Data help us to understand where we are and how we got here, but data isn’t destiny. That was one of the core principles behind the Economic Action Plan, and it is also why the Vermont Futures Project has developed this Competitiveness Dashboard. It is a compilation of a range of economic indicators that show where Vermont ranks relative to the region and the nation as a whole. Rankings are sorted from #1 representing the highest relative performance to #50 or #51 representing the lowest relative performance.
Though the data reveal some strengths, there are far more areas that need urgent attention. The dashboard also serves as a basis for comparative analysis. Decision makers can use it to identify and investigate strategies and policies from states that are outcompeting Vermont.
This Competitiveness Dashboard is a reality check for Vermont and a call to action. Where we go as a state from here is a choice – one that can and should be informed by this data. If ignored, the trendlines will continue and data will become destiny.
***Want to share data visualizations from the dashboard, or use them in your own work? You are welcome to do so! We just ask that you credit the Vermont Futures Project, and let us know if you have questions before you use them. If you are adding them to publications, blogs, or media, we also appreciate learning where they have been used. Please consider sending a copy or link to us at kchu@vtfuturesproject.org.***
Primary Economic Action Plan Indicators: People & Places
The long-term growth targets are to increase Vermont’s population to 802,000 by increasing the number or working-age adults, and to increase the number of non-seasonal housing units to 350,000. Growth of people and places are lagging indicators of impactful economic strategies. The recommendations in the Economic Action Plan serve as a starting point to effect change. The other metrics in this competitiveness dashboard highlight other opportunities for Vermont to improve its economic future.
Status = 648,493 Total People
Goal = 802,000 by 2035
Status = 285,548 Occupied Homes
Goal = 350,000 by 2035
Composite Indices
The following rankings are third party analyses that each combine multiple datasets in developing a topical index.