Williamstown is a rural community in Central Vermont
Just south of Barre, Williamstown is a small, rural community known for its quiet vibe and spacious lots. “There’s no zoning in Williamstown, so you can do whatever you want with your land without the town getting involved,” says Lauren Gould, an associate broker at Green Light Real Estate with 7 years of experience. “It’s more affordable than most towns in the area.” While most of the community is undeveloped with fishing ponds and some hiking trails, there is also a small Main Street area with a few restaurants, convenience stores and a library. Interstate 89 runs along the community’s west side, and locals can drive to Barre or Montpelier for more shopping and recreation.
Spacious lots, sometimes used for personal farms
Houses near the town center sit on smaller lots of less than half an acre, but many away from town are on multiacre lots — some on as many as 10 acres. Late 19th-century cottages are mixed in with mid- to late-20th century ranch-style homes and log cabins, and most properties outside of the town center are on well water and private septic tanks. When space allows, some folks keep horses or small amounts of livestock. Prices typically depend on the home's condition, ranging from $80,000 to $450,000. Empty lots generally go between $45,000 and $400,000 for as many as 80 acres. Some properties near creeks are at risk of flooding during heavy rainfall, and some lenders may require flood insurance. “It’s pretty hilly, so you’re not running into wetlands and things like that for the most part,” Gould says. “In rural areas it’s always good to have a standby generator in case the power goes out in a storm. The more rural it is, the longer it takes to get the power back on.”
A handful of well-loved local businesses on Main Street
Locals get groceries from Dollar General and Pump and Pantry, a local gas station and convenience store. Just next door, LegenDairy Maple & Ice Cream has been a staple of the community for 25 years, selling Vermont-made maple syrup as well as other frozen treats. The Den is one of only a few restaurants in the area specializing in burgers. Next to the Town Hall and Ainsworth Public Library, The Pub sells pizza and sandwiches, and sometimes hosts live music. Residents drive to Barre or Montpelier for a wider selection of restaurants and stores.
Undeveloped landscapes with ponds and forested parks
Aside from Hoyt-Seaver Field, a multiuse athletic field in the center of town that hosts youth sports games, there isn’t much developed park space in Williamstown. Located on the south side of town, Ainsworth State Park comprises undeveloped forested land that locals can explore along unpaved trails. The ponds and small waterways scattered throughout the area are popular with people who like to fish. Golfers can visit T-Time Driving Range for a practice session.
Connected to Montpelier by Interstate 89
Interstate 89 borders Williamstown on the west side, leading about 15 miles north to Montpelier. The neighboring town of Barre is about 5 miles away. The University of Vermont Central Vermont Medical Center is less than 10 miles away, while Burlington International Airport is under 50 miles away.
Schools are located in the center of town
Williamstown Elementary School earns a C-minus from Niche. It offers an after-school program where students can participate in activities like fly fishing and creative writing. Williamstown Middle & High School earns a C and houses a work-based learning program, which helps students gain internship and job shadowing experience.
Annual holiday celebrations held by the Williamstown Recreation Board
The Williamstown Recreation Board organizes an annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony in early December. Hosted at the Hoyt-Seaver Field Pavilion, the event often includes a performance from the Williamstown Middle & High School Choir, as well as complimentary hot cocoa and candy canes.
