Vermont is a wonderful place to live, so it's no surprise that more and more people are choosing to retire here. With low crime, low population density and an abundance of outdoor activities, why would you want to live anywhere else? If you're looking to retire in an area with a variety of activities close by as well as a tight-knit community, these places in Vermont are just the ticket. After all, some of our cities are smaller than towns in other states throughout the U.S.

Yes, the taxes are high in the state of Vermont, but for most people, living in such a wonderful place is worth the price. While every city and town in Vermont has something wonderful and unique, here are 5 cities and 5 towns in Vermont that, according to Movoto and Area Vibes, are especially good for retiring in style.

1. Burlington

You'll love the live entertainment at places like the Flynn Theater and the jazz festival here in Burlington. Stroll down Church Street or enjoy miles of lakefront trails keeping walkers, joggers and cyclists in shape, not to mention numerous ski resorts, including Stowe, Sugarbush, Mad River Glen and Jay Peak, are within easy reach. The grandkids will love the beaches along Lake Champlain, too!

2. Shelburne

Shelburne may be best known to non-residents for the famous Shelburne museum, but it is also full of all the things people look for when choosing a town to settle down. The average cost of living in Shelburne is the same as the Vermont average, and with the museum so close by there is always something to see and do.

3. Bennington

Residents enjoy a laid-back lifestyle with plenty for outdoor lovers to do. The median home price is affordable at $150,100, and the cost of living is lower than the statewide average and much lower than in Vermont’s ski resort areas. Bennington has tennis, golf and nearby ski areas, as well as a lively shopping variety featuring mostly locally owned shops.

4. Old Bennington

An extremely livable small town of just 139 people, Old Bennington boasts high graduation rates, plenty of amenities and low crime. The cost of living is 4% higher than Vermont average and the median household income is $67,821.

5. Montpelier

Montpelier, with just under 8,000 residents, offers all the cultural activity you would expect to find in a state capital, as well as a close knit community more common in smaller towns. Retires will find many opportunities and activities such as pottery classes and seniors yoga. Also, everyone loves the annual film festival!

6. Wilmington

Wilmington has high graduation rates, a low cost of living and lots of local amenities. The average home price is $166,400 and it’s not too big or too small with a population of 1,876. Also, it has some spectacular sunsets!

7. Brattleboro

Brattleboro attracts retirees who just want to live in a cultural mecca, while still surrounding themselves with New England charm. Residents enjoy the social gallery walk the first Friday of each month and the strong sense of community and commitment to helping others is enjoyed by all. There are many ways to get involved and have fun from sitting on local boards to volunteering at the dozens of festivals that take place each year.

8. Essex Junction

One of Vermont’s larger areas with 9,695 residents, Essex Junction is a favorite place to live for many reasons. Its 4% lower cost of living, 20% lower crime rate, and median house price of $248,600 all contribute to making Essex Junction a great place to live along with its close proximity to Burlington.

9. Vergennes

If you're looking for a small city, Vergennes is your place! Vergennes is the smallest of Vermont's nine cities in terms of population, though the city of Winooski covers a smaller area. From museums to the opera house, there are no shortage of places to enjoy. The state parks provide plenty of hiking and open spaces for fresh air and exercise. Vergennes may be small, but it has a lot to offer!

10. Norwich

Norwich is not only beautiful, it's exceptionally livable with lots of local amenities, low crime rates and high graduation rates. Not too big and not too small, the 2010 census reports that 3,414 people call Norwich home.

Would you rather retire in a Vermont city or a small town? Share your thoughts!