Salaries in Burlington, VT
What every job actually pays — cost-of-living adjusted
Updated: February 2026 · 27 occupations · BLS + Census data
Here’s the thing about Burlington: it’s a small city with a surprisingly big paycheck attached. With a population under 45,000 and an unemployment rate of just 2.3%, it feels more like a tight-knit town than a economic engine. Yet, its average salary sits at a solid $79,343, and that’s not adjusted for cost of living—which, at 100.0, is exactly the national average. The real story here is the math on the ground.
Let’s talk purchasing power. A median household income of $68,854 sounds modest until you factor in that your rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages $1,441 a month. For a city where the cost of living is perfectly average, that’s a decent squeeze. You’re not getting a steal, but you’re not getting gouged either. It’s a break-even proposition for many, which makes the high-end salaries even more critical. The COL adjustment doesn’t change the top numbers, which tells you Burlington isn’t a discount haven; it’s just priced normally.
So who’s actually thriving here? The data points to a clear hierarchy. The top earners are in marketing, tech, and healthcare, with software developers pulling in $127,260 and pharmacists at $136,030. This isn’t a blue-collar boomtown; it’s a hub for educated professionals. With over 60% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, Burlington’s economy is powered by the University of Vermont, the medical center, and a scattering of tech firms. You’ll also find project managers and construction managers doing well, but the real money is in knowledge work.
Here’s my honest take: wages here are solid, but are they keeping pace with the creeping costs of 2026? I’m not so sure. The city’s charm and low unemployment are big draws, but if you’re not in one of those top-paying fields, you might feel the financial walls closing in. This place works beautifully for a dual-income household or a single professional in tech or pharma. For others, it’s a balancing act.
The data below breaks down exactly which roles make the cut and what you can realistically expect to earn.
🏆 Top 5 Highest-Paying Jobs in Burlington
Ranked by raw salary. See COL-adjusted figures in the full table below.
Marketing Manager
Pharmacist
Software Developer
Construction Manager
Project Manager
📋 Complete Salary Guide — All 27 Occupations in Burlington
COL-Adjusted Salary = Raw salary divided by the cost of living index (100/100). Higher = more real purchasing power. This city's COL is above the US average.
| # | Occupation ↕ | Raw Salary ↕ |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marketing Manager | $157,620 |
| 2 | Pharmacist | $136,030 |
| 3 | Software Developer | $127,260 |
| 4 | Construction Manager | $108,210 |
| 5 | Project Manager | $101,280 |
| 6 | Physical Therapist | $99,710 |
| 7 | Financial Analyst | $99,010 |
| 8 | Web Developer | $92,750 |
| 9 | Dental Hygienist | $87,530 |
| 10 | Accountant | $86,080 |
| 11 | Registered Nurse | $86,070 |
| 12 | Data Analyst | $83,360 |
| 13 | Police Officer | $74,910 |
| 14 | Human Resources Specialist | $67,650 |
| 15 | Elementary School Teacher | $63,670 |
| 16 | Plumber | $63,350 |
| 17 | Paralegal | $62,750 |
| 18 | Electrician | $61,550 |
| 19 | Real Estate Agent | $61,480 |
| 20 | Graphic Designer | $61,340 |
| 21 | Firefighter | $57,120 |
| 22 | Carpenter | $56,920 |
| 23 | HVAC Technician | $55,670 |
| 24 | Heavy Truck Driver | $53,090 |
| 25 | Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $50,000 |
| 26 | Welder | $49,590 |
| 27 | Medical Assistant | $38,270 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics. COL Index from C2ER/ACCRA.
🏙️ Living Costs in Burlington
🧮 Can You Afford to Live in Burlington?
Use our Salary Reality Check to see if your specific income covers housing, taxes, and expenses in Burlington. Enter your salary and see exactly how far your money goes.
❓ Burlington Salary FAQ
What is the average salary in Burlington, VT?
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📝 Editor's Verdict: Is Burlington Worth It?
As Burlington's editor, here's my take: if you're chasing pure paychecks, this isn't the place. The $79k average feels okay until you remember rent is $1,441. The COL index is a flat 100—meaning it's average, not a steal.
The real star is the Marketing Manager, pulling $157,620. It's the only role where the salary truly works here. But let's be honest: you'll benefit most if you're in healthcare or skilled trades. Tech is okay, but the salaries don't stretch as far as you'd hope.
So, is Burlington worth it? Only if you value lifestyle over maximizing your bank account. My one piece of advice: secure the job before you move. The market is competitive, and don't expect your salary to go as far as you think.