Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Shaftsbury, VT
Considering a move to South Shaftsbury, VT? This small, welcoming community of about 740 residents boasts affordable homes with a median price of $255,000 and average rent around $1,120. Residents enjoy a low violent crime rate (82 per 100K), short 23-minute commutes, and access to highly rated local schools, all set in a picturesque, four-season Vermont climate. With high homeownership, strong educational attainment, and a relaxed, rural lifestyle, South Shaftsbury is perfect for those seeking tranquility and small-town charm.
Demographics - South Shaftsbury, VT
Demographics - South Shaftsbury, VT
South Shaftsbury is a close-knit community of 740 residents, with a median age of 44.6 years and a predominantly White population. The area is characterized by a balanced gender ratio and a small percentage of non-English speakers, offering a peaceful, friendly environment ideal for families and retirees.
Population:
740
Density:
225 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.6
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.2%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
2.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Shaftsbury, VT?
The cost of living in South Shaftsbury is slightly above the national average, with a median home value of $255,000 and average rent of $1,120 per month. Residents benefit from reasonable utility costs and moderate state taxes, making it an accessible location for homeownership and daily expenses.
Median House Value:
$255,000
Gross Rent:
$1,120
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,320
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
3.35%
|
High:
8.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
104.5
Grocery:
103.2
Housing:
98.4
Utilities:
110.8
Transportation:
101.5
Health Care:
106.1
Miscellaneous:
101.0
Crime
Is South Shaftsbury, VT a safe place to live?
South Shaftsbury boasts a notably low violent crime rate of 82 incidents per 100,000 people, offering residents a strong sense of safety. While property crime is higher at 1,120 per 100,000, overall crime remains manageable, contributing to the town’s reputation as a secure place to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
82
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,120
Crime Index:
1,202
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,220
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 89
Weather
What is the weather like in South Shaftsbury, VT year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 13°F and warm summers reaching highs of 81°F. The area receives about 43.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 54% of the year, perfect for those who appreciate distinct seasonal changes.

Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
32°F

Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
64°F

Summer
Min:
55°F
Max:
81°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
43.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Households in South Shaftsbury typically earn around $67,100, with a poverty rate of 8.3% and an unemployment rate of just 3.2%. The community values education, with over 92% of adults holding a high school diploma or higher, and most residents enjoy short commute times and a peaceful, small-town atmosphere.
Median Income:
$34,000
Household Income:
$67,100
Family Income:
$78,500
Per Capita Income:
$35,200
Income Male:
$44,600
Income Female:
$36,100
Poverty Rate:
8.3%
Non English Speakers:
3.2%
Rent:
$1,120
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
22.9 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
92.9%
Bachelors or More:
36.5%
Education
How are the schools in South Shaftsbury, VT?
Families benefit from well-rated public education, such as Shaftsbury Elementary School with a favorable student-teacher ratio of 11.8. Higher education opportunities are available nearby at Bennington College, just six miles away, supporting lifelong learning and development.

Public Schools
Name:
Shaftsbury Elementary School
Street:
150 Buck Hill Rd
Phone:
802-442-2446
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.8

Colleges
Name:
Bennington College
City:
Bennington
State:
VT
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
830
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is strong, with Southwestern Vermont Medical Center nearby and 2.1 physicians available per 1,000 residents. A high rate of health insurance coverage (94.5%) ensures most community members receive the care they need.

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:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.5%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Shaftsbury, VT?
South Shaftsbury offers a stable housing market, with a median home price of $255,000 and owner-occupied homes making up 79% of the market. Rental options are limited but affordable, with low vacancy and foreclosure rates reflecting a healthy demand for homes.
Median Home Price:
$255,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,120
Owner Occupied Rate:
79.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents are served by the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles, with convenient access to licensing, registration, and vehicle services. The nearest DMV office is located in Montpelier, offering comprehensive support for drivers and vehicle owners.
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.