Hazens, Montpelier, VT

Hazens Neighborhood Overview

Overview

Hazens, named for the historic Hazen Family Farm, is a quiet, primarily residential neighborhood located in the northeastern corner of Montpelier, Vermont. It sits across the Winooski River from the bustling downtown, offering a more suburban feel while remaining just a short walk or bike ride from the state capitol's core. The neighborhood is loosely bounded by the Winooski River to the west, County Road to the north, and the wooded hillsides that characterize much of Montpelier's terrain.

The area's history is rooted in agriculture, with the Hazen family farmstead dating back to the 19th century. This pastoral legacy is still evident in the neighborhood's open spaces and community garden. Today, Hazens is known for its tight-knit community, quiet streets ideal for walking and biking, and its mix of modest single-family homes and larger properties, many with generous yards. It provides a perfect balance for those seeking proximity to Vermont's capital city with a more relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in Hazens is predominantly single-family homes, ranging from classic New England Capes and Colonials to more modern ranch-style houses. Many properties are situated on larger, well-treed lots, offering a sense of privacy and space that is less common in neighborhoods closer to downtown Montpelier. You will also find a smattering of duplexes and smaller multi-unit buildings, particularly along its main thoroughfares.

As a desirable, family-friendly neighborhood with excellent access to schools and recreation, Hazens commands a premium in the Montpelier market. Home prices are typically above the city median, reflecting the lot sizes and the neighborhood's appeal. The market is heavily weighted toward owner-occupants, with a relatively low percentage of rental properties compared to the downtown and college areas. Recent trends show sustained demand, with homes often selling quickly in this sought-after enclave.

Schools & Education

Hazens is part of the Montpelier Roxbury Public School District, which is highly regarded in the state. The neighborhood is notably home to Union Elementary School, a K-5 school that serves as a major community hub. Its location within the neighborhood means many children can walk or bike to school, fostering a strong sense of local connection. Main Street Middle School and Montpelier High School are also conveniently accessible, a short drive or bus ride away.

Beyond the public system, residents have access to several nearby private and independent educational options, including the Montessori School of Central Vermont. The presence of the Vermont College of Fine Arts campus, located just across the river, also contributes to the area's intellectual and cultural atmosphere. The neighborhood's proximity to the Kellogg-Hubbard Library in downtown Montpelier further supports lifelong learning and community programming for all ages.

Parks & Recreation

Hazens is exceptionally well-served by green space and recreational amenities. The crown jewel is the 18-acre Hubbard Park, accessible via a footbridge from the neighborhood, offering extensive hiking and mountain biking trails, a stone tower with panoramic views, and picnic areas. Within the neighborhood itself, the Hazen Community Garden provides plots for residents, and the small but popular Hazen Field offers a playground, basketball court, and open green space for casual sports and gatherings.

The Winooski River, which forms the neighborhood's western boundary, is a central feature for recreation. The Montpelier Bike Path runs along the river, connecting Hazens directly to downtown and beyond, perfect for walking, running, and cycling. In winter, the trails in Hubbard Park are ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. This easy access to both structured parks and natural landscapes is a defining characteristic of life in Hazens.

Local Dining & Shopping

While Hazens itself is primarily residential, its strength lies in its proximity to Montpelier's vibrant downtown commercial district, just a five-minute drive or pleasant walk across the Taylor Street Bridge. Residents enjoy easy access to the city's famed culinary and shopping scene without the hustle and bustle at their doorstep. For immediate daily needs, the neighborhood is served by a couple of small, convenient corner stores.

The nearby North Branch Café, located at the Vermont College of Fine Arts, is a popular local spot for coffee and light fare. For a fuller range of options—from farm-to-table restaurants like Kismet and positive pie to unique boutiques, bookstores, and the Montpelier Farmers Market—residents head downtown. Grocery shopping is conveniently handled at the Shaw's on Barre Street or the Co-op Food Store, both a very short drive from the heart of Hazens.

Who Lives Here

Hazens attracts a mix of young families, established professionals, and long-time residents who value community, outdoor access, and a peaceful living environment. The neighborhood is known for its active and engaged community spirit, often visible at the school playground, community garden, or during neighborhood gatherings. It is a place where people know their neighbors, creating a safe and supportive environment for children to grow up.

The demographic tends to be a blend of state employees, given Montpelier's status as the capital, along with educators, healthcare workers, and professionals working in the broader central Vermont area. Residents are drawn by the perfect balance Hazens strikes: it offers a suburban feel with spacious yards and quiet streets, while maintaining a deeply walkable and bikeable connection to the cultural and civic heart of one of America's most charming small cities.

Hazens Market Data

Top Real Estate Agents in Hazens, Montpelier

Nearby Neighborhoods in Montpelier, VT

← Back to all Montpelier, VT real estate agents

← Back to all Vermont real estate agents