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
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.
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
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.