City Town Info

Montpelier, VT


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Montpelier, Vermont

Introduction to Montpelier, Vermont

Montpelier is the capital of Vermont and is located in Washington County. The Winooski River runs along the southern edge of the downtown area. The city is surrounded by granite ridges and numerous hills. Montpelier is recognized as a major center for arts and entertainment for the region.

History

It's been estimated that by 1200 AD large settlements were located all over the area. Europeans entered the region beginning in 1600 and due to war with the Native Americans, the vast majority of the Indian villages were destroyed. Years later the area was chartered as a city in 1781. Montpelier was chosen as the location for the state capital in 1805. The arrival of a railroad during the mid-1800's created a thriving economy. By the year 1925 the city was home to nine granite works which were utilized to refine stone that was extracted from the quarries located in Barre.

The timber industry was thriving in the area during the early portion of the 19th century. In 1927 a powerful flood did enormous damage to the city. The town grew at a slow pace during the late 19th century and the early stages of the 20th century due to citizens migrating west and moving to industrial cities in the New England area.

Transportation

Montpelier is served by Amtrack. Bus services are provided by the Green Mountain Transit Authority. The city is served by the Burlington International Airport which is approximately 35 miles from Montpelier.

Attractions

  • The Vermont State House is an impressive building featuring an attractive gold leaf dome.
  • The Vermont Historical Society Museum
  • T.W. Wood Art Gallery is situated in College Hall which is part of the Vermont College campus.
  • Green Mount Cemetery
  • Hubbard Park and Tower offers hiking and skiing trails and an observation tower that provides superb views of the city.
  • North Branch Nature Center
  • The Two Rivers Center Farm

Outdoor Activities

The city provides numerous locations for bicycle riding. Canoeing in the Winooski River is a popular activity. The Hubbard and North Branch River Parks provide a large number of trails for cross-country skiing and hiking. Downhill skiing opportunities are located close to the city. Three distinct walking tours showcase the attractive historic buildings located in Montpelier. Visitors enjoy the State Street, Mains Street and the College Street Tours.

Higher Education

The city is home to Vermont College which is associated with Union Institute and University. Woodbury College and the Community College of Vermont are located in Montpelier.

High Points

Montpelier strengths, compared to Peers (similar size places nationally) or State (other places in Vermont):

CategoryTrophy
Walking and Biking to Work
(vs. Peers)
Top 2%trophyMontpelier Walking and Biking to Work
Well-Paid Single Women
(vs. State)
Top 8%Montpelier Well-Paid Single Women
College Educated Adults
(vs. Peers)
Top 10%Montpelier College Educated Adults

Comparative Profile of Montpelier, VT

Comparing Montpelier to similar size places nationwide (Peers) and to other places in Vermont (State):

Ratings range from 1 (lowest) to 10 (highest).


The People

CharacteristicCompared
to Peers
Compared
to State
Female Share of the Population109
Age of the Population99
Well-Paid Single Women910
Well-Paid Single Men78
Senior Citizens67
Racial Diversity28
Male Share of the Population12
Children Under 5 Years Old12

Families

CharacteristicCompared
to Peers
Compared
to State
Portion of People Married12
Average Household Size11

Wealth

CharacteristicCompared
to Peers
Compared
to State
College Educated Adults109
Median Family Income66
People in Middle Class or Better66
People Above Poverty55

Commute & Sprawl

CharacteristicCompared
to Peers
Compared
to State
Walking and Biking to Work109
Working at Home94
Short Commute Times76
Public Transportation Use58

Housing

CharacteristicCompared
to Peers
Compared
to State
People Living Alone109
Studio & One-Bedroom Rentals109
Seasonal and Vacation Housing83
Affordability of Rents67
Affordability of Property Taxes21
Housing Recently Built13

Crime

CharacteristicCompared
to Peers
Compared
to State
Low Violent Crime74
Low Property Crime55
Detailed pages on related topics: Colleges in Montpelier, Graduate Schools in Montpelier, Montpelier travel

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