Even though it is the largest city in Vermont, Burlington's population is only around 40,000. Its small size is offset by a stable local economy centered around the University of Vermont and the UVM Medical Center, making it a city that should be viewed for its stability rather than its size.

The population of the Champlain Valley region, including Burlington, is showing a gradual increase. During the pandemic, remote workers flocked to the area for its natural environment, leading to a temporary surge in demand, and some have settled down, helping to expand the residential population base. However, looking at Vermont as a whole, the aging population is increasing rapidly, making it difficult to offset population decline solely through net migration.

The pillars supporting the local economy are healthcare and education. The UVM Medical Center is considered one of the largest employers in Vermont, and the university also provides stable jobs. Recently, there has been an increase in small startups and remote work-based companies establishing office spaces in downtown Burlington, indicating a gradual diversification of the industry.

According to labor market statistics from Vermont, the unemployment rate in the Burlington area is in the low 2% range, which is among the lowest in the country. However, this is partly due to the relatively small labor force, so it is prudent to be cautious in interpreting the low unemployment rate as a signal of growth. Income levels are gradually rising, particularly in the healthcare and education sectors.

Plans for airport facility improvements, urban redevelopment, and the expansion of bike and pedestrian-friendly transportation networks are being pursued at the city level. However, significant investment news, such as attracting large data centers or manufacturing, is relatively rare, so the pace of infrastructure investment is slower compared to other growing cities.

Local economic experts often evaluate Burlington as a stable city that prioritizes quality of life over explosive growth. While the appeal of population influx is clear, there are concerns that limited housing supply may continue to exert upward pressure on prices in the future.

For Korean households, considering the relatively small community size, the stable job base in healthcare and education, along with a pleasant living environment, can be attractive factors for families considering long-term residency. However, given the limited availability of properties in the market, it is advisable to take your time to explore the area rather than rush the timing of a purchase.