Vermont faces housing crisis as rent skyrockets and evictions surge to 9000 annually

In a recent government meeting, Vermont lawmakers discussed the pressing housing crisis affecting renters across the state. With rent prices soaring—23.4% in Chitterton County and 36.3% in Windham County since 2019—many residents are struggling to keep up. The average rent in Vermont has reached $11.49 per hour, while the average renter earns only $13.40, creating a significant gap that leaves many unable to afford stable housing.

The meeting highlighted alarming statistics, including a statewide vacancy rate of just 3.2%, with some areas reporting less than 1%. This scarcity of available homes is compounded by the fact that one in four homes in Vermont is over a century old, leading to habitability issues that renters often fear reporting due to potential eviction.

The discussion also revealed that evictions are a growing concern, with an estimated 9,000 self-evictions occurring annually, far exceeding the 1,800 recorded evictions. This trend contributes to a rising homelessness crisis, which has seen the homeless population in Vermont increase by over 200% in just four years, from 1,089 in 2020 to 3,458 in 2024.

Community members, including homeowners and small landlords, are increasingly recognizing the severity of the housing crisis. Many support measures aimed at providing housing stability, understanding that a lack of affordable housing not only affects renters but also impacts local businesses and the overall economy. The meeting underscored the interconnectedness of housing stability, workforce retention, and healthcare costs, as an aging population and rising healthcare expenses strain community resources.

As lawmakers consider solutions, the call for just cause eviction protections is gaining momentum, aiming to create a more stable housing environment for all Vermonters. The discussions from this meeting reflect a growing urgency to address the housing crisis and its far-reaching implications for the community.