What Makes Vermont One of the Healthiest States
Why is Vermont one of the least obese states in mainland USA?
I lived there for nearly a year as a Brit—and the longer I stayed, the more I began to understand why. It wasn’t just the scenery, the snow, or the fact that everything looked like a postcard.
It was the little things that added up.
The way people lived. The choices they made every day, without even realising how healthy those choices were.
Here’s what I picked up from my time there:
1. The Landscape Encourages Movement
Vermont isn’t the kind of place where you sit still for long. When you’re surrounded by mountains, forests, and open trails, staying active becomes second nature.
I’d often find myself going on long hikes without even thinking of it as “exercise.” It was just what you did, especially on weekends.
Skiing, walking, trail runs, cycling… the options were everywhere. And that adds up over time.
2. Movement is Built Into Transportation
In areas like Burlington (highest population density), people walk a lot. There’s good public transport, bike lanes, and a general culture that supports getting around without needing to sit in a car 24/7.
It reminded me a bit of life in different parts of Europe, where walking is just part of the day, not a special event. That alone adds a surprising amount of daily movement.
3. Food Culture is Different
Locally sourced. Organic. Home-grown. Farmers’ markets. You hear these terms a lot, and they mean something in Vermont.
I noticed that many foods people reached for—vegetables, fruit, lean meats, eggs, and dairy—were filling and nutrient-rich.
Especially protein. And if you’re unsure how to increase your protein intake? Grab my free Protein Cheat Sheet by clicking here—it’s helped hundreds of people increase theirs.
4. Small State, Strong Community
Vermont’s low population density means tight-knit communities. It felt like people actually knew each other.
Health-related habits—like group hikes, shared meals, or even swapping garden veggies—spread through social circles in an organic way. And when your social environment supports healthy habits, it’s much easier to stick with them.
5. Socioeconomic Advantage
Vermont has one of the lowest poverty rates in the US. That matters more than people think.
Higher incomes often mean better access to healthcare, quality food, and wellness resources. It also usually means less chronic stress, a huge factor in long-term health.
Combine that with everything else above, and the picture makes sense.
Fun Fact to Finish
Montpelier, Vermont’s capital, is the only U.S. state capital without a McDonald’s. Wild, right? 🤯
Overall, I didn’t expect to fall in love with Vermont like I did.
But by the end of my stay, I left feeling like I’d learned something important: Everything feels easier when health is built into your lifestyle, not something you have to force or micromanage.
If you liked this breakdown and want more fitness, workout, health, and nutrition content (with a bit of personality), make sure you drop me a follow on one of the following platforms:
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Speak soon,
Leo
