Cost of Living in Providence County, Rhode Island
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Providence County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Providence County, Rhode Island
Providence's affordability challenge deepens
With a rent-to-income ratio of 19.1%, Providence County renters spend nearly one-fifth of gross income on housing—above national comfort levels. The county's median household income of $78,204 is only slightly above the national median of $74,755, limiting the financial cushion many households enjoy.
Second-least affordable county statewide
Providence County ranks fourth among Rhode Island's five counties for affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio of 19.1%—2.1 points above the state average. Only Newport County faces a steeper housing burden for renters.
Lower rents, lower incomes than others
Providence's median rent of $1,242 is below the state average of $1,362, yet its median household income of $78,204 trails every other county significantly. This lower-wage environment means Providence renters, despite paying less rent, spend a higher share of income on housing.
Providence's income-to-housing mismatch
Renters pay $1,242 monthly while homeowners spend $1,712, together consuming about 31% of household income—the state's highest proportion. The median home value of $339,100 reflects moderate market conditions in Rhode Island's most populous county.
Providence requires careful budget planning
Providence County offers lower rents than Newport and Washington counties, but wage levels lag significantly, making housing a tighter budget item. If you're relocating for work, compare your job offer carefully against the 19.1% rent-to-income burden.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Providence County
Rent Burden
19.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,825
per month
Owner Cost Burden
26.3%
of gross income
The median home in Providence County may be a stretch
Median home value is $339,100. Estimated monthly cost: $2,707 vs. your max of $1,825.
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.