South Burlington VT

South Burlington – Nestled between the scenic Green Mountains and the shores of Lake Champlain, South Burlington offers a perfect mix of Vermont charm and modern convenience. Whether you're enjoying breathtaking lake views, exploring local trails, or shopping at one of the city’s vibrant retail hubs, this welcoming town has a little something for everyone to enjoy.

• Population: ~20,000
• Weather: Four seasons (15-80°F); snowy winters, warm summers, colorful fall foliage.
• Places To Visit: Red Rocks Park, University Mall, Lake Champlain waterfront, Overlook Park, Veterans Memorial Park.
• Top Activities: Biking the recreation path, boating on the lake, shopping local stores, enjoying live music events, skiing nearby slopes.
• Famous Food: Maple-glazed donuts, local craft brews, Vermont cheddar, farm-fresh dishes at The Farmhouse Tap & Grill.

South Burlington, VT, is a growing city known for its strong economy, high quality of life, and proximity to the University of Vermont and Burlington International Airport. Major sectors here include healthcare, education, retail, and technology. Below are five of the most in-demand jobs in South Burlington.

Top 5 Jobs in South Burlington

South Burlington, VT is a hidden gem for students searching for a blend of outdoor relaxation, unique shopping experiences, and chilled-out spaces. Whether you're in the mood for nature jaunts or exploring local culture, this city has plenty to offer.

Red Rocks Park – Nestled by the water, this park offers stunning cliffs, peaceful walking paths, and beautiful views of Lake Champlain. It's a great spot for a relaxing hike or a picnic with friends.

University Mall – If retail therapy is what you need, head over to University Mall. With diverse shops and eateries, it's a fun place to meet up with fellow students and indulge in some shopping.

Lake Champlain Chocolates – For those with a sweet tooth, this local chocolate shop is a must-visit. Sample delicious chocolates and watch how your favorite treats are made. It's a fun and tasty adventure!

Overlook Park – For a quiet spot to unwind or catch up on reading, Overlook Park provides serene landscapes and peaceful surroundings. It's perfect for a solo escape or a laid-back meet-up with friends.

Higher Ground – Looking for live music or a night out? Higher Ground is the go-to venue for concerts and musical performances. Grab your friends and enjoy an unforgettable evening with talented artists and vibrant crowds.

Muddy Waters Cafe – A student favorite, head to this cozy cafe for a warm cup of coffee and an inviting atmosphere. With its bohemian vibe, it's an excellent spot to chill, study, or socialize with new friends.

Echo, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain – Dive into interactive exhibits at this science and nature museum. It's an engaging place to explore with friends or satisfy your curiosity on a solo trip.

South Burlington, Vermont, is a hub for higher education nestled in a scenic and friendly environment. Students in this area benefit from the city's proximity to top-rated colleges and universities with strong offerings in liberal arts, science, technology, and healthcare.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in South Burlington

University of Vermont (UVM) – Located just minutes from South Burlington in Burlington, UVM is Vermont’s flagship public university. It is known for its outstanding programs in environmental science, business, and healthcare, particularly its esteemed Larner College of Medicine.

Community College of Vermont (CCV) – Winooski Campus – Offering accessible and affordable education, CCV’s nearby campus in Winooski provides associate degree programs and professional certifications. Students benefit from small class sizes and flexible course options.

Vermont Technical College – Williston Campus – This public institution focuses on applied learning in technology, engineering, and healthcare. The Williston campus, near South Burlington, offers designated pathways into high-demand STEM careers through hands-on training and certifications.

Champlain Valley Union High School – Early College Program – While technically a high school, this program partners with public colleges to let high school students in South Burlington begin earning college credits early, effectively starting their college education through public institutions.

Vermont State University** (formerly part of Castleton University) – While not directly based in South Burlington, the newly unified Vermont State University offers hybrid, online, and in-person options accessible to residents in the area, with strengths in education, social work, and business.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in South Burlington

Champlain College – Located just next to South Burlington, Champlain is a private college known for its career-focused programs in cybersecurity, digital forensics, game design, and business. Its innovative curriculum blends liberal arts with practical experience.

Saint Michael’s College – This private Catholic liberal arts college is located in Colchester, adjacent to South Burlington. It is well-known for programs in education, environmental studies, and the humanities, as well as strong community engagement and study-abroad opportunities.

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences – Vermont Campus – Though a satellite campus, this private institution allows students in South Burlington access to top-ranking pharmacy and health science programs, preparing them for careers in healthcare and research.

Burlington College (Legacy) – While Burlington College closed in 2016, it once played a key role in South Burlington’s higher education community. It was known for its liberal arts and individualized learning experiences.

Hesser College (closed but formerly nearby) – Previously offering business, legal studies, and healthcare programs, Hesser College had a presence near Vermont that students from South Burlington accessed prior to its closure.

South Burlington, VT, offers a close-knit educational environment with strong academic values. Known for its commitment to excellence and student development, both public and private schools in the area prepare young learners for success in college and beyond.

