Essex Junction sits just five miles east of Burlington, making it one of Vermont's best-kept secrets for renters who want breathing room without losing access to a lively city. The Winooski River winds nearby, and Mount Mansfield State Forest stretches out to the east, offering hiking, Nordic skiing, bouldering, and camping across more than 44,000 acres of mountain terrain. Daily life here has a grounded, small-town feel, with boutique shops, antique stores, and consignment finds along streets that don't feel rushed. The Champlain Valley Fair, a beloved 10-day annual event hosted at the Champlain Valley Expo, brings live music, exhibits, and carnival energy to the area each summer. Amtrak also runs a station here, connecting residents to the broader region without a car.

The rental market in Essex Junction offers a solid range of options, from garden-style apartment communities to townhomes and newer multi-unit buildings.