Grand Isle County
countyGrand Isle County is located in northwestern Vermont, along the U.S./Canadian border. It is uniquely situated as an archipelago of islands and a peninsula within Lake Champlain. As of 2020, the population was 7,293, making it Vermont's second-least populous county. The county seat is North Hero. The area offers a rural, island-like setting with strong ties to the lake and surrounding natural environment. Grand Isle County's economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, and a growing number of residents who commute to nearby Burlington for work. Key industries include hospitality, farming, and services supporting the seasonal influx of visitors. There are no major institutions within the county, but its proximity to Burlington provides access to a wider range of services and employment opportunities. Grand Isle County is distinctive for its island geography and rich history tied to Lake Champlain. The area has played a role in various conflicts, including the French and Indian Wars and the American Revolution. Today, it offers a tranquil, outdoor-oriented lifestyle with opportunities for boating, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of the Champlain Islands.
Grand Isle County, Vermont
- Classification
- County
- FIPS Code
- 50013
- Country
- United States
- County
- Grand Isle County
- Region
- Northwestern Vermont
- Total Area
- 195 sq mi
- Land Area
- 82 sq mi
- Water Area
- 113 sq mi
- Latitude
- 44.816036
- Longitude
- -73.299889
- Climate
- The climate is characterized by warm summers and cold, snowy winters, typical of northern Vermont.
- Notable Features
- Lake Champlain · Champlain Islands · Alburgh Peninsula
- Neighboring Areas
- Clinton County, NY · Chittenden County, VT · Franklin County, VT
- Population (2020)
- 7,293
- Est. Population (2026)
- 7,566
- Median Age
- 48.7
- Median Income
- $90,625
- Poverty Rate
- 7.94%
- Owner-Occupied
- 90.9%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- The racial makeup of the county was 92.2% White, 0.7% Black or African American, 0.6% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5% Asian, 0.6% from some other race, and 5.5% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents of any race comprised 1.7% of the population.
- Government Type
- The county is governed by a board of commissioners.
- Governing Body
- Board of Commissioners
- School District
- Champlain Islands Unified Union School District
- Unemployment Rate
- 3.7%
- Economic Profile
- Tourism · Agriculture · Commuting to Burlington
- Employment Sectors
- Health Care & Social Assistance · Educational Services · Manufacturing
- Schools
- 4
- Students
- 200
- School Districts
- Champlain Islands Unified Union School District
- Transportation
- U.S. Route 2 · Ferry service to New York
- Major Facilities
- Grand Isle County Courthouse in North Hero
- Outdoor Access
- Yes
- Major Recreation Areas
- Grand Isle State Park · North Hero State Park · Knight Point State Park
- Founded
- 1802
- Named After
- The largest island in the county, which the French called Grand Isle
- Historical Significance
- Historically significant as a gateway between French Canada and the English colonies, and for its role in various military conflicts.
- Key Events
- Early settlement in the 1780s · Role in the War of 1812 · Creation from parts of Franklin and Chittenden Counties