Last Updated on: 31st July 2024, 12:22 pm
Living in Bristol Rhode Island fits most people’s dreams of a picturesque New England seaside town. Pilgrims first arrived in Bristol in 1620, when the Pokanokets occupied the area. Nestled between Narragansett Bay and Mount Hope Bay, and named after Bristol, England, this historic port town boasts world-class cuisine, beautiful parks, and a charming harbor filled with yachts and sailing boats.
There is so much history of America in this town. Bristol is full of military and maritime historical sites, has a rich history, hosts many community events throughout the year, and its scenic coastline draws many visitors in the summer months. Bristol has a vibrant, walkable downtown district, lots of recreational opportunities, pristine farmland, and easy access to nearby cities such as Providence and Boston.
Bristol is known for being extremely patriotic. In fact, Bristol is home to one of America’s oldest 4th of July celebration events, which was first held in 1785. During the American Revolution, Bristol experienced shelling from the British Navy and an on-ground assault, highlighting its significance in the town’s historical narrative. You’re going to love the quintessential New England charm and all the amenities that Bristol, RI has to offer.
Where Is Bristol, Rhode Island?
The Town of Bristol is located in Bristol County, along a narrow peninsula between Narragansett Bay and Mount Hope Bay. Bristol is about 18 miles southeast of Providence and 65 miles south of Boston.
Map of Bristol, RI
Bristol RI Population and Demographics
Although Bristol’s largest demographic by far is White, the Hispanic population, the largest minority population in Bristol, is a diverse group and heavily influenced by its Puerto Rican residents. Many Puerto Ricans were brought to Providence and the surrounding areas in the 1920s to work in the agriculture and manufacturing industries. Others migrated from New York to escape the overcrowded and crime-ridden neighborhoods. Many Puerto Ricans ventured to the Providence area, finding living conditions far superior to New York.
Today, Puerto Rican and Latino influence can be seen in business, food, and politics, with a Hispanic Housing Court Judge, a Latino elected to the Providence City Council, a prominent physician and activist, and more.
The Bristol population is 22,493. The racial and ethnic demographics of Bristol are 91.9% White (90.6% White alone, not Hispanic or Latino), 4.0% two or more races, 2.6% Hispanic or Latino, 2.0% Asian, and 1.3% Black or African American.
Here’s more of Bristol’s demographics:
- Population density: 2,224 per square mile
- Median age: 43.9
- Sex ratio: 49.2% Males, 50.8% Females
- Median household income: $91,382
- Educational attainment: 91.1% high school degree or higher, 45.4% bachelor’s degree or higher
- Foreign-born population: 10.6%
- Veteran population: 1,278
The Bristol Police Department is committed to preventing crime and disorder, reducing citizen fear of crime, and improving the quality of life of all members of the community. Bristol is a very safe town to live in. The crime rate in Bristol is 67% lower than the national average. It sees far fewer incidents of crime than crime in Providence. Violent crime is 88% below the national average. Bristol’s property crime rate is also low, 74% lower than the national average.
Bristol RI Cost of Living
The cost of living in Bristol is 18.7% higher than the national average but only 5.5% above the Rhode Island average. Housing is the most expensive factor to keep in mind when moving to Bristol. Housing costs in Bristol are only 35% higher than the national average. The median sale price of a home in Bristol is $549,900. The price per square foot is $305.
Bristol RI real estate has dropped 16.7% over the past year, though, making it a great time to buy one of the many homes for sale in Bristol RI. Houses for sale in Bristol RI go quickly, so be sure to put your offer in! If you don’t want to own yet, there’s good news. Renting in Bristol is fairly inexpensive. According to Redfin, the average rent in Bristol is $1,341, which is a 14.8% drop over the last year. It’s more affordable than Providence. You can find apartments for rent and homes for rent in Bristol RI on RentCafe.
Typical Bristol Living Expenses:
- Meal, inexpensive restaurant: $25.00
- Domestic beer: $6.00
- 1 gallon of milk: $5.09
- Dozen eggs: $5.20
- 1 pound of chicken: $4.37
- Average Bristol monthly utility bill: $170.23
Source: Numbeo, Providence, RI
The Best Neighborhoods in Bristol
Bristol’s neighborhoods feature a variety of home styles, including Cape Cods, Colonial-style, and elegant Victorians, and the town offers a mix of suburban and waterfront living. Here are some of the top neighborhoods in Bristol:
Additionally, Bristol is well-served by two major hospitals, ensuring residents have access to top-notch healthcare services.
Bristol Highlands
When living in Bristol Rhode Island, Bristol Highlands is a peaceful community on the coast with awesome views of the sunsets over the water. The neighborhood features a variety of home styles, such as bungalows, Craftsman-style homes, and colonial Revival, with classic New England architectural features that give the community lots of character. Residents have easy access to the shore and Colt State Park.
Downtown Bristol
Downtown features big lots, large homes, tree-lined streets, and a walkable neighborhood. Local schools are close as are many parks, including Bristol Town Common, Rockwell Park, and Independence Park. Downtown is home to Bristol Harbor as well, with many waterfront dining options and local shopping. The area is also known for its great restaurants, offering a variety of dining experiences.
Mt. Hope
The community sits on the highest point in Bristol County and offers a variety of home styles, including ranch style and many mid-century Cape Cods. Mature trees line the streets. The neighborhood is close to great schools and the historic Mt. Hope Farm. Shopping and dining options are nearby as well.
Bristol RI Weather & Climate
If you’re looking at the weather Bristol RI has, you’re in the right spot. Those moving to Bristol will get to experience it all. Bristol features a humid continental climate that brings four distinct seasons, including warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Temperatures can reach into the mid-80s in summer and often dip to below freezing in winter.
