Warwick, RIBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Situated along the shores of Narragansett Bay, Warwick is a hidden gem with a coastal allure. With rich maritime heritage, picturesque beaches and a friendly community, Rhode Island’s second-largest city is full of opportunities and maintains affordability.
Warwick, RI, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
Located in the heart of the Ocean State and along Narragansett Bay, Warwick, RI, is one of the best places to live in the U.S. Locals have access to 39 miles of glorious coastline that comes with everything coastal dreams are made of, from clam chowder stops to picturesque lighthouses and sandy beaches to stroll. There’s even a stone circle for meditation at Warwick City Park, a 126-acre oasis with a saltwater beach and a legendary claim that it hosted the first-ever clambakes.
Just outside of Providence, Warwick is the second-largest city in Rhode Island. The city is a historically significant spot, too. Warwick is the site of the Gaspee Affair, one of America’s first acts of rebellion against the British government during the lead-up to the Revolution.
Good schools, safe neighborhoods and easy access to big cities along the eastern seaboard all contribute to the quality of life in Warwick. As an added bonus, Warwick is within a 75-mile radius of two-thirds of New England’s population, making the city very accessible. In addition, the city is made up of 30 unique villages, and residents have a penchant for civic engagement.
Of course, doughboys make life sweeter, too. Grab one of these doughnuts topped with sugar, cinnamon sugar and powdered sugar from Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder House during a trip to Oakland Beach Park.
Warwick, RI Quality of Life LivScore
Warwick, RI Top Categories
Education
Transportation
Amenities
Warwick ranks highest for education, transportation and amenities.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Warwick, RI
The beaches beckon in the summer, which is warm and humid. Winter brings cold, snowy days. And autumn? It’s a dream, with fall foliage and apple picking at nearby orchards. The average highs and lows are 81°F and 62°F (summer) and 40°F and 23°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Warwick is approximately 33 inches. Warwick typically sees snow from November to April, with the heaviest snowfall occurring in January and February.
The average annual rainfall in Warwick is 48 inches, and the city typically receives the most rain in March.
Warwick averages 202 sunny days a year.
See roughly 20 lighthouses on a historic lighthouse tour with Save the Bay that departs from nearby Providence. Or pay a visit to Goddard Memorial State Park, which packs a lot of activity into 490 acres. Enjoy saltwater fishing, hiking, swimming, boating, 11 game fields, picnicking and horseback riding with 18 miles of bridle trails.
Warwick Weather
202 days
Average Annual Sun
48 inches
Average Annual Rain
33 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Warwick, RI
Warwick has a bit of a rebellious streak. As the site of America’s first blow for freedom, Pawtuxet Village hosts the annual Gaspee Days Celebration.
Enjoy an afternoon at Oakland Beach Park, which has a waterfront playground and a swimming beach.
Go on a story walk! The library program places an illustrated children’s book, displayed page by page, along walking paths and green spaces.
Dinner is served! Pick up a fresh catch, clam chowder and more from Dockside Seafood Marketplace.
The Local and State Economy in Warwick, RI
The economy in Rhode Island is largely shaped by manufacturing and service-based industries, so it’s no surprise that health care, retail trade and manufacturing are the largest industries in Warwick. The largest employers include Kent Hospital, Metropolitan Life Insurance and United Parcel Service (UPS), which has a facility in the area.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Warwick is 7%.
Yes, Rhode Island has a state income tax.
Warwick residents can stay in good health at any of the providers in the Providence metropolitan area. Kent Hospital is part of the Care New England Health System and has been nationally recognized in several areas, including stroke care, joint replacement and cardiac care.
Warwick is home to the Community College of Rhode Island.
Quick Facts About Warwick, RI
- Median Household Income
- $78,187
- Median Home Value
- $276,821
- Average State Property Tax
- $3,022
- Total Population
- 83,101
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $1,065
- Average Commute
- 20.53 minutes
Good schools and safe neighborhoods contribute to Warwick’s status as a best place to live in the U.S. It’s one of only two Rhode Island cities on the list. Read more about Warwick and other great communities in the Northeast. Another moving resource: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live.
