Living Off The Grid in Vermont – What You Need To Know!
Many of us have imagined living off the grid, in a place where we would be completely independent and self-sufficient.
In Vermont, that dream can become a reality.
With its untouched nature, rural farmland and communities dedicated to sustainable living, it’s no surprise that the Green Mountain State is an ideal location for those wishing to live off the grid.
Here, we will explore all that Vermont has to offer for those who are seeking more freedom and connection with nature by living off the grid.
According to the United States Census Bureau, the population of Vermont was estimated to be 626,630.
As of 2017, the state’s population density was 68.5 people per square mile.
Vermont is popular for its diverse landscape, rich cultural heritage and outdoor recreation activities.
It is known for its picturesque mountains, rivers, valleys and lakes and is home to numerous ski resorts and national parks.
The state is also renowned for its craft breweries, ben & jerrys ice cream, speciality cheeses and maple syrup production.
Vermont is an ideal place to experience the changing of the seasons with colourful foliage in autumn and lush green landscapes in summer.
It’s also a hub of artisans with unique boutiques featuring handcrafted items and a vibrant music scene.
Yes, it is legal to live off the grid in Vermont.
There are several regulations and laws that have been put in place to protect the environment and public health, but there are also some exemptions for those wishing to pursue an independent lifestyle.
It is important to research all of the local as well as state regulations before setting out on your journey of living off the grid.
Benefits Of Living Off Grid In Vermont
Vermont is a great place to live off the grid and reap the benefits of living a simpler life.
Here are some of the top advantages of living off grid in Vermont:
- Low cost of living due to not having to pay for utilities or accessories associated with a traditional home
- Easier access to fresh, organic produce from local farmers and community gardens
- More self-sufficient lifestyle with renewable energy sources such as solar power
- Lower stress levels from living away from city life and enjoying clean air, natural beauty, and a slower pace of life
- Increased privacy and security in an off grid situation
- Opportunities to learn new DIY skills such as gardening and small scale livestock farming
The challenges of living off grid in Vermont
While going off grid in Vermont can be rewarding, it does come with some challenges.
Here’s what you should keep in mind if you’re considering this lifestyle:
- Limited access to modern amenities such as internet, streaming services and digital entertainment
- Expensive initial setup costs such as the cost of solar panels, batteries and other renewable energy sources
- Difficulty finding off grid land that is suitable for a home, particularly in highly populated areas
- Prolonged projects such as digging wells for water or finding alternative ways to heat/cool a home
- Necessity of obtaining back up generators or alternate power sources during outages
Things To Consider Before Moving to Vermont
Before moving to Vermont to live off the grid, there are some important things to consider.
It is essential to assess your own needs, such as which resources you will need access to.
You should also research local building codes and zoning laws in order to determine what type of structures you can build and where.
Additionally, be sure to understand the local climate and what kind of conditions you may experience during different seasons.
Living off the grid will also mean learning how to be self-sufficient and have a plan for emergency situations such as health issues or natural disasters.
Lastly, it is important to make sure that you have financial stability for your lifestyle since living off the grid does not come cheap.
Average Temperature In Vermont
Vermont typically has cold and snowy winters, with an average low temperature during the months of December through March ranging from 9°F to 24°F (-12.8°C to -4.4°C).
In summer, average high temperatures range from 70-83℉ (21.1-28.3℃).
Precipitation is spread throughout the year, with the highest levels occurring in late spring and early autumn.
Conclusion
With some forethought and planning ahead of time though, living off-grid can provide a unique experience, unlike any other – full independence with unparalleled access to all of mother nature’s gifts right outside your door!
You also might be interested in reading about other popular places in the world to live off the grid.
