Fairlee City Demographics

Fairlee, a small town in Orange County, Vermont, had a population of around 988 as of the 2020 Census. The median age is approximately 47 years, reflecting an older population. About 50.5% are female and 49.5% male. Fairlee is predominantly White (approximately 95.5%), with small representations from Hispanic or Latino (1.6%), Asian (0.7%), African American (0.2%), and other races or multiracial residents (2%).

Fairlee City Housing

Fairlee, Orange County, VT, has a homeownership rate of about 72%, with median home values around $260,000 and median rent approximately $1,200/month (2024). The market has seen a modest annual increase of about 4% in property values. Housing mainly consists of single-family homes and seasonal cottages, particularly near Lake Morey. Neighborhoods are rural and close-knit, with limited multi-family units. The average property tax rate is about 1.86%, equating to $4,836 yearly on a median home. Rentals are limited, and vacancy rates are low, reflecting high demand in this scenic small town.

Education in Fairlee City

Fairlee, a small town in Orange County, VT, is served by the Rivendell Interstate School District, with Rivendell Academy as its high school, enrolling about 260 students (grades 6-12). The graduation rate is approximately 92%, and 55% of graduates pursue a bachelor's degree or higher. The school boasts a student-teacher ratio of 11:1, and safety scores rate above state average. Educational programs include Advanced Placement and dual enrollment. Adult education opportunities are available locally and via nearby colleges. There is one public high school in Fairlee; elementary students attend Samuel Morey Elementary.

Transportation in Fairlee City

Transportation in Fairlee, Orange County, VT, is predominantly car-oriented, with around 80% of workers commuting alone by car, and less than 1% using public transportation, reflecting limited transit options. The average commute time is approximately 26 minutes. Most households—about 95%—own at least one vehicle. The town is served by U.S. Route 5 and Interstate 91, providing regional connectivity. Major employment hubs are located in nearby towns such as Hanover, NH, and White River Junction, VT, with many residents commuting to these areas for work due to limited local employment opportunities.

Fairlee City Healthcare

Fairlee, Orange County, VT lacks a hospital within city limits; the closest major hospital is Cottage Hospital, 8 miles away in Woodsville, NH, and Gifford Health Care operates a clinic in neighboring Randolph. Approximately 94% of Orange County residents have health insurance (2022 Census). The city’s population is about 70% aged 45+, with common health issues including hypertension, diabetes, and arthritis. Primary care access is limited, with 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents in the county. Most providers are family physicians and physician assistants serving rural communities. Medicaid and Medicare cover a substantial portion of the population.