R
ural Vermont is often romanticized as a picturesque haven, but the reality is more nuanced. Unkempt fields and disheveled cows are common sights, separated from scarred pavement by flimsy wooden fences. The air reeks of ammonia and sulfur, courtesy of the cows, and back roads toss up rocks and dirt that coat your lungs like ash. As a Vermonter who's now living in Boston, I've developed a cynical perspective on my hometown's slow pace and rural charm.

    In contrast, Boston is a city in constant motion. Horns and sirens pierce the air, construction projects are endless, and the streets are always bustling with people. The population of Boston has grown by 1.3 percent since 2023, while Vermont's population has declined by 0.3 percent over the same period. There's a significant wealth gap between the two states, with 18 percent of Vermont households living in poverty compared to 10.4 percent in Massachusetts.

    Vermont's low birth rate and high elderly population have contributed to a steady exodus of young adults, many of whom leave for college or careers elsewhere. The state's high cost of living and lack of affordable housing options have also driven people away. According to LendingTree, Vermont has the second-highest home vacancy rate in the country, with over 20 percent of homes sitting empty.

    In contrast, Boston is a hub of activity, with old brownstones and row houses lining narrow streets. The average home value in Boston is $804,062, compared to $417,766 in Hartford, Vermont. Renting in Boston can be expensive, but everything is within walking distance, from the ER to coffee shops and social hotspots.

    As a 21-year-old college student, I've found that Boston's fast-paced lifestyle suits me better than rural Vermont's slow pace. While I miss the peaceful silence of my hometown, there's no place like returning home to crickets and frogs chirping under a starry sky.