Bristol receives an average of 47 inches of rain each year, spread out evenly throughout the year. Grab those snow boots, because it snows in Bristol a lot. The town gets an average of 32 inches of snow per year. The best time of year to visit Bristol is from mid-June to mid-September to take advantage of the warm weather and enjoy outdoor activities.
Things to Do in Bristol RI
Bristol offers fun and exciting things to do and see for residents and visitors alike. There is also convenient shopping down on Main Street at Bristol Shopping Center, Wink Gift Store, and Bell Tower shopping mall. Bristol is also known as the most patriotic town in America, hosting the oldest continuous 4th of July celebration. Here are some of the best things to do in Bristol:
Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum
Blithewold is a 33-acre estate overlooking Narragansett Bay. The 45-room mansion has family heirlooms on display, and a series of stunning gardens are showcased on the surrounding grounds. Blithewold is home to a large collection of rare and unusual plants, specimen trees, and a greenhouse.
101 Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI 02809, (401) 253-2707
Colt State Park
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One of Rhode Island’s most popular state parks, Colt State Park covers 464 acres and offers scenic views of Narragansett Bay. Amenities include hiking trails, 4 miles of paved bike paths, lots of green space with historic stone walls, and a spectacular shoreline. The park features a boat ramp and seaside cross-country skiing in winter.
Route 114, Bristol, RI 02809, (401) 253-7482
Herreshoff Marine Museum
The Herreshoff Marine Museum includes a large museum, the old Herreshoff family homestead, six former Herreshoff company buildings, and a waterfront with a marina. The museum boasts over 70 significant boats, including the 8.5-foot dinghy, NATHANAEL, and the 75-foot DEFIANT that won the America’s Cup in 1992. The museum also houses about 500 ship models and hundreds of artifacts and memorabilia.
1 Burnside St, Bristol, RI 02809, (401) 253-5000
Additional Attractions in Bristol, RI:
The Bristol Parks & Recreation Department manages numerous parks, including Vets Park, Coelho Park, Sowams Park, and the Bristol Town Beach and Sports Complex, where residents and visitors alike can relax and take in the picturesque view of Narragansett Bay and its stunning sunsets. Amenities include picnic tables, shade trees, walking and biking trails, a playground, and a soft, sandy beach.
Bristol hosts the popular Concerts on the Common series every summer at the Bristol Town Common from the Fourth of July through Labor Day weekend for the Bristol RI 4th of July parade. Check out the Bristol Community Event Calendar for upcoming events in the area.
Bristol RI Restaurants
Bristol offers a variety of dining options, from pizza to burgers to Italian and fresh seafood. You’ll find something for every taste in Bristol. Enjoy delicious dishes at popular restaurants in Bristol RI, such as:
Leo’s Ristorante
Leo’s is one of the best restaurants Bristol RI has. It features delicious Italian entrees using old family recipes, as well as pizza and sandwiches. From chicken dishes to a variety of pasta offerings that includes lasagna and penne, Leo’s serves some of the best Italian cuisine in the area in a friendly, warm atmosphere.
365 Hope St, Bristol, RI 02809, (401) 253-9300
Bristol Oyster Bar
Bristol Oyster Bar features an open kitchen that serves up the finest quality food using the freshest ingredients. They source from and support local farmers and fishermen. They feature one of the largest selections of Rhode Island oysters you’ll find anywhere in the area.
448 Hope St, Bristol, RI 02809, (401) 396-5820
Aidan’s Irish Pub
Aidan’s Irish Pub is an authentic Irish-style pub, complete with pints of Guinness, traditional cocktails, and a wide array of Irish-inspired dishes, including Bangers & Mash, Shepherd’s Pie, and Dublin Pot Pie.
5 John St, Bristol, RI 02809, (401) 254-1940
Jobs in Bristol RI
Bristol provides job opportunities in fields such as boat building and related marine industries, manufacturing, and tourism. Its proximity to those residing in Providence and Boston offers additional employment opportunities.
One of the major employers in Bristol is Roger Williams University, a leading liberal arts and professional education institution with the state’s only law school, serving over 5,400 students. The university has over 1,800 employees, including more than 480 faculty staff. Other major employers in the state include CVS Health, Textron, Citizens Financial Group, and Nortek.
If you’re still looking for a job in Bristol, there are plenty of opportunities. Check out Indeed and the Town of Bristol Job Opportunities.
Schools in Bristol Rhode Island
The Bristol-Warren Regional School District serves the towns of Bristol and Warren, providing quality public education and engaging families and community partners in creating a vibrant and adaptive learning environment that supports all students, helping them to reach their full potential as productive and successful members of society. The district has four elementary schools, Colt Andrews, Guiteras, Hugh Cole, and Rockwell, as well as Kickemuit Middle and Mt. Hope High.
The best private school options near Bristol include Portsmouth Abbey School, St. Andrew’s School, and Barrington Christian Academy.
For further education, excellent options near Bristol include Roger Williams University, Salve Regina University, University of Rhode Island, Brown University, and Bristol Community College.
At the Rogers Free Library, you can spend a fun day checking out books, magazines, digital media, music, and more.
Bristol RI Statistics & Information
- County: Bristol
- Area: 20.6 square miles
- Bristol RI zip code: 02809
- Area code: 401
- Elevation: 0-131 feet
- Time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC -4 and -5)
- Closest airport: Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport
Moving to Bristol Rhode Island is truly an American dream come true. Correira Brothers is here to help you get there with ease. Call our top-rated Bristol moving company at 401-648-6683 or fill out our form for a free quote on your upcoming move!
