Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Newport, RI
Considering a move to Newport, RI? With a population of 25,463, Newport offers historic charm, beautiful coastal scenery, and a vibrant small-town feel. The median home price is $525,000, and average rents are around $1,480, reflecting a higher cost of living, but the city’s short 22-minute average commute and strong educational offerings make it attractive. Newport has moderate crime rates, access to major healthcare at Newport Hospital, and enjoys mild summers with 57% sunny days—perfect for enjoying its famous seaside lifestyle.
Demographics - Newport, RI
Demographics - Newport, RI
Newport, RI is home to about 25,463 residents, with a median age of 43.4 and a population density of 3,100 people per square mile. The city features a diverse community, with over 80% identifying as White, 7% as Black, and a notable 12.3% speaking a language other than English at home. This blend creates a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers seeking a coastal New England lifestyle.
Population:
25,463
Density:
3,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
43.4
Gender Ratio:
89 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
12.3%

Ethnic Composition
White:
80.7%
Black:
7.2%
Asian:
2.2%
Others:
9.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Newport, RI?
Living in Newport comes with a higher cost of living, with a median home value of $525,000 and average rent of $1,480 per month. Utilities and groceries are also above the national average, contributing to a cost of living index of 133.5. However, residents enjoy access to quality amenities and scenic surroundings.
Median House Value:
$525,000
Gross Rent:
$1,480
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,520
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,320
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$720
State Taxes:
Low:
3.75%
|
High:
5.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
133.5
Grocery:
121.4
Housing:
159.7
Utilities:
117.5
Transportation:
120.2
Health Care:
114.2
Miscellaneous:
110.3
Crime
Is Newport, RI a safe place to live?
Newport experiences moderate crime rates, with about 214 violent crimes and 1,980 property crimes per 100,000 residents. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is roughly 1 in 467, while property crime risk stands at 1 in 51. These rates are typical for a small city with a vibrant tourist scene.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
214
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,980
Crime Index:
2,194
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 467
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 51
Weather
What is the weather like in Newport, RI year-round?
Newport enjoys a mild coastal climate, with summer highs averaging 78°F and winter lows around 26°F. The city receives about 47.8 inches of annual rainfall and boasts 57% sunny days. This pleasant weather makes outdoor activities and seaside living especially appealing.

Winter
Min:
26°F
Max:
39°F

Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
64°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
78°F

Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
Newport households have a median income of $81,900, with a family median of $102,500 and a per capita income of $46,100. The area features a well-educated population—nearly 44% hold a bachelor's degree or higher—with an average commute of 22 minutes. The city’s diverse mix of locals and newcomers fosters a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere.
Median Income:
$38,400
Household Income:
$81,900
Family Income:
$102,500
Per Capita Income:
$46,100
Income Male:
$51,500
Income Female:
$44,000
Poverty Rate:
11.7%
Non English Speakers:
12.3%
Rent:
$1,480
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
3.3%
Commute Time:
22.1 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.8%
Bachelors or More:
43.7%
Education
How are the schools in Newport, RI?
Newport offers strong educational opportunities, including well-rated public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and several private options. The city is also home to Salve Regina University and a branch of the Community College of Rhode Island, giving residents access to higher education locally. This robust educational network supports families and lifelong learners alike.

Public Schools
Name:
Rogers High School
Street:
15 Wickham Rd
Phone:
401-847-6235
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.9
Name:
Thompson Middle School
Street:
55 Broadway
Phone:
401-847-1493
Students:
475
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5

Private Schools
Name:
St. Michael’s Country Day School
Street:
180 Rhode Island Ave
Phone:
401-849-5970
Students:
285

Colleges
Name:
Salve Regina University
City:
Newport
State:
RI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,800
Name:
Community College of Rhode Island (Newport Campus)
City:
Newport
State:
RI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,200
Healthcare
Newport residents benefit from excellent healthcare access, anchored by Newport Hospital, a full-service facility offering emergency care. There are 3.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and a high health insurance coverage rate of 94.4%. These factors ensure comprehensive and convenient medical services for the community.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Newport Hospital
Address:
11 Friendship St, Newport, RI 02840
Phone:
(401) 846-6400
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.4%
Health Care Index:
79.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Newport, RI?
The Newport housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $525,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,480. About half of the housing is owner-occupied, and the market has seen a 7.2% appreciation over the past year. Rental vacancies are moderate, making it possible to find both rental and ownership opportunities.
Median Home Price:
$525,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,480
Owner Occupied Rate:
50.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Vehicle services in Newport are managed by the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles, with the main office located in Cranston. Residents can access driver licensing, registration, and other DMV services online or by phone at 1-401-462-4368. The DMV provides convenient resources to support local transportation needs.
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.