A recent study highlights that residents in Vermont are facing challenges in meeting essential expenses such as housing, healthcare, and food, even as their wages have risen. The report, titled “State of Working Vermont,” released by the Public Assets Institute, assesses the current economic conditions affecting the state’s inhabitants.

The findings indicate that the financial relief measures implemented during the pandemic have mostly ended. Despite an increase in payrolls, the rising costs of living are surpassing the thresholds defined as adequate earnings for a sustainable lifestyle in Vermont.

According to the executive director of the Public Assets Institute, the current economic climate is characterized by uncertainty driven by federal policies, which have adverse effects on families that are already struggling. Looking forward, as the legislative session approaches with limited financial resources, there is a suggestion for lawmakers to consider imposing new taxes on higher-income individuals to offset the fiscal impact of generous tax exemptions from recent legislation known as the Big Beautiful Bill.