Moving to or from South Burlington?
Burlington's rapidly growing southern neighbor — home to Burlington International Airport, the University Mall, and newer suburban-style neighborhoods with direct access to Lake Champlain and downtown Burlington.
- 20,000 City population
- 225,000 Metro area
- 1865 Founded
- Chittenden County / Northwest Vermont Region
Why people move to South Burlington.
- Being home to Burlington International Airport (BTV)
- University Mall — one of Vermont's largest shopping centers
- Direct access to Lake Champlain and waterfront recreation
- Rapidly growing commercial and residential base
- Rice Memorial High School and other top-rated schools
- Proximity to Mt. Mansfield and Stowe ski areas
Burlington International Airport (BTV) is actually located in South Burlington, not Burlington — a common source of confusion for new arrivals. South Burlington formally separated from Burlington in 1865 specifically because it was primarily agricultural and didn't want to pay Burlington's municipal taxes. Today it's the Burlington metro's fastest-growing city and home to significant commercial employment including the airport.
Where people live in South Burlington.
A quick guide to South Burlington's most moved-to neighborhoods.
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City Center / Dorset Park
Growing mixed-use area with newer apartments and commercial
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Williston Road corridor
Major commercial arterial with retail and apartments
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Spear Street
Upscale residential area with larger lots and lake views
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East Woods
Established residential neighborhood with character homes
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Queen City Park
Waterfront neighborhood on Lake Champlain
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Shelburne-adjacent
Affluent area with older established homes and Shelburne Farms nearby
Where people spend their time in South Burlington.
- Burlington International Airport Central South Burlington
- University Mall Central South Burlington
- Overlook Park & Red Rocks Park West South Burlington
- Shelburne Museum (nearby Shelburne) Shelburne
- Dorset Park Central South Burlington
- Vermont National Country Club Central South Burlington
Planning a South Burlington move.
- Vermont winters are severe; plan moves outside December-March if possible
- Chittenden County housing is tight; South Burlington has been among the most rapidly-appreciating municipalities
- Proximity to BTV airport creates some noise exposure in certain neighborhoods; research before buying near flight paths
- Vermont's Act 250 development rules affect new construction; new subdivision pace is measured
Moving in South Burlington: FAQ.
Is South Burlington actually south of Burlington?
Yes — the city sits immediately south and east of Burlington proper. The two cities border each other and many residents move between them freely. South Burlington has its own city government, schools, and commercial base but shares the metro's economic and cultural context. Downtown Burlington is 10-15 minutes from most South Burlington neighborhoods.
What's the commute from South Burlington to downtown Burlington?
10-15 minutes by car in most conditions via Shelburne Road (US-7) or Williston Road. GMT bus service provides regular transit between the cities. Many South Burlington residents work in downtown Burlington, at UVM Medical Center, or at GlobalFoundries in Essex — all within 20 minutes.
Is South Burlington affordable compared to Burlington?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. South Burlington has more newer construction and generally more square footage per dollar; Burlington proper has more historic character and walkability. Median home prices run similar overall but vary significantly by neighborhood. South Burlington's property taxes can be lower depending on specific location.
Is the airport noise a problem?
Depends on your neighborhood. Homes directly under the BTV flight paths (especially near Airport Parkway and Kirby Road) can have noticeable aircraft noise. Most of South Burlington is far enough from the airport that noise isn't a significant issue. Research specific addresses and, ideally, visit in different weather conditions before committing.
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