A new report puts Vermont at the top when it comes to finding fresh, local food—and it’s not even close. A recent analysis by Escoffier looked at how easy it is to access local food in each U.S. state, factoring in the number of CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture programs), farmers’ markets per capita, and the value of direct-to-consumer (DTC) food sales. All the data was adjusted for population to measure true access—not just size. And when the final scores were tallied, Vermont came out swinging.
With more CSAs and DTC food sales per capita than anywhere else in the country, Vermont earned the highest overall score for local food accessibility. The Green Mountain State’s deep-rooted culture of supporting small-scale farming and seasonal eating makes it a national standout—and a model for other states trying to connect more people with fresh, local fare.
What’s behind Vermont’s top score?
This isn’t just about local maple syrup and cheddar, but there’s plenty of that to go around. The state’s top ranking comes from a long-standing commitment to agricultural resilience and community-based food systems.
From farm stands to food co-ops, local food isn’t a trend here—it’s how people eat. CSAs are commonplace, and many residents receive weekly produce shares straight from nearby farms. If you’re just getting started, here’s a helpful guide for farmers market first timers—from what to bring to how to shop with confidence. Vermont also has some of the strongest per-capita spending on direct-from-farm goods, meaning people aren’t just buying local—they’re doing it often and that support pays off. Farmers in Vermont can rely on a consistent, community-based customer base, while residents benefit from fresher food, fewer supply chain issues, and a closer connection to where their food comes from.
Oregon and Maine also rank high, here’s why
Oregon and Maine round out the top three, with robust support for farmers’ markets, small-scale agriculture, and regional food hubs. In both states, local food culture is more than just a farmers market visit—it’s baked into daily life. Maine, known for its blueberries, seafood, and tight-knit food networks, has long supported its rural farmers through strong DTC programs. Meanwhile, Oregon’s progressive food policies and booming urban markets help bring local produce into city neighborhoods and beyond.
California has the most farmers’ markets—but that’s not the whole story
While California leads in sheer volume with the most farmers’ markets overall, the state ranks lower per capita due to its large population. Access, in this case, is about density—not just numbers. Still, California plays a huge role in the national food system, and its local food infrastructure—from organic farms to urban market networks—remains one of the most expansive in the country.
Why this matters now
As food costs fluctuate and climate change stresses national supply chains, interest in local food has only grown. People want to know where their food comes from—and how it’s grown. And in places like Vermont, Oregon, and Maine, the answers are right around the corner.
Whether it’s joining a CSA, shopping your neighborhood market, or sourcing from nearby growers, access to local food isn’t just a feel-good bonus—it’s a vital part of food security. Want to support your own local food scene? Start by getting ready for the farmers market and making the most of your haul once you’re home. And states that make it easier are setting the tone for what sustainable eating can look like in the years ahead.