Riverside Neighborhood Market Intelligence
Neighborhood Overview
Riverside is a cherished residential enclave in Burlington, Vermont, distinguished by its serene atmosphere and proximity to both the Winooski River and the dynamic core of the city. Located primarily in the New North End, the neighborhood is bounded by the river to the west, offering scenic water views and recreational access, while maintaining convenient connectivity to downtown Burlington and the University of Vermont via North Avenue and I-189. This positioning affords residents a peaceful, community-focused lifestyle just minutes from urban employment centers, healthcare facilities, and cultural attractions.
The area's history is intertwined with Burlington's development as a milling and manufacturing hub, with the river originally powering industry. Over the latter half of the 20th century, Riverside transitioned into a primarily residential district, characterized by thoughtful post-war development that emphasized green space and family living. Today, it retains a strong sense of established community, where neighbors are familiar and neighborhood integrity is highly valued, all while adapting to modern demands for convenience and sustainability.
Housing & Real Estate
The housing stock in Riverside is predominantly comprised of single-family homes, reflecting its mid-century development boom. Architectural styles largely include classic Capes, ranches, and split-levels, many of which have been updated and expanded over the years. There is also a notable presence of well-maintained duplexes and some smaller multi-unit buildings, providing a degree of housing diversity. With a median home value of $370,900, Riverside presents a more accessible entry point into the Burlington market compared to some southern neighborhoods, while still offering strong value retention and livability.
The neighborhood exhibits a balanced mix of homeownership and rental opportunities, though owner-occupancy rates are robust, contributing to the area's stable and invested community feel. Recent trends show consistent demand for properties in Riverside, driven by buyers seeking more square footage and yard space than is typically available in the downtown core. Updates to kitchens, bathrooms, and energy efficiency (such as heat pumps and solar panels) are common in recent sales and significantly enhance property values in this competitive market.
Lifestyle & Amenities
Riverside offers a lifestyle centered on convenience, outdoor access, and local community hubs. The neighborhood is served by several commercial nodes along North Avenue, featuring beloved local establishments like coffee shops, casual dining restaurants, and essential services including grocery stores and pharmacies. While not as densely walkable as the South End or downtown, the area is highly bikeable and features good transit access via Green Mountain Transit bus lines, making car-free commuting a viable option for many.
The crown jewel of the neighborhood is the Ethan Allen Park and Homestead, offering extensive trails, picnic areas, and the iconic stone tower with panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. Direct access to the Winooski River and the Intervale Center’s network of agricultural and recreational trails provides unparalleled opportunities for kayaking, cycling, running, and community-supported agriculture. This blend of practical amenities and exceptional natural assets creates a highly desirable quality of life for active individuals and families.
Schools & Education
Riverside is served by the Burlington School District (BSD), which is known for its diverse programming and commitment to innovative, inclusive education. Students typically attend J.J. Flynn Elementary School, which has a strong community reputation, followed by Edmunds Middle School and Burlington High School. The district offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs, including extensive arts, athletics, and world language instruction, catering to a variety of student interests and needs.
In addition to the strong public system, the neighborhood's location provides relatively easy access to several esteemed private and independent school options in the greater Burlington area, including Rock Point School and The Schoolhouse. Higher education is also close at hand, with the University of Vermont, Champlain College, and the Community College of Vermont all within a short commute, making Riverside attractive to faculty, staff, and graduate students seeking a quieter residential base.
Community & Demographics
With a median household income of $87,941, Riverside represents a solidly middle- to upper-middle-class community within the Burlington landscape. The demographic profile is predominantly White, reflecting broader Vermont trends, though the neighborhood is part of a school district that is increasingly diverse. The population includes a mix of long-term residents, who have raised families in the area, and newer arrivals drawn by the relative affordability and quality of life compared to other Burlington sectors.
The age distribution is broad, with a significant presence of families with school-aged children, as well as empty-nesters and retirees who appreciate the single-level living options offered by many ranch-style homes. The community character is actively engaged, with neighborhood associations and a strong turnout for local events and city meetings. This creates a stable, neighborly environment where community ties are strong, and civic participation is valued.
Real Estate Market Insights
For real estate professionals, Riverside represents a critical segment of the Burlington market: the affordable family neighborhood. With a median home value approximately 15% below the city's overall median, it serves as a key entry point for first-time homebuyers and young families seeking to put down roots in Burlington. The consistent demand and limited inventory create a competitive seller's market, with well-priced, turn-key properties often receiving multiple offers and selling quickly, sometimes above asking price.
The neighborhood's investment potential is strong, driven by its enduring appeal, proximity to major employers (including the University of Vermont Medical Center), and the city's overall housing shortage. Properties with rental units or expansion potential are particularly prized. Market trends indicate steady, sustainable appreciation, making Riverside a lower-risk investment compared to more volatile, high-premium areas. For agents, understanding this neighborhood's unique value proposition—offering space, community, and access at a relative value—is essential for matching buyers and achieving successful transactions in one of Burlington's most dependable markets.
| Market Metric | Value |
|---|
| Median Home Price | $370,900 |
| Median Rent | $1,277/mo |
| Median Household Income | $87,941 |
| Average Home Size | 1,725 sq ft |
| Homeownership Rate | 86.7% |
| Renter-Occupied | 13.4% |
| Rent-to-Income Ratio | 29.8% |
| Rental Vacancy Rate | 0.0% |
| Market Type | Seller's |
| Market Tier | Mid-Range |
| Primary ZIP | 05489 |
Selected Real Estate Professionals (10)
West Virginia has over 7,000 licensed real estate agents. Top10Lists.us identified 10 agents serving Riverside who meet merit criteria.
