Known for its coastal beauty and fascinating history, Rhode Island is full of affordable living options. From fast-growing cities to charming small towns, here is a quick overview of ten of the cheapest places to live in Rhode Island, along with some of the largest employers and most affordable attractions in each area. Today’s the day to find the perfect place to settle down in Rhode Island.
1. Newport
Average rent: $1,143
Newport tops our list as one of the most affordable cities in Rhode Island, with an average rent of just $1,143. One-bedroom apartments in Newport are about $1,035, and two-bedroom apartments are $1,250.
Major employers in Newport include the Naval Station Newport and Newport Hospital. For a free day of fun, walk the Cliff Walk for stunning ocean views or explore Fort Adams State Park.
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2. Woonsocket
Average rent: $1,286
Woonsocket has an average rent of $1,286, making it another highly affordable option. One-bedroom apartments average $1,022, while two-bedroom units are about $1,550.
Major employers in Woonsocket include CVS Health and Landmark Medical Center. For a relaxed day, visit the Museum of Work & Culture or take a stroll through River Island Art Park. The city also hosts free community events throughout the year, like the beloved Autumnfest celebration.
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3. Cranston
Average rent: $1,506
Cranston’s average rent is $1,506, making it a budget-friendly place to live. Studio apartments average $1,120, one-bedroom units are around $1,347, and two-bedroom apartments are $2,050.
Major employers in Cranston include Citizens Bank and the Cranston Public School District. For fun, visit the Roger Williams Park Zoo or time your visit up with the annual Cranston Greek Festival.
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4. Coventry
Average rent: $1,523
The average rent in Coventry sits at $1,523, offering affordable living in Rhode Island. One-bedroom apartments in Coventry are about $1,395, and two-bedroom apartments are $1,650.
Major employers in Coventry include Kent County Memorial Hospital and the Coventry School District. Coventry locals enjoy free attractions like the Nathanael Greene Homestead and walking the trails at Carbuncle Pond.
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5. Johnston
Average rent: $1,545
Johnston’s average rent is $1,545. One-bedroom units are about $1,000, and two-bedroom apartments are $2,090.
Key employers in Johnston include FM Global and Citizens Bank. To enjoy an affordable day about town, start at Johnston Memorial Park or enjoy the scenic views at Snake Den State Park.
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6. Westerly
Average rent: $1,550
Westerly offers an average rent of $1,550. One-bedroom units are about $1,400, and two-bedroom apartments are $1,700.
Major employers in Westerly include Westerly Hospital and the Westerly School District. If you’re in town, a visit to Watch Hill Lighthouse or a stroll through Wilcox Park are essential.
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7. Pawtucket
Average rent: $1,717
Pawtucket’s average rent of $1,717, making it an affordable choice in Rhode Island. Studio apartments average $1,540, one-bedroom units are about $1,600, and two-bedroom apartments are $2,010.
A couple noteworthy employers in Pawtucket include Hasbro and the Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island. For entertainment, visit the Slater Mill Historic Site or enjoy the trails at the Blackstone Valley Park.
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8. Warwick
Average rent: $1,723
Warwick’s average rent is $1,723, making it a reasonably priced place to live. Studio apartments average $1,614, one-bedroom units are about $1,497, and two-bedroom apartments are $2,059.
One of the more significant employers in Warwick is Infineon Technologies, a semiconductor and system solutions company. For an affordable day out, visit Warwick City Park or explore the historic Pawtuxet Village.
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9. North Providence
Average rent: $1,807
North Providence’s average rent is $1,807, making it another affordable option in Rhode Island. Studio apartments average $1,195, one-bedroom units are around $2,150, and two-bedroom apartments are $2,075.
Major employers in North Providence include Our Lady of Fatima Hospital and the North Providence School District. Visit Governor Notte Park for scenic views and outdoor activities or explore the North Providence Pool and Fitness Center to get the full North Providence experience.
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10. Bristol
Average rent: $1,817
Bristol’s average rent is $1,817, making it a reasonably priced place to live in Rhode Island. One-bedroom units are about $1,500, and two-bedroom apartments are $2,700. Despite the higher cost for larger units, the overall affordability of the city is supported by relatively low utility costs and affordable groceries.
Roger Williams University is a major employer in Bristol and the driving force behind Bristol’s reputation as one of the best Rhode Island college towns. For free attractions, you can explore Colt State Park or take a stroll along the East Bay Bike Path. The city also hosts various free events and festivals, like the annual Bristol Fourth of July Parade, which is the oldest continuous celebration of Independence Day in the United States.
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Methodology
All cities must have over 20,000 residents per the US Census and have an average rent price under the median rent price for the state – which is $1,964 per month according to Redfin data. Average rental data from Rent.com July 2024.
Source: rent.com