Rutland, VT, United States

Capital City

With a population of just 15,807, Rutland is the third largest city in Vermont, but it's hardly a bustling metropolis. The downtown area is quaint and historic, but the real draw is the abundance of outdoor recreation - if you don't mind the bone-chilling winters. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the city split into multiple districts for representation. Still, the Rutland Regional Medical Center is the state's second-largest healthcare facility, providing a solid economic anchor. For those looking to escape the rat race and embrace a slower pace of life, Rutland could be an appealing option.