I  like statistics… especially when they mean something.  Below are some random Vermont stats that popped up on my radar.

Pets > Children?

Vermont ranks 2nd lowest in fertility rate.  According to the CDC’s 2012 data, Vermont’s fertility rate is 51.6 per 1,000 women ages 15-44. Compare that to a national fertility rate of 63, New Hampshire’s lowest rate of 50.2, and  Utah’s top rate of 83.6.  Not surprisingly, only 28% of Vermont homes contain families with school age children.

Vermont ranks highest in pet ownership.  According to a survey by the American Veterinary Medical Association, 70.8% of Vermont households own a pet.

“The druggiest state?”

Not exactly a preferable state motto, but the shoe fits according to a recent Business Insider article.  Yes, VT has the highest rate of illicit drug use, marijuana use (which is legal in Burlington), and ranks high in cocaine use and overall drug addiction.  The drug problem remains one of Vermont’s worst kept secrets.