Center, VT
Demographics - Pownal Center, VT
Pownal Center is a small rural community with a population of 1,500 and a median age of 46.2, reflecting a balanced mix of age groups. The area is predominantly White, with over 96% of residents identifying as such, and about 5% speak a language other than English at home. The gender ratio is nearly even, making the town inclusive for all newcomers.
Population:
1,500
Density:
120 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.2
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.1%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
2.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Pownal Center, VT?
Pownal Center offers a cost of living slightly below the national average, with median home values around $235,000 and typical rents of $950 for a two-bedroom apartment. Utilities and groceries are slightly higher than average, but affordable housing options and reasonable property taxes make it attractive for families and retirees. This balance provides good value for those seeking small-town Vermont charm.
Median House Value:
$235,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,250
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
3.35%
|
High:
8.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.1
Grocery:
103.2
Housing:
84.5
Utilities:
110.3
Transportation:
99.8
Health Care:
106.0
Miscellaneous:
97.0
Crime
Is Pownal Center, VT a safe place to live?
Residents enjoy a low incidence of violent crime, with the chance of experiencing such an event at about 1 in 893. Property crime is also relatively rare, giving the town a reputation for safety and peace of mind. This low crime rate is a strong draw for families and anyone prioritizing a secure environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
112
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,040
Crime Index:
1,152
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 893
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 96
Weather
What is the weather like in Pownal Center, VT year-round?
Pownal Center experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows around 12°F and warm summers with highs up to 80°F. The region receives about 40 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 52% of the year, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy Vermont’s natural beauty. Seasonal shifts are distinct, making it ideal for those who appreciate changing weather and outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
12°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
55°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
The community has a median household income of $62,400 and a low unemployment rate of 3.2%, indicating a stable local economy. Most residents commute about 24 minutes to work, and only a small percentage use public transportation. Educational attainment is strong, with over 91% having a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$34,800
Household Income:
$62,400
Family Income:
$74,200
Per Capita Income:
$30,100
Income Male:
$38,400
Income Female:
$32,700
Poverty Rate:
9.5%
Non English Speakers:
5.2%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
23.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.7%
Bachelors or More:
26.8%
Education
How are the schools in Pownal Center, VT?
Families benefit from Pownal Elementary School, which offers small class sizes and a supportive learning environment. Higher education is also nearby, with Bennington College just 9 miles away, providing additional academic and cultural opportunities. The strong local education system is complemented by high rates of adult educational attainment.
Public Schools
Name:
Pownal Elementary School
Street:
146 School House Rd
Phone:
802-823-7761
Students:
190
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.3
Colleges
Name:
Bennington College
City:
Bennington
State:
VT
Distance:
9 miles
Students:
800
Name:
Southern Vermont College (closed, 2019)
City:
Bennington
State:
VT
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
N/A
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is robust, with Southwestern Vermont Medical Center nearby and 94% of residents having health insurance coverage. The area offers about 2.5 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring timely care for most needs. A high healthcare index reflects the quality and accessibility available to Pownal Center residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Southwestern Vermont Medical Center
Address:
100 Hospital Dr, Bennington, VT 05201
Phone:
(802) 442-6361
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.0%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Pownal Center, VT?
The housing market in Pownal Center is accessible, with a median home price of $235,000 and a strong owner-occupancy rate of 77%. Rental options are available, with average rents at $950 and a moderate vacancy rate, making it possible to find a home that fits your needs. Steady 4.1% annual appreciation suggests a stable investment for buyers.
Median Home Price:
$235,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Pownal Center residents are served by the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles based in Montpelier, offering services such as licensing, registration, and title transfers. The DMV’s main office is easily accessible, and information is available online for added convenience. This ensures residents can efficiently manage their motor vehicle needs.
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.