Top 15 Ideal Living Locations in Rhode Island

The US state of Rhode Island, albeit small in size, is rich in charm and character. With a population of just over a million, this coastal region is well-known for its picturesque colonial towns and rugged shorelines.

Several urban centers within Rhode Island, such as Newport, hold global recognition for their sailing culture and the stunning mansions from the Gilded Age, making them particularly photogenic.

The bustling city of Providence serves as the state capital. Although it may not be the most favorable setting for some individuals, visiting Providence offers an enjoyable experience. The grounds of Brown University, Roger Williams Park, and Waterplace Park remain popular choices for families.

In contrast to the Midwest, Rhode Island lacks extensive parklands and wilderness areas. However, it compensates with its breathtaking coastal trails and sandy beaches.

In crafting our list of the 15 best places to live in Rhode Island, we have considered factors such as accessibility to reputable public schools, healthcare facilities, and housing costs. While not every location may suit your preferences, there is undoubtedly a variety of appealing options in this compact and inviting coastal state.

1. Barrington

Source: Dan Logan / shutterstock

First on our list is the delightful Barrington, recognized as one of the most desirable places to reside in Rhode Island. This suburb of Providence is highly sought after, and it is clear why this is the case.

The exceptional quality of public education ensures that parents can be confident in their children’s schooling in Barrington. The schools enjoy A+ ratings from elementary through high school levels.

As anticipated in this popular area, along with numerous properties that offer views of the Providence River, housing prices tend to exceed the national average. This premium is justifiable when considering the excellent local amenities, vibrant community life, and ample employment opportunities.

Entertainment & Activities

Noteworthy attractions in Barrington include:

• Haines Memorial State Park
• Barrington Public Library
• Rhode Island Country Club
• Bluewater Bar & Grill
• Blue Kangaroo Cafe
• Doug Rayner Wildlife Refuge

2. Kingston

Source: Dougtone / Flickr

Following closely in second place is Kingston, Rhode Island. This Providence suburb again benefits from access to remarkable educational institutions, while its population remains small at approximately seven thousand residents, fostering a sense of community.

For those interested in renting, Kingston offers competitive prices that align with the national average, around $1,000 per month.

With the University of Rhode Island situated within the suburb, residents can enjoy a lively atmosphere with numerous evening activities and excellent social opportunities.

Local residents appreciate the close-knit community vibe fostered through events ranging from farmers markets to local concerts throughout the year.

Entertainment & Activities

Top attractions in Kingston include:

• Kinney Azalea Gardens
• South County History Center
• Old Mountain Lanes Bowling Alley
• Adventureland Family Fun Park
• Whalers Brewing Company
• Brandon Family Farm
• Boss Ice Arena
• Elite Indoor Gun Range

3. Jamestown

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Jamestown allows residents to experience an island lifestyle while conveniently connected to the mainland. Positioned between Block Island Sound and Buzzards Bay, the scenic views are truly impressive.

A particularly interesting fact is that Jamestown ranks as the second largest island in Narragansett Bay, following Aquidneck Island. The island is home to over five thousand residents who take great pride in being part of the safest community in Rhode Island.

With both sides connected to the mainland via Highway 138, commuting options are plentiful. However, it is important to note that property prices can be on the higher side, with median home values hovering around half a million dollars. However, properties often include spacious gardens, garages, and private driveways.

Entertainment & Activities

Top attractions in Jamestown are:

• Fort Wetherill State Park
• Beavertail Lighthouse Museum
• Beavertail State Park
• Fort Getty Park
• Jamestown Outdoors
• Jamestown Community Playground
• New England Sailing Center
• Jamestown Arts Center

4. Blackstone

Source: Chris Chinchilla / Flickr

Blackstone stands out as the most urban environment among the best places to live so far. This neighborhood located in central Providence along the Seekonk River provides residents with access to high-performing schools that consistently score above the national average.

For commuters, there are direct routes to Boston, New York, and Connecticut, offering a wealth of employment prospects within close proximity to Blackstone.

It is important to acknowledge that some residents have expressed a desire for improvement in public transportation services; therefore, owning a vehicle may be necessary unless one secures a job within walking distance.

Entertainment & Activities

Notable attractions in Blackstone include:

• Slater Memorial Park
• Lippitt Memorial Park
• Lincoln Woods State Park
• Wright’s Dairy Farm and Bakery
• Waterplace Park
• Roger Williams Park Zoo
• Phantom Farms Orchard
• Museum of Work & Culture

5. East Greenwich

Source: Marcbela (Marc N. Belanger) / Wikimedia

East Greenwich secures the fifth spot on our list. As another suburb of Providence, this area is home to approximately thirteen thousand residents.

