Considering Living in Rhode Island? 🌊 11 Reasons for Moving to Rhode Island

Last Updated on: 14th January 2025, 12:33 pm

Like every state (yes, Rhode Island is a US state), there are pros and cons of living in Rhode Island; everyone adores its coastlines and beautiful beaches, and most despise the traffic. While some downsides are inevitable anywhere you move, the good outweighs the bad with this historic US state. If you’re considering living in Rhode Island, keep reading our moving to Rhode Island guide—it covers everything you’ll need to know.

What Is Rhode Island Known for? – Why Is Rhode Island So Famous?

Rhode Island is known for its natural beauty, coastal views of the Atlantic Ocean, and excellent public schools (like Rhode Island School of Design). If you’re asking yourself, “Is Rhode Island a nice place to live?”, our guide will answer your question.

And remember, if the following information convinces you The Ocean State is indeed for you, we have skilled Rhode Island movers to handle your relocation.

• Question: Why are so many people moving to Rhode Island?
• Answer: People are moving to Rhode Island for its low crime rate, great schools, and breathtaking ocean views.

1. Beautiful Real Estate – Cost of Living in Rhode Island, Real Estate Market, Living Wage, etc.

What is the cost of living in Rhode Island? Rhode Island boasts gorgeous estates, but those aesthetically pleasing structures come with a steep price tag (as they should!). Rhode Island has the tenth-highest housing prices in the country, between Maryland and New Jersey.

Quick Cost of Living in RI Facts – Typical Living Cost in Rhode Island

Living in Rhode Island comes at a higher cost than most states. The COLI in Rhode Island is 12% above the national average, and the average home price in Rhode Island is well above the US. However, the average utility bill for people living in Rhode is $34 less per month. The property taxes in Rhode Island are some of the highest in the US, with a state property tax of 1.23%.

What is a livable salary in Rhode Island? According to the Living Wage Calculator, a living wage in Rhode Island for one adult with no children is $24.24 an hour. Two adults with one income and one child would have to earn $39.25 hourly to live in Rhode Island.

Average Cost of Living Rhode Island Per Month

According to the Providence Journal, the average cost of living per year in Rhode Island is $3,701.5, or $44,481 a year.

• Question: Is it expensive to live in Rhode Island?
• Answer: Although the average cost of living in Rhode Island is 12% higher than the average US city, its benefits indeed make up for its high cost.

2. Diverse Demographics – Rhode Island Population & Demographics

How many people live in Rhode Island? Rhode is a densely populated state, with 1,095,962 residents, which is 0.1% less than in 2010. Although Rhode Island is the smallest US state, there are more people living in Rhode Island than Wyoming, Vermont, and Alaska; Little Rhody is actually the 44th-most populated state in America. Rhode Island gets its reputation because of its area—Rhode Island is only 662,000 acres.

Rhode Island’s population consists mostly of working-class individuals, but a handful of celebrities do call it home. One of the coolest things about Rhode Island is that you could be neighbors with someone like Blake Lively! Taylor Swift, Jay Leno, and Christopher Walken all have homes in the Ocean State.

Despite many high rollers residing here, the median household income is only $81,370 ($6,223 more than the national average).

The median age here is 40.8, and 35% of the population is 29 years old or younger; 39% are over the age of 50. The sex ratio is 50 females to 50 males, and married couples occupy 46% of the 443,980 households. The average household size is only 2.4 people.

Rhode Island Racial Demographics – Is Living in Rhode Island Diverse?

Yes, RI has a unique celebrity population and diverse age demographics, but it’s lacking in its racial diversity. 82.4% of the population is white (69.2% non-Hispanic or Latino), and 18.0% are Hispanic or Latino. Its lowest population is Native Hawianna, at only 0.2%. 9.3% of people living in Rhode Island are Black or African American, 3.7% are Asian, 3.1% are two or more races, and 1.3% are Native American or Alaska Native.

3. Safety – Rhode Island Crime Rate & Award-Winning Police Departments

Is Rhode Island safe? With a crime rate of 1,458 per 100,000 people, Rhode Island is one of the safest  US cities. For reference, the US crime rate is a whopping 2,324 per 100,000 people. Its violent crime rate follows the same trend, at 172 per 100,000 people compared to the United State’s 370.

