Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Providence, RI
Considering a move to Providence, RI? With a vibrant population of 189,563 and a median home price around $343,000, Providence offers a lively urban lifestyle and a diverse community. While the cost of living is reasonable relative to other Northeast cities, the rental market is competitive, with average two-bedroom rents at $1,490. Commutes average just under 26 minutes, and the city boasts renowned higher education institutions like Brown University and RISD. Providence enjoys a classic New England climate with 54% sunny days and easy access to top hospitals, making it a well-rounded choice for city living.
Demographics - Providence, RI
Demographics - Providence, RI
Providence is home to nearly 190,000 residents, featuring a youthful median age of 31 and a vibrant mix of cultures, with over one in five residents speaking a non-English language at home. The city is characterized by a high population density and a diverse ethnic composition, making it an energetic and inclusive urban environment.
Population:
189,563
Density:
9,700 per sq mi
Median Age:
30.9
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
22.6%
Ethnic Composition
White:
36.6%
Black:
15.8%
Asian:
6.7%
Others:
40.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Providence, RI?
The cost of living in Providence is moderately above the national average, with a cost of living index of 110.3. Median home values are about $343,000 and typical rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,490, offering relatively accessible options for the Northeast, while everyday expenses like utilities and groceries remain manageable.
Median House Value:
$343,000
Gross Rent:
$1,490
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$2,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$620
State Taxes:
Low:
3.75%
|
High:
5.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
110.3
Grocery:
105.4
Housing:
108.2
Utilities:
108.9
Transportation:
110.6
Health Care:
103.1
Miscellaneous:
106.0
Crime
Is Providence, RI a safe place to live?
Providence experiences a moderate crime rate, with a 1 in 209 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 49 chance for property crime. While the city’s crime index reflects some urban challenges, most neighborhoods remain safe and proactive policing contributes to community security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
478
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,050
Crime Index:
2,528
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 209
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 49
Weather
What is the weather like in Providence, RI year-round?
Providence enjoys a classic New England climate, featuring warm summers with highs around 83°F and cold winters averaging lows of 23°F. Residents experience about 54% sunny days annually and nearly 48 inches of rainfall, making for a balanced mix of weather throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
39°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
66°F
Summer
Min:
64°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Providence’s neighborhoods are a blend of working families and young professionals, with a median household income of $56,970 and a poverty rate of 22.5%. Many residents use public transportation, and commute times average just under 26 minutes, reflecting both urban convenience and a strong sense of local community.
Median Income:
$34,400
Household Income:
$56,970
Family Income:
$62,500
Per Capita Income:
$26,100
Income Male:
$36,500
Income Female:
$31,200
Poverty Rate:
22.5%
Non English Speakers:
38.2%
Rent:
$1,490
Unemployment Rate:
5.6%
Public Transport Usage:
9.2%
Commute Time:
25.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
82.4%
Bachelors or More:
29.3%
Education
How are the schools in Providence, RI?
Providence offers a range of public and private schools, including top-rated options like Classical High School, and is renowned for its prestigious colleges such as Brown University and RISD. The city’s educational landscape supports a diverse student body and fosters academic excellence across all levels.
Public Schools
Name:
Classical High School
Street:
770 Westminster St
Phone:
401-456-9145
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.1
Name:
Nathan Bishop Middle School
Street:
101 Sessions St
Phone:
401-456-9340
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2
Private Schools
Name:
La Salle Academy
Street:
612 Academy Ave
Phone:
401-351-7750
Students:
1,480
Colleges
Name:
Brown University
City:
Providence
State:
RI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
10,700
Name:
Providence College
City:
Providence
State:
RI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
4,300
Name:
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)
City:
Providence
State:
RI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,500
Healthcare
The city provides excellent healthcare access, with major hospitals like Rhode Island Hospital and The Miriam Hospital offering comprehensive services and emergency care. Most residents are insured, and Providence boasts a high physician-to-population ratio, ensuring quality medical care is widely available.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Rhode Island Hospital
Address:
593 Eddy St, Providence, RI 02903
Phone:
(401) 444-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
The Miriam Hospital
Address:
164 Summit Ave, Providence, RI 02906
Phone:
(401) 793-2500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.2%
Health Care Index:
77.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Providence, RI?
Providence's housing market features a median home price of $343,000 and average rents of $1,490 for a two-bedroom, with homes appreciating at a rate of 6.3% over the past year. While only about 39% of homes are owner-occupied, rental options are plentiful and the market remains active and competitive.
Median Home Price:
$343,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,490
Owner Occupied Rate:
38.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are provided by the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles in nearby Cranston, offering convenient access for licensing, registration, and other vehicle needs. Residents can utilize online resources or visit the main office for efficient service.
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.