Page 3 of Best Independent Living in Vermont

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 29 independent living communities in VT using VT Dept. of Disabilities, Aging & Independent Living (DAIL) data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank independent living in VT
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Last updated
We analyzed These are the facilities in Vermont our team has analyzed — not a count of every independent living provider in Vermont.
29 homes
Other senior care options in Vermont:
Avg Walk Score: 45/ 100The average Walk Score across facilities in Vermont. A third-party neighborhood walkability score (0–100) measuring convenience and context, not healthcare quality. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 50/ 100
Avg No. of Beds: 109The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in Vermont. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 90
Overview of The Residences at the Essex

The Residences at the Essex at 5 Freeman Woods in Essex Junction, Vermont, is an independent living community. It’s set in a residential area with a Walk Score of 32, so some nearby services are walkable, but most trips require a car.

Independent living communities like The Residences at the Essex are tailored for older adults wanting to live independently while enjoying the convenience of community amenities and services. Occupants typically have their own private apartments where they can control their daily lives while optionally participating in social activities and dining options. The Essex location gives access to the surrounding Vermont community.

It’s encouraged for interested residents and their families to contact the home directly to learn more about floor plans, pricing, dining options, and the full range of activities and services.

Contact The Residences at the Essex

Overview of The Residence at Quarry Hill

The Residence at Quarry Hill is a senior living community in South Burlington, Vermont. It provides three complementary care levels: independent living, assisted living, and memory care, along with respite care options. The community at 465 Quarry Hill Road in Chittenden County welcomes families seeking a care continuum where residents can transition between service levels while staying in a familiar setting.

The neighborhood has a Walk Score of 30, indicating it’s somewhat walkable. A few nearby services may be within walking reach, though most errands demand transportation. Pets aren’t allowed.

For families interested in how The Residence at Quarry Hill manages daily life, services, dining, and specialized memory care programming, an in-person tour provides the best way to experience what it offers and to learn how the care continuum model works for their loved one.

Contact The Residence at Quarry Hill

Overview of Black Mountain Estates

Black Mountain Estates is more than just a place to live, it’s a haven of luxury single-story homes nestled in a close-knit and verdant community, perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Residents have access to an array of recreational amenities, including a fitness room, shuffleboard, horseshoes, pavilion with covered seating and tables, tennis courts, billiards, and more. 
Every aspect of the home is thoughtfully designed for comfort and aesthetics, from the radiant floor heating to the multi-zone heating and air conditioning, marble and porcelain tiles, private backyards, and patios. Moreover, the kitchen boasts high-efficiency appliances, making cooking a breeze while ensuring energy efficiency. Home repairs and maintenance, as well as landscaping and lawn care, are included in the package, ensuring that residents have more time to enjoy their leisure activities.

Contact Black Mountain Estates

Overview of Harbor Village Senior Communities

Harbor Village Senior Communities is a residential senior living community located in South Burlington, Vermont, serving older adults seeking various levels of care and support. The community is situated at 90 Allen Rd and welcomes families to tour its residential spaces through eight photographs showcasing bedrooms, living areas, bathrooms, kitchens, and common gathering spaces.
The community specializes in a full continuum of care services, offering assisted living for residents who need daily support with activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management; independent living for those who want to maintain an active lifestyle with access to community amenities and services; residential care for those requiring more hands-on personal assistance; and respite care for families seeking short-term support during transitions or recovery periods.
Located in South Burlington, the community sits in a neighborhood with a Walk Score of 25, reflecting moderate car-dependency. While some nearby services may be reachable on foot, most errands and outings will require transportation. This quieter, residential setting appeals to those seeking a peaceful environment outside the city center while maintaining reasonable proximity to Vermont’s larger communities.
The community is pet-friendly, allowing residents to keep their companion animals as part of their daily lives. This policy recognizes the importance of pets in promoting emotional well-being and maintaining familiar routines during a transition to senior living.
For specific details about floor plans, monthly pricing, current availability, staffing levels, dining options, activities programming, healthcare services, and other amenities, interested families are encouraged to contact Harbor Village Senior Communities directly or visit in person to experience the community firsthand.

Contact Harbor Village Senior Communities

Overview of The Residence at Otter Creek

The Residence at Otter Creek is a residential assisted living community in Middlebury, Vermont. The home in Addison County offers a full care continuum, with assisted living, independent living, memory care, and respite care meeting residents’ varying needs. The tree-lined setting features cottages that evoke a residential neighborhood character. Occupants can select their preferred floor plan and enjoy the surrounding landscape views.

The home’s care approach spotlights trained, certified support. Associates are certified by the National Institute for Dementia Education, ensuring expertise particularly in memory care. The facility handles extensive medication management, including injections and crushed medications, plus vital signs monitoring and oxygen assistance, making it equipped for residents with more complex medical needs alongside those managing daily living activities. Dining is approached with care and personalization. Menus are thoughtfully crafted to handle individual dietary preferences and needs, recognizing that mealtime is central to daily satisfaction and well-being. Though pets aren’t allowed, The Residence at Otter Creek offers a set of activities, events, and enriching programs all week, providing opportunities for occupants to stay engaged and connected. The location sits in a car-dependent area where a vehicle is required for most errands, but proximity matters: residents are about 1.6 miles from Middlebury’s city center and less than a mile from Porter Medical Center (University of Vermont Health), which is convenient for medical appointments and emergencies.

Contact The Residence at Otter Creek

Overview of Morgan Orchards Senior Living Community

Led by executive director Heather Impey, who brings two decades of senior care experience, Morgan Orchards Senior Living Community serves Randolph Center, Vermont. It offers independent living and nursing home care in a rural setting. It’s located on Tom Wicker Lane in a quiet, car-dependent neighborhood characteristic of the Upper Valley region.

