ontpelier is a unique, small-town yet cosmopolitan city that offers an outstanding environment in which to live, work, and visit. Despite its relatively small population, Montpelier offers amenities similar to larger cities due to the large influx of people during the work day, its strong economic base, and role as the seat of state government. Its location in the Winooski River Valley contributes to a setting where the State House and surrounding historic neighborhoods are framed by wooded hillsides. The confluence of the North Branch River and the Winooksi River in the heart of the downtown and the abundance of buildings on the National Register for Historic Places helps remind us of the city's early history while providing a delightful respite from the what might be considered an urban atmosphere.

No other state capital in the country is as surrounded by historic residential neighborhoods and accessible to its citizens as in Monptelier. Likewise, Montpelier's local government is highly accessible to citizens, both physically and through technologies such as this Web site.

Montpelier is a compact, walkable city with sidewalks, bike paths, and trails and more planned. A thriving arts and cultural niche help sustain a remarkable number and diversity of restaurants to enjoy. Montpelier has four independently-owned book stores and four independently-owned music stores. The city's thriving downtown is also the largest single National Register for Historic Places District in Vermont. The housing stock is diverse, with housing to fit all income levels and tastes, and is bolstered by several governmental and non-profit organizations working to ensure an adequate supply of affordable housing.

In addition to the tools already in place, Montpelier's Conservation Commission, the Friends of the Winooski, and numerous other organizations are actively ensuring the protection of Montpelier's diverse and highly valued natural resources. Its existing park and other public lands are unparalelled for a community of this size--they have to be experienced to be believed.

Education in Montpelier is high caliber and abundant. Not only do its five colleges help make it a place for adult learning and higher education, the local school system is renowned for its quality.

In February 2004, Montpelier was named among the top 10 best places to do business in the country!

Page updated March 14, 2004