If you’re thinking about buying a home in Rhode Island—or relocating here from out of state—this post is your 2026 market roadmap.

We’ll break down:

• What’s happening with prices and inventory

• What it actually costs to live here now

• What towns are seeing the most growth or shifts

• How to figure out where you belong

• And how I help buyers navigate this market with strategy and confidence

I'm Jess Powers, a full-time Realtor I hope that you find my website--especially my blog--useful. I post educational content with the aim to make sure my clients have up to date data that they can rely upon to help them make the real estate decisions that are right for each client. I’ve helped hundreds of buyers move here, whether from across the country or just across the Bay. Let’s talk about where the market is right now.

Statewide Market Trends: What the Numbers Say

Let’s start with the big picture.

At the end of 2025, the median sale price for a single-family home in Rhode Island reached $499,900. That’s up from $474,700 in 2024—a 5.3% increase. Prices peaked in May and June at $530,000. Homes are still selling, with just over 7,800 sales recorded in 2025. That’s up slightly from the year before, but still far below 2020’s high of over 11,600 sales. We continue to have a housing shortage in Rhode Island--we rank dead last when it comes to new construction builds. We just don't have the space!

Here’s how the median sale price for single family homes has changed over the past several years:

• 2019: $285,000

• 2020: $319,000

• 2021: $365,000

• 2022: $401,000

• 2023: $425,000

• 2024: $474,700

• 2025: $499,900

This reflects a 75% increase in home values in just six years! We all should have been buying more homes in 2020 when those rates were dirt cheap!!

Homes are averaging 33 days on market, up slightly from 31 the year before. Our seasonal cycles impact that data--our Spring season kicks in at the end of February and the market stays strong through the end of June. It tends to slow down a bit at the peak of Beach Season in July but. picks up again mid-August. We don't typically see another slow down until right around Thanksgiving. Our market stays a bit slow through the end of November and through the end of January. 

What That Means for Buyers in 2026

Rhode Island is still a competitive, supply-constrained market. Prices are rising steadily—not spiking—and demand continues to outweigh inventory.

If you’re hoping for prices to drop, you’re likely going to be waiting a while--I have buyers that started waiting in 2018 for prices to drop and guess what? They missed out on thousands of dollars of equity.

Most towns aren’t building new inventory fast enough, and desirable neighborhoods continue to see high demand, especially those with walkability, coastal access, or top-ranked schools.

Regional Trends: What’s Happening in Key Towns

Let’s look at how different parts of Rhode Island performed in 2025.

East Greenwich

• Median: $888,625

• Prices up 11%

• Sales down 12%

East Greenwich remains one of the most desirable towns in the state, especially for buyers looking for excellent schools, historic charm, and walkable downtowns. The drop in sales volume reflects tight inventory, not lack of demand.

North Kingstown

• Median: $650,000

• Inventory down 11%

• Prices up 3.6%

Another high-demand town, North Kingstown appeals to buyers who want coastal living without being too far from Providence or the airport.

Pawtucket

• Median: $400,000

• Sales up 16.5%

• Prices up 3.9%

Pawtucket saw one of the highest jumps in activity, with buyers seeking affordability and access to the commuter rail. It continues to be a strong choice for first-time buyers and investors.

Providence

• Median: $447,500

• Prices up 5.7%

• Sales down 10%

Providence’s urban market remains competitive, especially in neighborhoods like Elmhurst, Mount Pleasant, and anywhere on the East Side. Keep in mind that prices in Providence vary WIDELY--check out my YouTube videos for more in depth info. 

Narragansett

• Median: $932,500

• Sales up 19%

Narragansett continues to thrive as a lifestyle and second-home destination. With limited coastal inventory and steady demand, pricing here remains strong.

Exeter

• Median: $650,000

• Prices up 19.5%

• Sales up 24%

Exeter is a great option for buyers looking for space, land, and privacy. It’s become increasingly popular with remote workers and those who want a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing access to major routes.

What It Actually Costs to Live in Rhode Island

When you're thinking about relocating, the purchase price is just part of the story. Here's a breakdown of real-life cost-of-living factors that vary by town:

• Property Taxes: Town-by-town differences can impact monthly payments significantly.

• Utilities: Many homes still use oil heat throuhgout RI, and there are also many communities that do not have municipal town or sewer connections. Air conditioning is not standard in older homes.

• Beach Access Fees: Some towns charge for beach passes—even for residents.

• HOAs & Condos: You'll see more fees in waterfront areas and new developments. 

• Transportation: Your commute may shape what trade-offs you make for space or affordability.

I walk every client through these variables before we ever set foot in a showing.

How to Use My Videos and Resources

If you’re still learning about Rhode Island, my town guides are your best next step. These videos break down local markets, housing types, taxes, and lifestyle details in a way that’s real—not sugar-coated.

You’ll learn:

• Which neighborhoods have the vibe you’re after

• What kind of home you can afford in different areas

• What features and flaws to expect in older homes

• How walkable or commuter-friendly each town really is

Whether you're wondering if you belong in Wickford or Wakefield, East Greenwich or Edgewood, the videos on my site and YouTube channel will help you narrow it down. If I don't have a video for the area you want, that just means I haven't had the time to make one yet. Let's just chat!

How I Help Buyers Relocate Smarter

Here’s what I bring to the table as your Realtor and relocation guide:

• I’ve relocated to Rhode Island myself—I get the process from both sides.

• I own and renovate historic homes—I know what to look for and what to avoid.

• I’ve worked with buyers from California, Texas, New York, DC, and across the country—many of whom bought homes sight unseen with confidence.

• I offer detailed info on taxes, schools, infrastructure, housing stock, and town quirks.

• I provide honest guidance with zero pressure—and I help you build a smart buying strategy that aligns with your budget and lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

The Rhode Island real estate market in 2026 is steady, competitive, and opportunity-filled—especially for buyers who do their homework and move with clarity.

Whether you're buying your first home, relocating for work, or investing for the long haul, you need the right strategy and local insight. I’m here to help you cut through the noise, understand your options, and make confident decisions.

If you're ready to explore the market—or just want to figure out where you might fit in Rhode Island—reach out. I’d love to help.