[oxymoron]

I have read that the average home price in Burlington is $460,000 and that the cost of living is through the roof. Also, a cost of living comparison shows that if we make $70,000 here in North Florida, we will have to make $102,000 to maintain the same lifestyle in the Burlington area. Is it really this expensive?!

My husband and I are both teachers. We have two school-age children. Can teachers afford a decent lifestyle in Burlington? Are teaching jobs available. pentiful, or hard to get?

I have read that Burlington is a beautiful area with tons of year-round recreational opportunity. We've lived all over, so we know the "perfect" place doesn't exist, but the pros do need to outweigh the cons AND we have to be able to afford to live there.

[chaz longue]

oxymoron -

I'm happy to report you've heard wrong

The Average sale price of a Single Family Home in February of 07 in Chittenden County, was $321,649.
And there are presently 187 Single Family Homes on the market offered for LESS than that.

The average sale price of a condo/townhouse in Chittenden County in February of 07, was $228,881. There are 124 on the market right now offered for LESS than that amount.

Yes - the cost of living is higher. And yes - Teachers can have a very nice life here, I know a few dozen. You'll want to enjoy having at least 4 seasons, and you'll have to adapt to slower drivers and less traffic and crime, I'm guessing.

Have a look at the rest of the VT posts. You'll find there's a lot of information in there, and a stark difference of opinions about VT in general. I'd be pretty unhappy most other places, but it's not for everybody.

Holler if I can help,
David

[pucabear]

There are teaching jobs, but unless you are "specialized" you will have to work your way in. What type of teachers are you?

[oxymoron]

Thanks to those of you who have posted responses. It's good to know it's not quite as pricey as we thought.

I am certified in both English and Social Studies. I have a J.D. as well. My husband is certified Social Studies and Middle Grades Integrated (I don't know what the VT equivalent of that would be, but it means he can teach Middle School Math, Science, Social Studies or English here). When we move, I'll have four years experience. He will have three.

What does "specialized" mean in VT?