Washington County Public RecordsVermont

As of the 2020 Census, Washington County, VT had a population of 59,807. The median age was 44.4 years, with 20.2% under 18 and 20.6% aged 65 and older. The gender split was nearly even: 49.1% male and 50.9% female. Racially, the county was 93.4% White, 1.1% Asian, 0.8% Black or African American, 0.5% Native American, and 2.9% two or more races; 2.2% identified as Hispanic or Latino.

Washington County, Vermont, had 40,464 registered voters in 2022. Voters participate in primary, general, and local elections, with 64% turnout in the 2020 presidential election. Key polling locations include Montpelier City Hall and Barre Civic Center. Major issues are climate change, education funding, and affordable housing. Elections are administered by the County Clerk and local Town Clerks, with polling hours typically 7 a.m.–7 p.m. The county leans Democratic—Biden received 68% of the vote in 2020—yet Republicans maintain a presence. Early mail-in voting and same-day registration are available for increased voter access.

Washington County, VT, has approximately 12 public high schools and over 25 K-12 schools, with a high school graduation rate of about 91%. Around 41% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety is rated above average, with most districts reporting minimal incidents annually. Adult education is offered through local institutions like Vermont Technical College and Community College of VT. Educational programs include AP courses, STEM initiatives, and arts integration. Average standardized test scores for high schools are slightly above the Vermont state average, reflecting strong academic performance.

As of 2022, Washington County, VT, had an employment-population ratio of approximately 59%. The largest industries are Health Care & Social Assistance (19.2%), Retail Trade (12.5%), and Educational Services (10.4%). Most workers hold roles in Management, Business, Science, and Arts occupations (39.3%). About 80% of residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 22 minutes; only 1.2% use public transit. Key employment centers include Montpelier and Barre City, attracting workers from surrounding towns.

Washington County, VT has a homeownership rate of around 70%, with median home values near $305,000 as of 2024. The median monthly rent is approximately $1,350. Property values have risen about 8% year-over-year. Housing types include historic single-family homes, condos, and rural properties across neighborhoods like Montpelier, Barre, and Waterbury. Property taxes average 1.76% of assessed value. The market remains competitive, driven by demand for both primary residences and vacation homes.

Washington County, VT, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, the violent crime rate was approximately 1.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, and the property crime rate stood at around 9.3 per 1,000. Local law enforcement regularly reports crime statistics via the Vermont Crime Information Center, promoting transparency. Most offenses involve theft and burglary, with violent crimes being rare. Community policing and active neighborhood watch programs contribute to the area’s overall safety.