by Jennifer Dawson

“More Vermont businesses have become all-remote workplaces”, with numbers increasing by 40% from 2021 to 2022, recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reveals. However, hybrid working arrangements — a mix of in-office and remote working — became less popular as the risk of Covid-19 decreased, falling by one-third in the same timeframe. Offering employees greater flexibility and improved work-life balance — and even boosting sales for local businesses who previously  dealt with slow weekdays — remote work appears to be here to stay in the Green Mountains.  

Responding to labor shortages 

Vermont Chamber of Commerce President Betsy Bishop notes that it’s difficult to keep a solid record on the total current numbers of remote workers statewide, who employs them, and how many began this arrangement in 2020. “We are in a workforce shortage and continue to have that crisis, so employers are trying to be flexible and meet their employees where they’re at. If that means remote work or hybrid work, I think that has continued,” says Bishop. Bishop also notes that as work-from-home arrangements remove geographical barriers, Vermont businesses can benefit from a broader talent pool and potentially better matches. It can also help the state reach its goals of a population increase. Almost 3,000 people moved to Vermont from other states in 2022, following in the footsteps of 14,500 in 2021.

Remote working arrangements can also be beneficial for people with disabilities as barriers in terms of accessibility are eliminated. In particular, the flexible schedule makes it easier for people to deal with medical issues in a private setting. Remote employees with chronic pain can also better manage their condition from the comfort of home. With a well-designed office space with ergonomic furniture, people with chronic pain can relieve discomfort, fatigue, and other symptoms and remain productive throughout the day.  

Challenges for smaller businesses

Nevertheless, the rise of remote work still poses challenges. “Businesses in Vermont are going to have to compete on wages and benefits on a national scale. We’re seeing that already, which is great for the worker but is a challenge for the small business. The larger the business, the more likely they can compete,” says Bishop. The increase in vacant office space throughout the state may also become an issue as leases expire and aren’t renewed. The buildings could possibly be converted into coworking spaces (public or membership-based shared office spaces used by people from different companies) or residential apartments. Vermont is already home to 23 coworking spaces in total. 

Killington Ski Area: a primary residence for remote workers

Some businesses also understand there’s opportunity and money to be made from the changes underfoot. For example, Great Gulf Group — one of the largest homebuilders in North America — recently purchased around 1,100 acres of land by Killington Ski Area, with the aim of building condos, townhomes, single-family homes, shops, and a lift lodge. Great Gulf Group believes the ski resort will be an attractive place of residence for remote workers due to gorgeous scenery combined with easy access to skiing amenities during weekdays year-round. Remote workers will be able to beat the queues and enjoy overall improved quality of life. Indeed, the number of homes for sale in Killington has fallen by over 50% since 2019, while the number of residents in the town have virtually doubled in the last ten years, meaning it’s certainly an in-demand location. 

While hybrid work may be falling out of favor, remote work appears to be here to stay. As the shift in working arrangements continues to reshape workers’ lives and the economy, Vermont looks likely to become a popular primary residence for many.