Similar to Kingston, East Greenwich is favorable for prospective renters, with median monthly rents falling below $1,000, making it an affordable rental market. However, if purchasing a property is your goal, one should prepare for higher prices, as median home values exceed the national average.

Despite these prices, three-bedroom properties are available for under $300,000, which is reasonable for this affluent community.

Public schools and amenities are well-regarded, with low crime rates contributing to East Greenwich being one of the safest suburbs in the state.

Entertainment & Activities

Notable attractions in East Greenwich include:

• Varnum House Museum
• The Greenwich Odeum
• Briggs Boesch Farm
• Jigger’s Diner
• LineSider Brewing
• Rhode Island Paddle Sports
• Goddard Memorial State Park

6. Hope

Source: Google Maps

Endearingly referred to as Hope, this neighborhood located on the outskirts of Providence boasts a quaint atmosphere and approximately four thousand residents. Despite its urban environment, it maintains a village-like charm.

Hope has been recognized as the top neighborhood for home purchases within the Providence area, with housing prices aligning closely with national averages. For those seeking higher-end properties, you can expect prices of around half a million for spacious townhouses with modern features.

Additionally, the area offers excellent schools, local amenities, and proximity to downtown Providence, creating an attractive living environment.

Residents appreciate the access to local parks and running trails, making it easy to maintain an active lifestyle in Hope.

Entertainment & Activities

Some highlights of activities in Hope include:

• Colt State Park
• Launch Trampoline Park
• Festival Farm
• Ninigret Park
• International Tennis Hall of Fame
• Fenner Hill Country Club

7. South Kingstown

Source: Dan Logan / shutterstock

South Kingstown merits consideration, particularly if Kingston captured your interest.

With solid A-rated educational institutions, it is an excellent choice for families. This friendly neighborhood features low crime rates and a sense of community, making it an appealing choice for residents.

Locals consistently mention the beaches in South Kingstown as a fantastic aspect of the area, fostering a genuine community spirit that thrives during challenging times. The neighborhood is home to over thirty thousand residents, including students from the nearby University of Rhode Island.

The expansive East Matunuck State Beach is perfect for a day out with its sandy shoreline and picnic facilities for families.

Entertainment & Activities

Top attractions in South Kingstown include:

• Scarborough State Beach
• Brenton Point State Park
• Point Judith Lighthouse
• Foxwoods Resort Casino
• Mohegan Sun

8. North Kingstown

Source: Rick Payette / Flickr

North Kingstown exemplifies suburban living, accommodating over twenty-six thousand residents.

For those seeking a short commute, North Kingstown offers a favorable environment. Residents enjoy access to numerous health and fitness facilities, complemented by a variety of nightlife options.

Situated near the water, there are ample opportunities for fishing and boating, potentially allowing residents to develop new hobbies that foster community integration.

Parents will find satisfaction in the presence of excellent schools that contribute positively to their children’s upbringing.

Entertainment & Activities

Popular attractions in North Kingstown include:

• Biomes Marine Biology Center
• Rhode Island Bay Cruises
• Wilson Park
• The Kayak Centre
• Compass Rose Beach
• Wickford Harbor

9. Narragansett

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The historic town of Narragansett showcases a rustic charm and provides residents with access to some of Rhode Island’s finest coastal landscapes. On sunny days, walking along the beach proves to be a delightful family activity.

This quaint suburb has a limited number of properties available, and any appealing property should be secured promptly. While housing prices align with statewide averages, they exceed national averages, which is also true for median rents.

Local residents occasionally voice concerns about the summer influx of tourists. However, the area is clean and safe, making it manageable for those living there.

Entertainment & Activities

Attractions worth visiting in Narragansett include:

• The Towers
• Narragansett Town Beach
• South County Museum
• Roger Wheeler State Beach
• Salty Brine State Beach
• Newport Vineyards
• Narrow River
• Ninigret Park

10. Wayland

Source: CthulhuWho1 (Will Hart) / Flickr

Wayland is a charming neighborhood within Providence. With a population of just over five thousand, it also features a community-centric atmosphere akin to Hope.