One of the main benefits of living in Rhode Island is that only about 14,058 property crimes happen annually; that’s a 1 in 78 chance you would be affected by property crime after moving to Rhode Island. The property crime rate in Rhode Island is 1,285 per 100,000 people, whereas the US property crime rate is 1,954 per 100k people.

Depending on which city in Rhode Island you choose, there will be award-winning officers just a phone call away.

4. Robust Job Market – Rhode Island Economy, Major Employers, Average Salaries, & More

Is Rhode Island a good place to live and work? Let’s look at Rhode Island’s economy and if it can support you.

Rhode Island has a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $77.8 billion. Rhode Island also boasts the 17th-fastest growth rate of all US cities and hosts 124,317 businesses. Four of its largest companies (United Natural Foods Inc., Textron Inc., Citizens Financial Group Inc., and CVS Health) were recently named on the Fortune 500 list.

The largest private companies in Rhode Island are RI Hospital, CVS Pharmacy, and Citizens Bank. How do people make a living in Rhode Island? The leading industries here are life sciences, software & data analysis, blue economy, manufacturing, education, and advanced business services. However, there are ample job opportunities in most fields.

If you’re seeking Rhode Island jobs before your big move, there are over 20,000 openings. We suggest narrowing your search to your desired city for more refined suggestions!

5. Beautiful Coastlines – Breathtaking Rhode Island Beaches & Parks

If you’re looking for moving to Rhode Island advice, living close to its coast is a no-brainer! With famous coastal towns like Newport, Narragansett, Little Compton, and Jamestown, it’s hard not to choose one of those to call home. If you’re asking yourself, “What are the benefits of living in Rhode Island?” your answer is that RI living means proximity to beautiful beaches and parks; here are a few of our favorites.

• East Matunuck State Beach – Voted best beach in Rhode Island thanks to its vast 144 acres of land, modern pavilions, and ample parking.
• Rocky Point State Park – Located in Warwick, Rocky Point is one of the best due to its large pier and affordable pricing (admission is free).
• Beavertail State Park and Museum – Explore Rhode Island’s rich history at Beavertail State Park. There is an expansive museum and a breathtaking rocky coastline. You can tour this park on foot or in your vehicle.

With thirteen state parks, eight state beaches, and one national park, Rhode Island has tons to do. And the best part is, it only takes about 45 minutes to get from one end of the state to the other! How is living in Rhode Island? Think quaint, coastal, and safe.

6. Unique History – Original Thirteen Colonies, Ample Culture, etc.

Are you asking yourself why Rhode Island? Who wouldn’t want to live in a state with such a unique history?

If you’re wondering who founded Rhode Island, that would be Roger Williams in 1636, a religious dissenter who sought freedom from Puritan Massachusetts. Known for its commitment to religious tolerance, it became a haven for those fleeing persecution, including Anne Hutchinson and Quakers. Rhode Island was the first colony to break ties with King George III in 1776, playing a key role in the American Revolution.

In 1790, it was the last of the original 13 states to ratify the U.S. Constitution. Nicknamed the Ocean State, its coastal identity has shaped its culture, economy, and history.

7. Tight-Knit – Smallest US State, Quaint Town, Involved Community

What’s it like living in Rhode Island? Think Hallmark movie—Rhode Island residents adore its strong sense of community. Of course, this greatly depends on the city you choose to reside in, but most of The Ocean State’s communities are desirable and charming.

Newport and Providence often host fun community events and festivals; the Newport Folk Festival and Newport Jazz Festival started in 1954, and the WaterFire Providence is a must-attend art event. These festivals likely contribute to Rhode Island’s notable 28-plus million visitors annually.

8. Rhode Island Climate – Enjoyable Rhode Island Weather & Temperate Climate

The weather in Rhode Island is some of the best around. Like many northern East Coast states, Little Rhody has a variety of Köppen climate types, including humid subtropical, warm-summer humid continental, and oceanic.

