Independent Living in Rhode Island

Rhode Island is known as “The Ocean State” because a large portion of the state borders the Atlantic Ocean. While it may be the smallest state in the union – with a total area of only 1,045 square miles – “Little Rhody” still has plenty to offer. Rhode Island’s vibrant cities like Providence and Pawtucket, along with its pristine beaches and proximity to the Boston metropolitan area make it one of the Northeast’s ideal retirement destinations.

Currently, A Place for Mom partners with more than 20 retirement communities in Rhode Island that provide independent living. Our Senior Living Advisors can provide you with a list of over-55 communities in RI. The median monthly cost of independent living in Rhode Island is about $3,700.

Top cities in Rhode Island

Warwick East Greenwich Providence Barrington Cumberland East Providence

Rhode Island Independent Living Regulations

Each state regulates senior living communities differently. Because independent living is often provided by assisted living communities, states may regulate independent living within their guidelines for assisted living. You can use APFM’s guide to assisted living regulations to learn more about access to community records in Rhode Island.

55+ communities in RI are also known as independent living communities or simply as retirement communities. These communities are geared towards seniors who are able to live on their own, without daily assistance, and prefer to live among people their age. This usually means residents are self-sufficient and do not require hands-on care. Think of independent living communities as age-restricted (typically 55+) complexes, which provide organized activities, meal services, and transportation.

Cost of Living

Overall, the cost of living in Rhode Island is considered to be less affordable than the national average. Rhode Island is rated as more expensive than average in every index category. All index scores are based on a scale with the national average set at 100.

Price Indexes

Cost of Living: 123
Groceries: 106
Housing: 129
Utilities: 124
Transportation: 124

Demographics

About 17% of Rhode Island's population are seniors. In the 2016 presidential election, Rhode Island leaned considerably liberal. Rhode Island is the smallest state in the nation in terms of land mass and ranked 43rd by population.

2016 Presidential Election

Voted Democratic: 54%
Voted Republican: 39%
Voted third party: 7%

Population

Median age: 40
Over the age of 55: 31%
2018 population: 1,057,315
2020 population: 1,058,975
Estimated 2025 population: 1,063,136

Miscellaneous

36% regularly attend a religious service
40% consider themselves atheist, agnostic, or a non-believer
The state has a total of 677 congregations
There are 30 Masonic lodges in the state

Climate and Weather

Rhode Island's climate ranges from oceanic in the south along the coast, to humid continental in the northern part of the state, and humid subtropical in the eastern portion. Overall, Rhode Island has hot summers and above average precipitation.