Cost of Living in Washington County, Rhode Island
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Washington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Washington County ranks #986 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 31%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Washington County, Rhode Island
Washington rents fit most budgets easily
Washington County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.3% sits comfortably below national benchmarks, allowing renters to manage housing costs without financial strain. The county's median household income of $102,478 ranks among the state's strongest, providing residents substantial income stability.
Third-most affordable in Rhode Island
Washington County ranks third statewide for affordability with a rent-to-income ratio of 15.3%, trailing only Bristol and Kent counties. At 1.7 points below the state average, Washington delivers better housing economics than Newport or Providence counties.
Premium location, reasonable costs
Washington's median rent of $1,303 and median household income of $102,478 position it between Bristol and Newport, offering a middle path. The median home value of $469,800 aligns closely with Bristol's $468,000, suggesting comparable coastal-area pricing.
Washington's balanced housing equation
Renters spend $1,303 monthly while homeowners pay $1,837, together consuming approximately 25% of household income—the state's best ratio after Bristol. The median home value of $469,800 reflects a robust housing market for a county with strong local wages.
Washington offers solid value proposition
Washington County combines strong incomes with manageable rents, making it attractive for anyone seeking affordable living without sacrificing earning potential. With a 15.3% rent-to-income ratio, you'll keep more of your paycheck than in four other state counties.
Cost of Living Advisory: Washington County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Washington County is affordable. The median rent is $1,303/month against a median household income of $102,478, putting rent at 15.3% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Washington County pay $1,303/month on average, compared to $1,837/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 29%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $52,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $78,729/year. With a median household income of $102,478, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Washington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Rhode Island, Washington County is more affordable than Providence County by roughly 5% ($1,303/mo vs $1,242/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Washington County
Rent Burden
15.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,391
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.5%
of gross income
The median home in Washington County may be a stretch
Median home value is $469,800. Estimated monthly cost: $3,751 vs. your max of $2,391.
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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