The Vine

Burlington, Vermont, tops the list of America’s healthiest cities, according to a recent report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Among U.S. metropolitan areas, Burlington has the largest proportion of people—92 percent—who say they are in good or great health. It’s also among the best in exercise and among the lowest in obesity, diabetes and other measures of ill health.

This comes as no surprise to Vine member, blog contributor, and Burlington resident Andrea Learned. Her take on the local scene:

“I rarely come across people who don’t get involved in some major fitness or outdoor activity all year long (skiing or snowboarding are pretty much a given, for one). The “local first” perspective started way before it became trendy, and includes the availability of beef and poultry from farms, literally down the road. We have an incredibly walkable/bikeable downtown area, and with this economic downturn, the sidewalks and lakeside bike path are getting more packed (well – at least in the summer/fall months).

Finally – I think Burlington has this “so glad to be here” feel because so many people moved away from big city life for an idyllic existence and found it. Mind you – you’ve got to be willing to deal with extreme weather and a flight connection most places you want to travel – but otherwise, it often feels like Mayberry.”

Photo by mrbula