Cost of Living in Bristol County, Rhode Island
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bristol County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Bristol County ranks #721 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 23%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bristol County, Rhode Island
Bristol renters beat the national burden
At 14.6%, Bristol County's rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national average, meaning renters here spend less of their paycheck on housing than typical Americans. The county's median household income of $110,926 substantially outpaces the national median of $74,755, giving residents more breathing room in their budgets.
Most affordable county in Rhode Island
Bristol County ranks as Rhode Island's most housing-affordable county, with a rent-to-income ratio of 14.6% compared to the state average of 17.0%. This nearly 2.5-point advantage means Bristol renters keep more of their income for other expenses than their neighbors across the state.
Lower rent, higher income than peers
Bristol's median rent of $1,348 is slightly below the state average of $1,362, while its median household income of $110,926 tops Washington County ($102,478) and Newport County ($100,859). This combination—steady wages paired with reasonable housing costs—makes Bristol a relative bargain in southern New England.
Where Bristol housing dollars go
Renters in Bristol spend about $1,348 monthly, while homeowners pay $2,080—together consuming roughly 27% of household income for housing. The median home value of $468,000 reflects a stable market where mortgage costs remain manageable relative to local incomes.
Consider Bristol for balanced living
If you're weighing Rhode Island counties, Bristol offers the rare combination of above-average income and below-average housing burden. Renters and homeowners alike will find more financial flexibility here than in Newport County or Providence County.
Cost of Living Advisory: Bristol County
Affordability Verdict
Bristol County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,348/month representing approximately 14.6% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Bristol County is $1,348/month, while owner costs run $2,080/month. Renting saves approximately $732/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $53,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $89,143/year. With a median household income of $110,926, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Bristol County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Rhode Island, Bristol County is more affordable than Kent County by roughly 7% ($1,348/mo vs $1,264/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bristol County
Rent Burden
14.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,588
per month
Owner Cost Burden
22.5%
of gross income
The median home in Bristol County may be a stretch
Median home value is $468,000. Estimated monthly cost: $3,736 vs. your max of $2,588.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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