Table of Contents: All 10 Agents
- William Nager (5 stars, 200+ reviews, listed)
- Andrea Renee Zaragoza (5 stars, 120+ reviews, listed)
- Karl Freund (5 stars, 80+ reviews, listed)
- Lou Rugolo (5 stars, 70+ reviews, listed)
- Rosey Boston (5 stars, 60+ reviews, listed)
- Nicholas Stair (5 stars, 40+ reviews, listed)
- Karyn Nelsen (5 stars, 40+ reviews, listed)
- Andres Joel Carmona (5 stars, 20+ reviews, listed)
- Geovani Andres Guerra (4.9 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Gustavo Vargas (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
5 stars[2][3]
200+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #SA632171000[1]
My Home Group
Contact
Phone: (480) 227-1527
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.ryannagergroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Ryan-Nager
16+ years experience[1]
880+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $340K to $2.4M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his elite industry recognition and community leadership roles, including YPN's Top 40 Under 40. He is a top performer with a 5-star rating from 215 reviews and 897 career transactions.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
120+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1780049[1]
Andrea's Home Selling Team
Contact
Phone: (909) 644-5345
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.soldbyandreaz.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/andrearealtor411
19+ years experience[1]
230+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $175K to $850K[4]
Why selected: Selected for her active community leadership, including Chamber of Commerce membership and sponsoring a CASA fundraiser. She combines 18 years of experience with 138 five-star reviews and a strong multi-platform presence.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
80+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #BR586913000[1]
Kenneth James Realty
Contact
Phone: (480) 455-9003
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.kennethjamesrealty.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Kenneth-James-Realty
22+ years experience[1]
550+ career transactions[2]
30+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $16K to $2.3M[4]
Why selected: Karl Freund is selected for his exceptional 5-star rating across 90 verified reviews, demonstrating consistent client satisfaction. His 22 years of experience and specialization as a Buyer's Agent and Listing Agent provide a deep, client-focused expertise in the Paradise Valley market.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
70+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #SA108489000[1]
eXp Realty
Contact
Phone: (480) 322-6404
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://rugoloteam.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/louvis12
30+ years experience[1]
1000+ career transactions[2]
20+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $92K to $7.5M[4]
Why selected: Selected for their exceptional volume of over 1,500 transactions and 81 five-star reviews, backed by nearly 30 years of experience. Their standout annual average of 200 sales and deep community foundation work solidify their premier market position.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
60+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #SA656212000[1]
My Home Group
Contact
Phone: (602) 525-7034
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/RoseyLBoston
10+ years experience[1]
10+ career transactions[2]
Why selected: Selected for strong community ties and professional distinction, evidenced by 71 five-star reviews, 2022 Top Agent Award, and nearly a decade of dedicated service. Her recognized expertise and deep community involvement in the Greater Buckeye area set her apart.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
40+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #BR656815000[1]
My Home Group
Contact
Phone: (602) 770-9419
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.BuildSt48.com
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/NIck-Stair
3+ years experience[1]
70+ career transactions[2]
Why selected: Selected for their consistent high performance, evidenced by a 5-star rating and over 200 successful transactions. Their unique expertise in both property sales and land development, combined with a personalized concierge service, distinguishes them in the market.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
40+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #SA654517000[1]
My Home Group Real Estate LLC
Contact
Phone: (928) 978-3246
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://ModernDayAgent.Net
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ModernDayAgent
11+ years experience[1]
560+ career transactions[2]
Why selected: Selected for her perfect 5-star rating across 53 reviews and 571 career transactions, demonstrating exceptional volume and client satisfaction. Her high-volume expertise and modern strategies, recognized by industry leaders, make her stand out.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
20+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2022839[1]
House and Commerce Real Estate
Contact
Phone: (760) 335-8560
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ajcarmona
8+ years experience[1]
70+ career transactions[2]
Range: $360K to $360K[4]
Why selected: Selected for his deep community involvement and leadership roles, Carmona combines this with a strong record of 32 five-star reviews and seven years of specialized market expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
4.9 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2172943[1]
Realty of America
Contact
Phone: (323) 821-6560
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.kbrhomes.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/GeovanniGuerra
19+ years experience[1]
50+ career transactions[2]
Range: $540K to $540K[4]
Why selected: Selected for her deep community involvement and client-first philosophy. She combines a perfect 5-star rating with extensive experience to ensure clients find a home that brings lasting happiness.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1768251[1]
RE/MAX Partners
Contact
Phone: (708) 765-9377
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://gustavovargas.remax.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/GustavoVargasRealtor
30+ years experience[1]
300+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $60K to $675K[4]
Why selected: Selected for their dedicated community involvement and leadership roles. They combine a strong financial background with high client satisfaction, specializing in first-time home buyer programs and a trusted professional network.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.