East Montpelier

Originally part of Montpelier, East Montpelier was set off as its own town in 1848 when residents on the eastern side felt their needs were being overshadowed by the capital village. The split was amicable enough, and East Montpelier developed its own identity as a farming community in the hills above the Winooski River. The town center sits at a crossroads along Route 2, marked by a cluster of municipal buildings and the Old Meeting House.

About 2,660 people live in East Montpelier today. The town functions as a rural residential community with strong ties to Montpelier and Barre, both just minutes away. Active farms, including several well-known dairy and vegetable operations, keep the landscape open. East Montpelier has gained attention for its thoughtful approach to town planning and land conservation. The annual Town Meeting in March is a well-attended affair, reflecting a community that takes its civic responsibilities seriously and values the direct participation that Vermont's town meeting system makes possible.