Rhode Island has only 98 sunny days a year, and the temperatures can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Providence experiences an average daily low of 27 degrees Fahrenheit. The best time to visit Rhode Island is in the spring, as the temperatures are enjoyable, and there are many festivals to attend. However, fall often has moderate temperatures and beautiful foliage.

9. Food – Fresh Seafood & Award-Winning Restaurants

Thanks to its beautiful coastlines, Rhode Island has some of the freshest seafood around. Not to mention a handful of award-winning chefs. Forbes claims Maven’s Delicatessen is one of the best restaurants near Providence, and Rhode Island Monthly says to check out Gift Horse for date night. The Patio on Broadway is great for an outing with friends, and Ceviches By Divino is ideal if you’re looking for something unique.

10. Entertainment Galore – Live Music & Fun Nightlife

From theatres to dive bars, The Ocean State has endless entertainment options with live performances on the daily. Newport hosts the annual Jazz and Music Festival, which has about 10,000 visitors annually. Providence hosts the unique AS220, a group showcasing emerging talent, alongside the legendary The Strand Ballroom & Theatre, which hosts international shows just about every weekend.

You don’t have to visit Rhode Island’s historical theatres for a good show; most restaurants and bars have live music or open mics for artists trying to showcase their talents.

11. Easy Transition – Simple DMV Change of Address & Vehicle Registration

One of the things to know before moving to Rhode Island is how to change your address and vehicle registration

vehicle registration.

Relocating to Rhode Island means you will first find a rental or buy a home, but once move-in day is complete, you’ll want to start the address-changing process.

To change your address in Rhode Island, visit your local DMV or your neighborhood AAA office. Arrive with your current driver’s license and an already filled-out registration application, which you can find on their website. Registering and adding your new address will automatically change the vehicle registration linked to your account.

You can also update your Rhode Island address and vehicle registration online.

Rhode Island Pros

Let’s take a look at the moving to Rhode Island pros and cons​.

• There are plenty of outdoor recreation options to enjoy in the region.
• Ample coastal areas provide beautiful places to live and explore.
• Residents have easy access to many other New England states for travel or work.
• The area offers great public and private schools for families.
• A large job market and thriving economies create numerous career opportunities.
• The region boasts a unique and fascinating history to discover.

Rhode Island Cons – Are There Bad Things About Living in Rhode Island?

• The region has a high cost of living, which may be a challenge for some residents.
• Its small size and dense population can make it feel crowded in certain areas.
• Severe weather events, such as hurricanes and tropical storms, are a common concern.
• It is not tax-friendly, as social security benefits are subject to taxation.
• The population could be more diverse, which might appeal to some.

Best Cities to Live in Rhode Island

Rhode Island living means you get to choose a lovely city to call home. Here is a list of the best and largest cities in Rhode Island!

• Providence – What’s it like Living in Providence Rhode Island? The state capital is coastal, affluent, and a lovely place to call home.
• Warwick – Warwick boasts lovely suburbia that’s just a short drive from the coast.
• Cranston – Cranston has historic appeal.
• Pawtucket – Pawtucket offers a thriving arts district.
• East Providence – East Providence has affordable homes ($221,700 median price).
• Woonsocket – Woonsocket boasts a young median age (36.3 years old).
• Cumberland – Cumberland has notable attractions like Phantom Farms.
• Coventry – Coventry is Rhode Island’s largest town (by area).
• North Providence – North Providence is the state’s second-smallest town, covering only 6 square miles.
• South Kingstown – South Kingston hosts more than 10 miles of sandy beaches.

Now that you know the best town in Rhode Island to live in, you can start your big relocation journey!

Moving to Rhode Island Advice With Correira Brothers – Is It a Good Idea to Move to Rhode Island?

“Is Rhode Island a good place to live?” That’s a great question to ask yourself before transitioning to a new state. We’ve touched base on all the living in Rhode Island pros and cons, meaning you should have a well-rounded opinion of The Ocean State. Like anywhere, there are flaws, but for the most part, Rhode Island is a laid-back state with stunning views and plenty of quiet towns to choose from.

If you’ve decided living in Rhode Island is indeed for you, we think that’s a great idea. Before you begin your upcoming move, call Correira Brothers at (401) 648-6683 for a free estimate. Our skilled Rhode Island movers are ready to help.