Wayland’s population adds to its diversity, both ethically and economically, contributing to a vibrant and solid community. While public schools in Wayland do not reach the high standards seen in places like Barrington, they still perform above the national average and consistently meet educational benchmarks.

Residents have numerous opportunities to engage in outdoor activities, and favorable weather conditions throughout the year allow for enjoyment of the surrounding amenities at any time.

Entertainment & Activities

Attractions in Wayland encompass:

• RISD Museum
• Free Play Bar Arcade
• Avon Cinema
• The John Brown House Museum
• Brown University
• Ladd Observatory

11. College Hill

Source: Jon Bilous / shutterstock

With its vicinity to RISD and Brown University, College Hill is immensely popular among millennials. Many students, upon completing their studies, choose to remain and settle in this neighborhood, perhaps retaining a connection to their student life.

Crime statistics in this area fluctuate; however, residents consistently report feeling secure in their homes despite slightly elevated crime rates on paper. The prevalence of RISD and Brown University has resulted in fewer public schools available for families, which may lead to an incomplete picture of the area for potential residents. Nonetheless, the schools that are present are of good quality.

Thus, if you come across a property in College Hill that you truly love, do not allow concerns regarding schooling to deter you from pursuing it.

Entertainment & Activities

Key attractions in College Hill consist of:

• Prospect Terrace Park
• Providence Art Club
• Roger Williams National Memorial
• Avon Cinema
• Waterplace Park
• Cate Charles Gallery
• La Gondola Providence

12. Narragansett Pier

Source: Joseph Sohm / shutterstock

Narragansett Pier presents a charming locality in Rhode Island. While property prices are relatively high, this is expected considering the breathtaking seafront views afforded by many residences in the region.

This area functions primarily as a tourist enclave. Thus, many properties cater to holidaymakers and remain vacant most of the year, driving up the overall cost of living.

Nonetheless, Narragansett Pier provides a friendly community atmosphere, punctuated with several local cafes favored by residents, such as Leo’s Pizza.

Schools in the vicinity are commendably reputable, yet each educational level features only one institution, providing limited choices for parents.

Entertainment & Activities

Attractions in Narragansett Pier include:

• The Towers Historical Landmark
• South County Museum
• Adventureland Family Fun Park
• Point Judith Lighthouse
• Aunt Carrie’s Restaurant
• Black Point Trailhead

13. Fox Point

Source: Jon Bilous / shutterstock

While Fox Point may lack high-quality public schools, it compensates with its vibrant nightlife and convenient commuting options. Though perhaps not ideal for families with young children, Fox Point is an attractive choice for millennials and those opting out of parenthood.

It comes as no surprise that Fox Point ranks among the top neighborhoods for millennials. As such, it is predicted that Fox Point will rise in prominence in the coming years as Generation X continues to shape the community.

The area offers a plethora of restaurants and cafes, fostering numerous opportunities for social interaction.

Entertainment & Activities

Popular attractions in Fox Point include:

• India Point Park
• The Point Tavern
• Wickenden Pub
• Free Play Bar Arcade
• Providence River Walk

14. Portsmouth

Source: LEE SNIDER PHOTO IMAGES / shutterstock

Portsmouth emerges as an exceptional town for families. With a notable aging population, Portsmouth has attracted many retirees, resulting in a diverse demographic exceeding seventeen thousand residents.

Characterized by its suburban environment, Portsmouth exudes a quaint small-town ambiance, particularly enhanced by its surrounding waterways.

Property values in Portsmouth correlate with state averages. While a spacious four-bedroom, three-bathroom home can command prices exceeding $500,000, modest three-bedroom houses can similarly be found without difficulty.

Entertainment & Activities

Attractions in Portsmouth include:

• Green Animals Topiary Garden
• Newport Car Museum
• Greenvale Vineyards
• Escobar Farm
• Newport Indoor Golf
• Gull Cove
• Hope Island

15. Mount Hope

Source: Google Maps

Mount Hope rounds out our list of top places to live in Rhode Island. Located in the suburbs of Providence, this appealing neighborhood is home to over five thousand residents. With median rents closely aligning with national averages, Mount Hope represents one of the more affordable living options across the state.

This affordability has attracted many millennials seeking to purchase their first homes. Consequently, we foresee development in this area over the coming decade, potentially elevating Mount Hope into the top ten best places to reside in Rhode Island.

Entertainment & Activities

Highlights in Mount Hope consist of:

• Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
• Glanford Curling Club
• Southern Pines Golf & Country Club