Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Wakefield, RI
Thinking of moving to Wakefield, RI? With a close-knit population of around 8,500, Wakefield offers a welcoming vibe, median home prices of $444,000, and average rents near $1,730. The area boasts a low violent crime rate of 112 per 100k, short average commutes of 24 minutes, and well-rated schools nearby. Residents enjoy a mild coastal climate, high educational attainment, and access to excellent healthcare, making Wakefield a charming choice for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Wakefield, RI
Demographics - Wakefield, RI
Wakefield is home to about 8,500 residents, with a median age of 44.2, reflecting a balanced mix of families and professionals. The community is predominantly White, with a small but growing diversity, and nearly 9% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density fosters both a sense of neighborhood connection and ample living space.
Population:
8,500
Density:
2,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.6%
Ethnic Composition
White:
91.0%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
2.5%
Others:
5.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Wakefield, RI?
Wakefield's cost of living is higher than the national average, with a median home value of $444,000 and typical rents around $1,730. Residents face moderate utility costs and state income tax rates ranging from 3.75% to 5.99%. While groceries and healthcare are slightly above average, the area offers quality amenities and a comfortable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$444,000
Gross Rent:
$1,730
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,730
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,300
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$730
State Taxes:
Low:
3.75%
|
High:
5.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
119.3
Grocery:
107.8
Housing:
128.4
Utilities:
116.2
Transportation:
112.6
Health Care:
108.4
Miscellaneous:
105.0
Crime
Is Wakefield, RI a safe place to live?
Wakefield enjoys a low violent crime rate of 112 incidents per 100,000, making it a safe place for families and individuals. Property crime is also relatively modest, with a resident's chance of encountering property crime at about 1 in 92. Overall, the town's secure environment contributes to its appeal as a welcoming community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
112
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,084
Crime Index:
1,196
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 892
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 92
Weather
What is the weather like in Wakefield, RI year-round?
Wakefield features a mild coastal climate with warm summers reaching highs of 82°F and winters with lows around 24°F. The area receives about 51 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on more than half of the days each year. Its pleasant seasonal changes make outdoor activities enjoyable year-round.
Winter
Min:
24°F
Max:
38°F
Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
51.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Wakefield residents benefit from strong household incomes, with a median of $88,400 and a poverty rate under 7%. The community is highly educated, as nearly half hold a bachelor's degree or higher, and the average commute is just under 24 minutes. Low unemployment and minimal public transit usage indicate a largely employed and car-commuting population.
Median Income:
$45,500
Household Income:
$88,400
Family Income:
$102,300
Per Capita Income:
$48,100
Income Male:
$53,000
Income Female:
$44,000
Poverty Rate:
6.8%
Non English Speakers:
8.6%
Rent:
$1,730
Unemployment Rate:
3.6%
Public Transport Usage:
1.4%
Commute Time:
23.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.3%
Bachelors or More:
49.8%
Education
How are the schools in Wakefield, RI?
Families in Wakefield have access to well-rated public and private schools, including South Kingstown High and Broad Rock Middle, both featuring favorable student-teacher ratios. The area also benefits from proximity to the University of Rhode Island, just four miles away, offering higher education opportunities. High educational attainment rates reflect the community's emphasis on learning.
Public Schools
Name:
South Kingstown High School
Street:
215 Columbia St
Phone:
401-360-1000
Students:
950
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.1
Name:
Broad Rock Middle School
Street:
351 Broad Rock Rd
Phone:
401-360-1800
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.7
Private Schools
Name:
Monsignor Clarke School
Street:
5074 Tower Hill Rd
Phone:
401-789-0860
Students:
280
Colleges
Name:
University of Rhode Island
City:
Kingston
State:
RI
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
17,800
Healthcare
Wakefield boasts excellent healthcare access, anchored by South County Hospital offering comprehensive services and emergency care. With nearly 3 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 95% health insurance coverage, the community receives quality medical support. The area's healthcare index reflects reliable and efficient services for all ages.
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:
2.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
95.2%
Health Care Index:
81.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Wakefield, RI?
The housing market in Wakefield is stable and competitive, with a median home price of $444,000 and owner-occupancy at nearly 68%. Average two-bedroom rents run about $1,730, and the area has seen steady home appreciation of over 7% in the past year. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates highlight a healthy, in-demand real estate market.
Median Home Price:
$444,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,730
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents of Wakefield are served by the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles, located in nearby Cranston. The DMV offers essential licensing, registration, and vehicle services, with information and online resources available at dmv.ri.gov. The central office provides accessible support for all motor vehicle 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.