What Should I Know Before Moving to Bristol?

Check the cost of living, housing, traffic, and public transit in Bristol. Each neighborhood has its own vibe, so pick one that fits your lifestyle. Be prepared for Bristol climate and weather.

How Much Do Movers Charge in Bristol?

Moving within Bristol usually costs between $300 and $1,500. Moving long distances can cost anywhere from $2,000 to more than $5,000. The price may go up if you need extra services like packing or storage. Fill out Movers.com quote form to compare the quotes easily.

What’s the Best Time of the Year to Move to Bristol?

While moves happen year-round, spring and fall are often more comfortable in Bristol. Booking outside of peak summer or winter seasons can save money and make scheduling easier.

Do Moving Companies in Bristol Offer Packing and Unpacking Services?

Yes! Majority of moving companies in Bristol offer full service moving, which means they will help you pack, unpack, and arrange your belongings.

When You Move from Bristol, How Far in Advance Should I Schedule My Move?

You should plan your move from Bristol at least 4 to 8 weeks in advance, especially if you're moving during the busy season (summer). You can get better availability, prices, and flexibility with your moving date if you book early. If you book at the last minute, you may have fewer choices or pay more.

Moving to Bristol, RI | Find Trusted Movers & Services

Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bristol, RI

Thinking of moving to Bristol, RI? With a friendly population of around 22,500, this coastal town offers a charming New England lifestyle, safe neighborhoods (violent crime just 77 per 100K), and great schools. The median home price is $436,000 and average rents are about $1,425, with a cost of living slightly above the national average. Residents enjoy short 26-minute commutes, highly-rated local schools, and plenty of sunny days—making Bristol perfect for families and professionals seeking scenic living by the bay.

Demographics - Bristol, RI

Bristol, RI is home to about 22,500 residents, with a population density that creates a close-knit community feel. The median age of 43.1 suggests a balanced mix of working professionals, families, and retirees, and the town is predominantly White, with a small but growing diversity and 7.5% speaking languages other than English at home.

Population:

22,493

Density:

2,400 per sq mi

Median Age:

43.1

Gender Ratio:

92 males per 100 females

Non-English Speakers Percentage:

7.5%

Ethnic Composition

White:

92.1%

Black:

1.7%

Asian:

1.2%

Others:

5.0%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Bristol, RI?

The cost of living in Bristol is moderately high, with a median home value of $436,000 and average rents around $1,425, reflecting its coastal appeal and quality amenities. Essential expenses like utilities and groceries are also above the national average, but residents benefit from a strong housing market and competitive local services.

Median House Value:

$436,000

Gross Rent:

$1,425

Monthly Electricity Charges:

$135

Auto Insurance:

$1,710

House Owner Cost With Mortgage:

$2,080

House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:

$725

State Taxes:

Low:

3.75%

High:

5.99%

Cost Of Living Index:

123.6

Grocery:

111.4

Housing:

142.2

Utilities:

115.6

Transportation:

116.5

Health Care:

108.9

Miscellaneous:

105.2

Crime

Is Bristol, RI a safe place to live?

Bristol is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of just 77 incidents per 100,000 people and property crime rates well below national averages. Residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families and those seeking a secure environment.

Violent Crimes Per 100k:

Property Crimes Per 100k:

870

Crime Index:

947

Chance Of Violent Crime:

1 in 1,300

Chance Of Property Crime:

1 in 115

Weather

What is the weather like in Bristol, RI year-round?

Bristol experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 83°F and chilly winters dropping to the low 20s. The town gets nearly 50 inches of rain annually and enjoys about 54% sunny days, ideal for those who appreciate coastal New England weather.

Winter

Min:

23°F

Max:

39°F

Spring

Min:

42°F

Max:

65°F

Summer

Min:

63°F

Max:

83°F

Fall

Min:

47°F

Max:

70°F

Average Rainfall Inches:

49.6 inches

Sunny Days Percentage:

54%

Neighbors

Residents in Bristol benefit from a median household income of $84,300 and a relatively low poverty rate of 7.8%. The community is well-educated, with over 40% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, and average commute times are just under 26 minutes, supporting a comfortable suburban lifestyle.

Median Income:

$39,800

Household Income:

$84,300

Family Income:

$100,700

Per Capita Income:

$43,300

Income Male:

$51,500

Income Female:

$44,000

Poverty Rate:

7.8%

Non English Speakers:

12.6%

Rent:

$1,425

Unemployment Rate:

3.5%

Public Transport Usage:

2.2%

Commute Time:

25.9 minutes

Education

High School or Higher:

94.5%

Bachelors or More:

41.8%

Education

How are the schools in Bristol, RI?

Bristol offers a variety of educational opportunities, including well-regarded public and private schools with favorable student-teacher ratios. The presence of Roger Williams University adds vibrancy to the town and provides higher education options within the community.

Public Schools

Name:

Mt. Hope High School

Street:

199 Chestnut St

Phone:

401-254-5980

Students:

1,045

Student Teacher Ratio:

13.1

Name:

Colt Andrews School

Street:

570 Hope St

Phone:

401-254-5993

Students:

410

Student Teacher Ratio:

12.5

Private Schools

Name:

Our Lady of Mount Carmel School

Street:

127 State St

Phone:

401-253-8455

Students:

215

Colleges

Name:

Roger Williams University

City:

Bristol

State:

Distance:

0 miles

Students:

4,600

Name:

Salve Regina University

City:

Newport

State:

Distance:

12 miles

Students:

2,800

Healthcare

Bristol has excellent healthcare access, with major hospitals nearby and a high rate of insured residents (95.7%). The area offers a robust selection of primary care and specialty services, and there are about three physicians for every 1,000 residents.

Major Hospitals

Name:

Newport Hospital

Address:

11 Friendship St, Newport, RI 02840

Phone:

(401) 846-6400

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Name:

Bristol County Medical Center

Address:

1180 Hope St, Bristol, RI 02809

Phone:

(401) 253-8900

Type:

Multi-Specialty Clinic

Emergency Services:

Physicians Per 1000:

3.0

Health Insurance Coverage:

95.7%

Health Care Index:

76.9

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Bristol, RI?

The housing market in Bristol is strong, with a median home price of $436,000 and steady annual appreciation of 7.2%. Most residents own their homes, and rental options are available with a low vacancy rate, reflecting consistent demand and stable property values.

Median Home Price:

$436,000

Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:

$1,425

Owner Occupied Rate:

70.6%

Rental Vacancy Rate:

4.0%

Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):

7.2%

New Construction Rate:

1.2%

Foreclosure Rate:

0.4%

DMV Information

Vehicle registration and licensing in Bristol are managed by the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Cranston. Residents can access a range of DMV services both online and in person, streamlining local transportation needs.

State:

Rhode Island

Department:

Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles

Address:

600 New London Ave, Cranston, RI 02920

Phone:

401-462-4368

Website:

https://dmv.ri.gov

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.