Planning your move to the Ocean State? You’re not alone! More than 40,311 people are moving to Rhode Island annually. This is why its population has reached 1 million in 2024.
Rhode Island ranks 5th in the nation for healthcare access and has a strong education system, with a 95% high school graduation rate. Its easy access to New York City and Boston makes Rhode Island a top choice for professionals and families.
3 Reasons to Move to Rhode Island
Rhode Island is one of the favorite relocation destinations for Americans. Here are three reasons to move to RI:
| # | Reasons to Move to RI | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Cost of Living | The average cost of living in Rhode Island is 12.5% above the national average. |
| 2. | Safety Index | The Ocean State ranks among one of the top 10 safest states in the country |
| 3. | Proximity to Major Cities | Major cities like New York City, Boston, and Hartford are easily accessible by car or train from Rhode Island. |
1. Cost of Living
The cost of living in Rhode Island is 12.5% higher than the national average. However, it’s an attractive option compared to other New England states like Massachusetts, where living costs are 27.5% above the national average.
Here’s a breakdown of monthly expenses in Rhode Island’s popular cities:
| City | Median Home Price | Median Rent | Public Transport | Utilities | Food |
| Providence | $550,000 | $2,528 | $80 | $178.12 | $724 |
| Newport | $870,000 | $2029 | $62.3 | $118.73 | $669 |
| Warwick | $415,000 | $1,837 | $64.4 | $302.32 | $673 |
| Pawtucket | $453,500 | $1,863 | $64.5 | $302.32 | $723 |
2. High Safety Index
Rhode Island ranks among one of the top 10 safest states in the country. The state has a notably low violent crime rate of 2.0 incidents per 1,000 people, which is the 4th lowest in the country.
In Rhode Island, 61% of residents feel secure in their communities, this is 16% higher than the national average. Bristol and South Kingstown are among the safest cities in Rhode Island, each reporting very low violent crime rates around 0.5 incidents per 1,000 people.
3. Proximity to Major Cities
Rhode Island offers quick access to major urban centers in the Northeast. Providence is just a 50-minute drive from Boston, Massachusetts. New York City is around 3 hours away by car or train, and Hartford, Connecticut, is over an hour’s drive.
With accessible public transportation options like Amtrak and nearby airports, residents can easily travel to these cities for work, events, or weekend getaways. This proximity allows Rhode Island inhabitants to enjoy the amenities of larger cities while benefiting from a relatively affordable and slow-paced lifestyle.
Cost of Moving to Rhode Island 💲
There are additional costs involved in moving from one state to another. Here’s a breakdown of costs you may incur while relocating to RI:
1. Moving Costs ≈ $464 to $3,106
Moving to Rhode Island involves several costs, including the costs involved in moving your belongings.
- Rhode Island moving companies typically cost $90 per hour. However, this figure depends entirely on your belongings and the distance traveled.
- If you want to DIY your move, renting a truck can be a better option. The average rent of a mid-size moving truck with a load capacity of 4,000-6,000 pounds ranges between $40 and $80 per day.
- 👉 Tip: Moving can be expensive, especially if you are selling your home before you move. In this case, you can use a Flat Fee MLS company to save on listing agent commissions. This way, you can have additional cash when you move to Rhode Island.
2. Utility Expenses ≈ $400 to $500 Per Month
Apart from moving, you will have to incur utility expenses when migrating to Rhode Island.
- When relocating to Rhode Island, you must set up utilities like gas, electricity, water, etc. The average utility bill in RI is around $439/month.
- You will have to register your vehicle in Rhode Island. The first-time registration cost of a passenger vehicle in RI starts at $30 for up to 4,000 lbs. A standard title fee costs $52.50.
3. Housing Costs
Housing costs in the Ocean State can vary depending on your location.
- In popular cities like Providence, Warwick, and Pawtucket, the average rent ranges between $1,800 and $3,000.
- However, if you’re looking to buy a house in Rhode Island, home prices vary across the state. Coastal cities like Middletown have a median home price of $825K. On the other hand, the average cost of a home in inland cities like Woonsocket is $355K.
4 Tips for a Seamless Move to Rhode Island ✅
Moving to a new place can be tough. Here are some tips to help you make a smooth transition.
- Research Cities and Neighborhoods: It’s important to research the area you want to live in. You must know if your home is in the city or suburbs. Find out where the nearby schools, hospitals, coffee shops, or restaurants are.
- Find the Living Costs: Your living costs will change once you migrate. Before moving to RI, get an estimate of the basic living expenses in your desired location.
- Visit the Neighborhood: Once you’ve decided where you want to live. You must visit that Rhode Island neighborhood in person and see what you feel about the area.
- Meet Your Neighbors: Connect with your neighbors and socialize. Local Facebook groups can be the best way to meet your neighbors.
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