Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Kingston, RI
Considering a move to Kingston, RI? This charming college town is home to about 6,600 residents, with a youthful vibe thanks to the University of Rhode Island. The median home price is $445,000 and average rent for a 2-bedroom is $1,690, reflecting a moderate cost of living. Kingston boasts a low violent crime rate (94 per 100K), short average commutes of 22 minutes, and highly educated neighbors. Enjoy four distinct seasons and easy access to quality healthcare and educational opportunities in this scenic, welcoming community.
Demographics - Kingston, RI
Demographics - Kingston, RI
Kingston is a vibrant college town of about 6,600 people, featuring a young median age of 21.5 driven by the University of Rhode Island's presence. The community is predominantly White with a modest mix of other backgrounds, and a balanced gender ratio, offering a diverse yet close-knit atmosphere. Around 6.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home, adding to the area's cultural character.
Population:
6,600
Density:
1,350 per sq mi
Median Age:
21.5
Gender Ratio:
85 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
78.0%
Black:
5.5%
Asian:
3.8%
Others:
12.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Kingston, RI?
The cost of living in Kingston is moderately high, with a median home value of $445,000 and average rent around $1,690 for a two-bedroom apartment. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are above the national average, reflecting the area's desirable amenities and university influence. State income taxes range from 3.75% to 5.99%, which is typical for Rhode Island.
Median House Value:
$445,000
Gross Rent:
$1,690
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,650
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,180
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$670
State Taxes:
Low:
3.75%
|
High:
5.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
118.0
Grocery:
115.0
Housing:
120.0
Utilities:
110.0
Transportation:
113.0
Health Care:
107.0
Miscellaneous:
106.0
Crime
Is Kingston, RI a safe place to live?
Kingston is considered a safe community, with a notably low violent crime rate of 94 incidents per 100,000 people and a 1 in 1,060 chance of being a victim. Property crime is more common, with a rate of 1,050 per 100,000, but overall, the city maintains a secure, welcoming atmosphere for residents and students alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
94
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,144
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,060
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Kingston, RI year-round?
Residents of Kingston experience classic New England weather, with cold, snowy winters averaging lows of 22°F and warm summers peaking at 81°F. The area enjoys about 54% sunny days annually and receives close to 48 inches of rain each year, making for lush, seasonal scenery.

Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
39°F

Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
66°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
81°F

Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Kingston's neighbors are well-educated, with over 95% holding a high school diploma and nearly half earning a bachelor's degree or higher. Median household income stands at $75,200, and the community has a low unemployment rate of 3.9%. Commute times average just over 22 minutes, and public transport usage is minimal, indicating a largely car-dependent population.
Median Income:
$38,000
Household Income:
$75,200
Family Income:
$92,500
Per Capita Income:
$22,800
Income Male:
$46,500
Income Female:
$36,200
Poverty Rate:
11.5%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$1,690
Unemployment Rate:
3.9%
Public Transport Usage:
2.1%
Commute Time:
22.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
95.2%
Bachelors or More:
48.2%
Education
How are the schools in Kingston, RI?
Kingston offers quality educational opportunities, from strong public and private schools like Kingston Hill Academy and The Compass School to higher education at the University of Rhode Island. The university, located in the heart of town, enrolls over 17,000 students and contributes to the area's youthful energy and academic culture.

Public Schools
Name:
Kingston Hill Academy
Street:
850 Stony Fort Rd
Phone:
401-783-8282
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.5

Private Schools
Name:
The Compass School
Street:
537 Old North Rd
Phone:
401-788-8322
Students:
175

Colleges
Name:
University of Rhode Island
City:
Kingston
State:
RI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
17,600
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Kingston is strong, with South County Hospital nearby and 2.7 physicians per 1,000 residents. Health insurance coverage is high at 96.1%, ensuring most locals receive necessary medical care. The area boasts a solid healthcare index, contributing to overall well-being for families and students.

Major Hospitals
Name:
South County Hospital
Address:
100 Kenyon Ave, Wakefield, RI 02879
Phone:
(401) 782-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
96.1%
Health Care Index:
76.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Kingston, RI?
The Kingston housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $445,000 and a 6.4% appreciation rate over the past year. Owner-occupancy is common at 61.2%, and average rent for a two-bedroom unit is $1,690. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates suggest a stable, desirable market for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$445,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,690
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents use the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles for licensing and vehicle services, located in nearby Cranston. The DMV offers comprehensive resources and support through its central office and website, ensuring convenient access for Kingston locals.
State:
Rhode Island
Department:
Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
600 New London Ave, Cranston, RI 02920
Phone:
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.