As a dual-purpose facility providing nursing home and independent living choices, Morgan Orchards Senior Living Community is set to meet older adults’ needs at different stages of independence. Pets are welcome, which can provide meaningful companionship for occupants. The Randolph Center location offers the natural beauty and serenity of rural Vermont. Since the area has limited walkability, residents and visitors must plan for personal transportation.

To see the settings firsthand, families wanting to learn more about specific services, daily activities, amenities, and available room types should contact the facility directly or arrange a tour.

Contact Morgan Orchards Senior Living Community

Overview of Gables at East Mountain

Nestled on 37 acres at the base of East Mountain in Rutland, Vermont, The Gables is a charming and attentive independent living community. It provides exceptional accommodations and amenities for senior adults in a casual and friendly environment. The community is surrounded by scenic landscapes, offering residents a tranquil and picturesque setting.
At The Gables, residents can enjoy a worry-free lifestyle with a wide range of services in place. These include a comprehensive dining plan, housekeeping services, maintenance support, transportation assistance, and a wellness program. The dedicated staff’s goal is to ensure that each resident’s retirement is relaxing and enjoyable. The Gables at East Mountain boast an ideal location in the beautiful green mountains of Vermont. It offers a peaceful living experience while also providing access to the conveniences of a small city. Residents can explore theaters, restaurants, farmers’ markets, shopping centers, and other local attractions.

Contact Gables at East Mountain

Overview of Homestead Senior Living

An assisted living and independent living community at 64 Harbor View Drive in St Albans City, Vermont, is Homestead Senior Living. It welcomes pets, making it a good fit for residents wanting their companions nearby. The property sits in a car-dependent area, with a Walk Score of 10, where most daily errands and activities need a vehicle. Nearby walkable options are limited.

The neighborhood character is residential, offering a calmer setting for those preferring less hustle and bustle. Given the location’s car transportation dependence, the facility best suits residents with reliable access to vehicles or family members who can help with transportation needs.

An on-site visit will give you the best sense of the home’s daily culture, housing options, meal service, activities, and care support offered to residents.

Contact Homestead Senior Living

Overview of Vista Senior Living

Vista Senior Living is an exceptional residence nestled in the charming town of Killington, Vermont. This home is a haven that fulfills every senior’s desires, offering a range of services including assisted living for dementia patients and specialized memory care options. Immerse yourself in a supportive environment where professional, fully trained caregivers provide round-the-clock on-site care, specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals with dementia.
In addition, Vista Senior Living offers a range of amenities and services to cater to the needs and preferences of all residents. From comfortable living spaces to beautifully maintained surroundings, every detail is designed with the utmost care to ensure a comfortable and enriching experience. The compassionate team is committed to providing the highest level of support, empowering residents to live life to the fullest. With a focus on creating a warm and engaging atmosphere, Vista Senior Living is a place where cherished memories are made and lasting friendships are formed.

Contact Vista Senior Living

Weighting overview

  • 35%
    Resident Experience
  • 25%
    Regulatory
  • 15%
    Visual Media
  • 10%
    Website
  • 10%
    Stability
  • 5%
    Environment
01

Resident & Family Experience 35%

The single largest share of every ranking. Aggregated review sentiment and volume from major platforms — the closest signal to real resident experience.

  • Includes
  • Review Sentiment
  • Review Volume
02

Regulatory & Safety Record 25%

State inspection records, citations, and complaint visits. We weight per-inspection rates more heavily than raw counts.

  • Includes
  • State Inspections
  • Citations/Inspection
  • % Inspections w/ Citations
  • Complaint Visits
  • Accreditations
  • BBB Rating
03

Visual Media & Transparency 15%

Communities that publish high-quality visuals give families a real preview. No photos or tours = a negative transparency signal.

  • Includes
  • Video Tours
  • Virtual Walkthroughs
  • Photo Quantity
  • Photo Quality
04

Website & Operator Transparency 10%

Site quality and whether the operator publishes basic accountability information — staff names, contact details, ownership.

  • Includes
  • Website Content
  • Mobile Usability
  • Staff Info Available
  • Owner Info Available
05

Community Stability 10%

Operational signals indicating whether a community is well-run and meeting demand.

  • Includes
  • Occupancy Rate
  • Bed Options
06

Environment & Pricing 5%

Walkability and pricing transparency. Walk Score is weighted higher for Independent Living than for Memory Care, where most residents do not leave unaccompanied.

  • Includes
  • Walk Score
  • Pricing Transparency
No paid rankings Communities cannot pay to influence placement.
How we're paid: If we help you find a community and you move in, that community may pay us a referral fee. This never affects where they rank or what you pay. Learn more
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Frequently Asked Questions about Independent Living in Vermont

What is independent living?

Independent living communities are residential settings for active older adults — typically with private apartments or cottages, shared amenities (dining, fitness, activities), and no built-in medical care.

How many independent living communities are listed on this page?

This page features 29 independent living communities in Vermont. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right independent living community in Vermont?

Start by matching the level of care offered to the resident's current and anticipated needs, then compare licensing status, staff-to-resident ratios, recent inspection results, and pricing. Tour at least two or three communities in Vermont, talk to current residents and families, and confirm what is included in the base rate versus billed as add-on services.

What should I look for when visiting independent living communities in Vermont?

Pay attention to staff interactions with residents, cleanliness and odor, food quality at meal times, the activity calendar, and how questions about pricing and care plans are answered. Ask to see the most recent state inspection report, the move-out / level-of-care-change policy, and a sample monthly bill that lists every fee.