Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Block Island, RI
Considering a move to Block Island, RI? This unique island community of about 1,000 residents offers a tranquil lifestyle with stunning coastal scenery, a high median home price of $985,000, and rental options averaging $1,900. With very low crime rates, short average commutes of 8 minutes, and a close-knit school community, it’s perfect for those seeking peace and natural beauty. Expect a cost of living above the national average, moderate seasonal weather, and a relaxed pace ideal for island living.
Demographics - Block Island, RI
Demographics - Block Island, RI
Block Island is home to a small, close-knit population of about 1,000 residents, with a median age nearing 50 and a strong majority identifying as White. The community has a low population density, a balanced gender ratio, and a modest percentage of non-English speakers, fostering a welcoming and peaceful island atmosphere.
Population:
1,000
Density:
110 per sq mi
Median Age:
49.7
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
95.2%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
3.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Block Island, RI?
Living on Block Island comes with a high cost of living, as reflected by a median home value of $985,000 and a cost of living index well above the national average. Daily expenses like rent, groceries, and utilities are also higher, making the area best suited for those prepared for premium island living.
Median House Value:
$985,000
Gross Rent:
$1,900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$150
Auto Insurance:
$1,490
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,800
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,000
State Taxes:
Low:
3.75%
|
High:
5.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
142
Grocery:
120
Housing:
180
Utilities:
132
Transportation:
126
Health Care:
116
Miscellaneous:
112
Crime
Is Block Island, RI a safe place to live?
Block Island enjoys very low crime rates, with a violent crime rate significantly below national averages and a low chance of property crime. Residents can feel secure in this quiet community, where safety and peace of mind are notable benefits.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
70
Property Crimes Per 100k:
380
Crime Index:
450
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,430
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 263
Weather
What is the weather like in Block Island, RI year-round?
Block Island experiences mild, coastal weather with cool winters, pleasant summers averaging highs in the upper 70s, and around 59% sunny days each year. Annual rainfall is moderate, contributing to the island’s lush scenery and comfortable seasonal transitions.
Winter
Min:
28°F
Max:
40°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
59%
Neighbors
Residents of Block Island typically have a median household income of $72,300 and benefit from a low poverty rate. The community is highly educated, with nearly 95% having at least a high school diploma, and enjoys very short average commutes of just over 8 minutes.
Median Income:
$52,000
Household Income:
$72,300
Family Income:
$84,500
Per Capita Income:
$41,000
Income Male:
$48,200
Income Female:
$41,800
Poverty Rate:
7.5%
Non English Speakers:
7.2%
Rent:
$1,900
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.9%
Commute Time:
8.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.8%
Bachelors or More:
42.1%
Education
How are the schools in Block Island, RI?
Block Island supports a small, community-oriented public school with a favorable student-teacher ratio, ideal for personalized education. Higher education opportunities are available nearby, with the University of Rhode Island located a short ferry ride away.
Public Schools
Name:
Block Island School
Street:
15 High Street
Phone:
401-466-5600
Students:
120
Student Teacher Ratio:
8.5
Colleges
Name:
University of Rhode Island
City:
Kingston
State:
RI
Distance:
18 miles (plus ferry)
Students:
17,000
Healthcare
Healthcare on Block Island is accessible through local primary care and emergency services, with additional hospital options nearby on the mainland. Most residents have health insurance coverage, and there are nearly two physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring essential health needs are met.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Block Island Health Services
Address:
6 Payne Road, Block Island, RI 02807
Phone:
(401) 466-2974
Type:
Primary Care & Emergency
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
South County Hospital
Address:
100 Kenyon Ave, Wakefield, RI 02879
Phone:
(401) 782-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.3%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Block Island, RI?
The Block Island housing market is characterized by high property values, with a median home price near $1 million and a majority of homes being owner-occupied. Rental options are limited but available, and the housing market remains stable with low foreclosure and vacancy rates.
Median Home Price:
$985,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,900
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.6%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
DMV services for Block Island residents are provided by the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles in Cranston, offering comprehensive support for licensing, registration, and vehicle needs. Information and resources are easily accessible both online and by phone.
State:
Rhode Island
Department:
Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
600 New London Ave, Cranston, RI 02920
Phone:
1-401-462-4368
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.