Why Live in Barre
Barre, Vermont, is a central city in Washington County with a population of approximately 8,300 residents. Known as the “granite center of the world,” Barre is famous for its granite quarries, which attracted immigrant workers in the 1800s. The city features a mix of historic Victorian-era homes in the city center and midcentury modern houses along the hills, including ranch styles, split-levels, Colonial Revivals, and raised ranches. Smaller Cape Cods and New Englander homes are found near the quarries. Barre’s real estate is notably affordable, with the median home price around $310,000, lower than the national median. Recreational opportunities abound with the Milestone Trails network spanning over 1,500 acres, offering mountain biking, hiking, and cross-country skiing. The Barre Municipal Auditorium hosts various events, including state championships and concerts. Barre is accessible via Interstate 89, U.S. Route 302, and Vermont State Routes 14 and 62, with Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport about 40 miles away. The city’s retailers, restaurants, and markets are concentrated along Main Street, with additional options in nearby Montpelier. Community events such as the Barre Heritage Festival and weekly summer races at Thunder Road are popular among residents. Public schooling in Barre serves over 2,200 students, with several private and adult education options available.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent a home in Barre, VT?
The median rent for a home in Barre, VT is $1,500 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of September 2026, townhouses tend to be the most affordable option while condos and single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Barre, VT?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Barre, VT, a household needs to earn roughly $60,000 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $1,500 per month in Barre, VT, renters typically need to show $4,500 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Barre, VT?
In Barre, VT, the price-to-rent ratio is 19.4, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.
There are currently 1 homes available for rent in Barre, VT. The median rent is $1,500 per month, with single-family homes renting at $1,988, townhouses at $1,475 and condos at $1,550.
Number of Homes for Rent
1
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Median Single Family Home Rent
$1,988
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Median Townhouse Rent
$1,475
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