Vermont Residents Backed Proposed Second Home Tax
A recent public poll showed majority support for a new yearly tax on second homes in the state.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Home Organization
Live Poll
Should states impose a new yearly tax on second homes?
A Vermont Public poll found that 57% of state residents support implementing a new yearly tax on second homes. Supporters hope the measure could boost state revenue while helping to increase year-round housing availability.
Why it matters
The proposal addresses the state's tight housing market by potentially converting vacation properties into year-round homes. The debate highlights ongoing tensions between seasonal tourism and the need for residential infrastructure.
A Department of Taxes analysis identified 70,000 properties that could be subject to the tax, while the Vermont Housing Finance Agency estimated 35,500 of those are suitable for year-round habitation.
The players
Vermont Public
This is a non-profit media organization providing news, radio, and television services across the state of Vermont.
Vermont Housing Finance Agency
This state agency works to finance and promote affordable housing opportunities for Vermonters.
Vermont Department of Taxes
This state department is responsible for the administration and collection of tax revenue in Vermont.
The details
Democratic-leaning respondents showed the strongest support at 70%, compared to 54% of independent voters and 43% of Republican-leaning residents. The initiative aims to capitalize on existing housing stock to address current residential shortages.
Timeline
The U.S. Census Bureau began counting vacation homes in the 1940s.
The Vermont Housing Finance Agency conducted property analysis earlier this year.
Vermont Public released the poll results in September 2026.
Roadmap
This move signals a shift in state property policy that moves beyond the traditional U.S. Census Bureau vacation home classifications established in the 1940s. It places Vermont at the forefront of states attempting to regulate housing usage through targeted tax legislation.
For residents who own multiple properties, this tax would likely require adjustments to annual household budgets. Conversely, potential homebuyers could see more inventory become available as owners potentially reconsider maintaining second homes in the state.
The takeaway
The poll results indicate a significant cultural shift toward prioritizing year-round occupancy over seasonal property usage. Residents looking to buy property in the state should monitor future legislative sessions for specific tax implementation details.
Further reading
Learn more about local housing initiatives and policies in the Vermont Home Organization section.
Live Poll
Should states impose a new yearly tax on second homes?