Top Public High Schools In South Burlington, VT

• South Burlington High School – The city's main public high school, known for its strong academics, arts, and athletic programs. The school emphasizes community values and college preparation.
• Burlington High School – Located nearby in Burlington, this school offers a diverse student body and strong International Baccalaureate (IB) programs to prepare students for global learning.
• Champlain Valley Union High School – Just outside South Burlington in Hinesburg, CVU is praised for its modern curriculum, design thinking approach, and supportive learning environment.
• Essex High School – A technology-forward school that offers STEM-focused programs and a range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses for college-bound students.
• Colchester High School – Known for its dedicated staff and community involvement, the school offers a balance of academics, athletics, and extracurricular opportunities.

Top Private High Schools In South Burlington, VT

• Rice Memorial High School – A Roman Catholic school offering college prep education rooted in faith and leadership. It provides strong academic and spiritual programs for students in grades 9-12.
• Rock Point School – Located in nearby Burlington, this private boarding and day school focuses on hands-on learning and wellness, serving students who benefit from small class sizes and individualized support.
• Union Memorial School (Preparatory Program) – Though focused on younger grades, Union offers strong feeder programs into Vermont’s top private high schools and supports long-term academic development.
• Vermont Commons School – Located in South Burlington, this independent school offers a challenging curriculum that emphasizes global citizenship and experiential education for middle and high school students.
• Mater Christi School (Upper Grades) – A faith-based school offering advanced coursework in middle grades that prepares students for success in private high school programs.

South Burlington, Vermont is a vibrant and growing city, but unlike larger metropolitan areas, it does not host any major league professional sports teams. However, it is a hub for local sports and is close to regional teams that bring excitement to the local sports scene.

🏒 Hockey – Vermont Catamounts (NCAA Division I)

• Vermont Catamounts Men’s Ice Hockey – Based just a short drive from South Burlington in Burlington, the University of Vermont’s men’s ice hockey team plays at Gutterson Fieldhouse. Competing in Hockey East, the team has developed several NHL players and draws enthusiastic crowds from all around Chittenden County.
• Vermont Catamounts Women’s Ice Hockey – The women’s team also competes in Hockey East and has steadily grown in competitiveness, offering a great experience for local fans who support collegiate athletics.

⚽ Soccer – Vermont Green FC (USL League Two)

• Vermont Green FC – Founded in 2021, Vermont Green FC plays at Virtue Field in Burlington and competes in USL League Two. This elite development league draws college players during their off-season. The team’s commitment to environmental causes and community engagement has quickly built a passionate fan base in and around South Burlington.

⚾ Baseball – Vermont Lake Monsters (Futures League)

• Vermont Lake Monsters – Formerly a Minor League Baseball affiliate, the Lake Monsters now play in the Futures Collegiate Baseball League. Their home games at Centennial Field in nearby Burlington offer affordable family fun throughout the summer. The team has a rich history and is a beloved part of the local sports scene.

🏀 Basketball & 🏈 Football – Regional Interest

• South Burlington residents often support collegiate teams like the UVM Catamounts men's and women’s basketball programs, both of which compete in the America East Conference and have made NCAA tournament appearances.
• For professional football and basketball, fans in South Burlington typically follow regional and national teams, with many supporting the New England Patriots (NFL) and the Boston Celtics (NBA), given the city's proximity to the Boston area.

While South Burlington may not have major professional teams, its local teams and strong regional ties offer sports fans plenty of opportunities to get involved and cheer for their favorite clubs.

South Burlington, Vermont may be a small city, but it's packed with charm, beauty, and plenty of interesting quirks. From scenic views to local favorites, here are 10 fun facts about South Burlington:

1. Home to Lake Champlain – South Burlington lies along the stunning eastern shore of Lake Champlain, offering breathtaking sunsets and plenty of water activities.
2. Birthplace of Ben & Jerry’s – The iconic ice cream company Ben & Jerry’s started in South Burlington in 1978 before moving to nearby Waterbury.
3. Named for the ‘South’ of Burlington – South Burlington was created in 1865 when it separated from the city of Burlington, its neighbor to the north.
4. Lots of Parks – South Burlington has over 10 city parks, making it a great place for hiking, biking, and outdoor fun year-round.
5. One of Vermont’s Most Populated Cities – Despite its quiet vibe, South Burlington is the second most populous city in Vermont, right after Burlington.
6. Healthy City Living – The city is known for its active lifestyle. You’ll find lots of bike lanes and walking trails all over South Burlington.
7. Home to Higher Education – South Burlington is close to the University of Vermont and several colleges, giving the area a youthful, lively feel.
8. Civic Center is a Local Favorite – The South Burlington Public Library and City Hall opened a new shared building in 2021, creating a fresh, central hub for the community.
9. Plane Spotting Heaven – The city sits right near Burlington International Airport, making it popular for aviation fans who enjoy watching planes take off and land.
10. Don’t Miss Church Street – Just a few minutes away, the Church Street Marketplace in Burlington is one of the most visited outdoor pedestrian malls in the Northeast, often enjoyed by South Burlington residents.