Cost of Living in Kent County, Rhode Island
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Kent County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Kent County ranks #1,882 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 40%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Kent County, Rhode Island
Kent rents remain reasonable nationwide
Kent County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.6% sits comfortably below the national stress point, allowing renters to manage housing costs without squeezing other budgets. With a median household income of $91,278—22% above the national median of $74,755—Kent households have meaningful financial flexibility.
Second-most affordable in Rhode Island
Kent County ranks second in Rhode Island for housing affordability with a rent-to-income ratio of 16.6%, just 0.4 points above Bristol County and 0.4 points below the state average. Renters here enjoy better affordability than in three other state counties.
Middle ground for rent and income
Kent's median rent of $1,264 is the lowest in the state, yet its median household income of $91,278 remains solidly middle-of-the-pack among Rhode Island counties. This balance makes Kent an attractive option for renters prioritizing lower monthly payments without sacrificing earning potential.
Kent's housing cost formula
Kent renters pay $1,264 monthly while homeowners face $1,775 in monthly costs, together representing about 27% of household income. The median home value of $333,900 is the state's lowest, reflecting Kent's appeal to budget-conscious buyers.
Value seekers should explore Kent
Kent County delivers Rhode Island's lowest rents without penalizing income earners, making it ideal for anyone seeking maximum housing affordability. Compare Kent's $1,264 rent against Newport's $1,652 to see where your dollar stretches furthest.
Cost of Living Advisory: Kent County
Affordability Verdict
Kent County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,264/month — about 16.6% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Kent County is $1,264/month, while owner costs run $1,775/month. Renting saves approximately $511/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $50,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $76,071/year. With a median household income of $91,278, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Kent County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Bristol County where rent averages $1,348/month, Kent County is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Kent County
Rent Burden
16.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,130
per month
Owner Cost Burden
23.3%
of gross income
The median home in Kent County may be a stretch
Median home value is $333,900. Estimated monthly cost: $2,666 vs. your max of $2,130.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Kent County, Rhode Island?
What is the median rent in Kent County?
Is Kent County affordable?
How does Kent County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Kent County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Kent County, Rhode Island? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Kent County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.