The smallest state in the country is large in heart. With scenic shorelines, beautiful woods, and no shortage of delicious seafood, Rhode Island makes a comfortable, quiet place to retire. NewHomeSource is highlighting the top 10 cities for retirees in Rhode Island, making it easy to find the perfect destination to start this new chapter in your life. If you’re moving to the state for the first time, check out the first-time homebuyer programs for Rhode Islanders. And don’t forget to check the safety of your new city against our safest cities in Rhode Island list, or if your builder is one of the best modular homebuilders here!
1. Central Falls
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 7.2%
Median Home Value: $159,100
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 82
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 289
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 21
Central Falls lands as our top pick for Rhode Island retirement. With over 22,000 folks in a little under 1.3 square miles, Central Falls feels like a big city in a small space. Despite its size, this city has it all: Parks, schools, places of worship, and no shortage of restaurants. The low crime rate means you’ll walk through the neighborhoods and enjoy everything Central Falls has to offer with peace of mind.
2. Woonsocket
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 13.7%
Median Home Value: $173,300
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 237
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 866
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 26
Woonsocket is a community of over 43,000 individuals ready to welcome you home. Located in Providence County, Woonsocket is known for its thriving culture and urban delights, including the Museum of Work & Culture, World War II Memorial Park, and Polar Express Station. The Blackstone River cuts through the city, and residents can enjoy kayaking along the blue waters on warm, sunny days.
3. West Warwick
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 16.4%
Median Home Value: $205,800
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 56
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 244
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 17
West Warwick is the youngest city in the state – it was incorporated in 1913. You can expect this city to give you a spring in your step as you relish in all it has to offer. The Pawtuxet River runs through the heart of the city and invites you to enjoy morning strolls along the river at Riverpoint Park. Whether you’re visiting the country club or the civic center, you’ll have a great time living here.
4. Pawtucket
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 13%
Median Home Value: $194,600
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 294
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 1,642
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 22
There’s plenty to love about Pawtucket! The city is home to beautiful sights such as Old Slater Mill National Historic Landmark and the Slater Memorial Park. Pawtucket is also home to multiple breweries, so there’s always a new drink to try. Visit the Rusty Wallace Racing Experience for a thrill, or take a step back in time in the Downtown Historic District and check out the shops.
5. Providence
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 10.8%
Median Home Value: $200,300
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 895
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 5,552
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 19
Providence is the capital of Rhode Island and the most populous city in the state. There’s no shortage of activities to explore: golf courses, a zoo, museums, and plenty of parks. Check out the Waterplace Park, which features art exhibits and festivals that overlook the nearby water basins.
6. Warwick
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 20%
Median Home Value: $225,300
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 79
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 1,300
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 20
Warwick is the third most populous city in Rhode Island and is nestled along Greenwich Bay. Plan to make the most of your waterside home by checking out all the state parks and walkways along the coastline. If you prefer to stay indoors, catch a show at the Warwick Center for the Arts, or refresh your taste buds with a drink from one of the many breweries.
7. North Providence
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 18.5%
Median Home Value: $217,900
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 44
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 209
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 18
North Providence is located just northwest of its namesake Providence. With a population of approximately 34,000, the town is a good choice for those who wish to live near the capital city without the crowd. If you’re looking for beautiful sights, check out the Governor John Notte Memorial Park, which features abundant green space and a beach.
8. Johnston
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 19.7%
Median Home Value: $231,400
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 32
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 327
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 19
Enjoy the best of Rhode Island’s greenery in Johnston. Get your daily fill of fresh air and wooded scenery at locations like Johnston Memorial Park and Snake Den State Park. History lovers will enjoy the Clemence-Irons House, a stone-ender museum; while wine aficionados will love tastings at Verde Vineyards.
9. East Providence
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 19.7%
Median Home Value: $221,700
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 62
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 500
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 20
Located along the eastern portion of the Seekonk River and Providence River, East Providence has no shortage of blue water to enjoy. Nature enthusiasts will love the Ten Mile River Greenway, a perfect hiking place when it’s cool outside. If you want to focus on relaxation, find a local eatery and end your night out with a true Northeastern experience: Watch the lights at the Pomham Rocks Lighthouse!
10. Coventry
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 17.3%
Median Home Value: $241,300
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 33
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 393
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 17
If your desire is to get away from it all, Coventry is the answer. A significant portion of the land is allocated for nature preserves, wildlife refuges, and state parks. There’s plenty of urban amenities as well, including grocery stores, restaurants, schools, and places of worship.
NewHomeSource pulled data from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Services, Medicare’s Hospital Compare and the U.S. Census Bureau. In the event exact crime data was unavailable, estimates were used. Median home price, number of hospitals, 65+ population, and crime rates were entered into an algorithm to calculate a score for each city whose population is at least 10,000.
Other Rhode Island Resources
Sarah graduated from Trinity University in 2012 with a degree in International Relations and Political Science. She writes blogs on new homes, decor, communities, and more for NewHomeSource. When she’s not writing, you can find her spending time with her three cats.
How to Choose a Credenza for Your Home