Burlington STEM Wages Soar as City Ranks Among Fastest-Rising Hubs

New data shows STEM worker pay in Burlington has jumped nearly 38% since 2019, outpacing most U.S. cities.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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A new report highlights Burlington, Vermont as one of the top small metro areas in the country for STEM wage growth, with salaries for science and tech workers rising nearly 38% from 2019 to 2024. The article places Burlington in a national context of booming STEM degrees and jobs, outlining where demand for these skills is highest across the U.S. and abroad.

Why it matters

The surge in STEM wages in Burlington reflects the city's growing reputation as a hub for innovation and technology, attracting top talent and investment. However, the rapid pay increases also raise concerns about housing affordability and cost-of-living challenges for local residents.

The details

According to the report, STEM workers in Burlington have seen their wages jump nearly 38% over the past five years, putting the city among the top small metros nationwide for STEM pay growth. This trend is part of a broader national boom in science and tech degrees and jobs, with employers across the U.S. and globally competing for in-demand STEM skills.

  • The report analyzed STEM wage growth from 2019 to 2024.

The players

Burlington, Vermont

A small city in northwestern Vermont that has emerged as a growing hub for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) jobs and innovation.

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The takeaway

The surge in STEM wages in Burlington highlights the city's rising profile as a technology and innovation center, but also raises concerns about the affordability challenges this growth may bring for local residents.