Vermont Futures Project

A University of New Hampshire poll found that 63% of Vermonters aged 18-34 plan to leave the state within five years due to affordability concerns and seeking adventure. Overall, 86% of Vermonters find the state unaffordable, with housing costs and taxes cited as primary issues. The outmigration of young people could worsen Vermont's workforce shortages.

Vermont is experiencing population decline, housing shortages, and economic challenges due to aging population, rising taxes, and insufficient job creation. The state must add 13,500 workers annually and build 7,500 homes yearly to maintain stability but currently permits only 2,500 homes.

Vermont faces population decline, low labor force numbers, and poor economic rankings, with young residents expressing frustration over high costs and limited opportunities. Legislative efforts have been inefficient, with many bills failing to pass despite urgent issues like education reform and rural infrastructure. However, some bills addressing rural concerns and workforce development succeeded after grassroots advocacy.