Winter in Burlington is harsh. Therefore, many tenants looking for new apartments often first ask about window and insulation ratings. When comparing units renovated from old wooden houses to recently built low-rise constructions, it is frequently noted that even with the same square footage, the heating costs in winter can feel quite different.

According to data from Rent.com in 2026, the average rent for apartments in Burlington is $2,641, which is a 5.15 percent increase from the previous year. Studios average $1,875, while one-bedroom units are around $2,050. Interestingly, the average for newly constructed complexes is $1,663 for studios and $2,056 for one-bedrooms, which is not significantly different from the overall average. This indicates that the new construction premium commonly seen in other cities is not distinctly present in Burlington.

This phenomenon is not unrelated to Burlington's development approach. The city's large-scale development project in the South End, known as the SECORD project, plans for over 1,200 housing units, with a significant portion of the first phase of 205 units designated as affordable housing with income restrictions. Because these units are mixed in with new constructions, the average rent does not end up being as high as expected. Meanwhile, 42 percent of Burlington's entire rental stock consists of buildings constructed before 1939, meaning older homes make up a large portion of the market.

Comparing the two neighboring areas highlights the differences even more. The Old North End has many older multi-family homes, resulting in relatively lower rents and a developed walkable area, but the individual heating and cooling efficiency tends to be lower due to the age of the buildings. In contrast, the South End, where the SECORD project is being developed, is being restructured primarily with new constructions, making it a region expected to see a steady increase in supply over the next few years. Thus, within Burlington, the choice of neighborhood can significantly affect the experience of new versus older constructions.

Neighborhoods with older buildings are often located close to downtown or Lake Champlain, making them still attractive to tenants who desire walkable living areas. However, plumbing and windows may be decades old, potentially leading to higher heating costs in winter compared to new constructions, and there may be a looming need for major repairs. On the other hand, new projects like Burlington Square (formerly CityPlace) in downtown are allocating 20 percent of the 364 units as affordable housing and are aiming for completion between 2027 and 2028, indicating a continued supply of new constructions in the coming years.

Families moving to Vermont from other states should be aware that rental contract practices and tenant protection regulations may differ from their previous residences. Vermont has regulations for rent caps and tenant notice periods set at the state level, which is different from many other states where these can vary by county. Korean families considering schools for their children should refer to Burlington's school district evaluations, but it is advisable to verify the assigned schools by address before signing a lease.

From a real estate investment perspective, small-town markets like Burlington, where supply is limited, have the advantage of lower vacancy risks. However, it should also be noted that older wooden buildings tend to deteriorate faster due to New England's unique humid and cold climate. Since new projects are being developed with affordable housing obligations, an approach prioritizing stable rental demand rather than pure market appreciation seems to be a more realistic choice. This does not guarantee the profitability of individual properties, so risks should be carefully considered.

Given the narrow market, it is essential to check items more thoroughly.

• Year of building completion and history of window and insulation replacements
• Whether affordable housing is allocated and if income criteria are met
• Walking distance to downtown and the lakeshore

Burlington does not appear to be a market where new constructions are necessarily expensive, nor where older constructions are always cheap. Conditions vary based on location and development methods, so it is better to evaluate each property individually. This article is not investment or legal advice, and it is recommended to consult with professionals before finalizing any contracts.