Best Cities for Families in Rhode Island

Rhode Island is a top-ten state for families, ranking #10 out of 50. With excellent schools, a low violent crime rate of 154 per 100K residents, and a median household income of $81,800, the state offers a solid foundation for raising children. Housing costs track close to the national average with a cost-of-living index of 101.

Education is the single most important factor for families choosing where to live, and Rhode Island delivers on this front. The state's high school graduation rate stands at 84%, trailing the national average. School quality has been a consistent strength, reflected in an education score of 86/100. At $13,124 per year for infant care, childcare is a significant budget item that families need to plan for.

Safety is the other pillar of family-friendly living. Rhode Island excels here with one of the lowest violent crime rates in the country at 154 incidents per 100,000 residents. With a cost-of-living index of 101, household expenses are close to the national norm — neither a major advantage nor a dealbreaker.