Retirement should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment after years of hard work. However, choosing the wrong location can quickly turn your golden years into a stressful experience.
Rhode Island, despite its charm and coastal beauty, has several towns that might not be ideal for retirees.
With high crime rates, struggling economies, and expensive housing costs, some Rhode Island communities present significant challenges for those seeking a peaceful retirement.
Recent studies consistently rank Rhode Island among the worst states for retirement in America, with WalletHub placing it 47th out of 50 states in 2024.
1. Providence, Rhode Island
Providence is the capital and largest city in Rhode Island, home to approximately 179,494 residents. While it offers cultural amenities and historical charm, the city presents numerous challenges for retirees seeking peace and financial stability.
Traffic congestion is a significant issue, with Providence ranking as the 33rd worst in the country for traffic problems. This can make simple errands and medical appointments frustrating experiences for older residents. The city also struggles with an alarmingly high unemployment rate of 7.8%, reflecting broader economic challenges that affect all residents, including retirees on fixed incomes.
Crime statistics paint a concerning picture for safety-conscious seniors. Providence contends with safety concerns, with its crime rate surpassing the national average by 40%. Despite its official status as the most challenging town in Rhode Island, it faces the second-highest rate of violent crime and takes the lead in property crime rates with 294 crimes per square mile.
A tough spot for retirees: High crime, heavy traffic, and low incomes make it a bad choice for those seeking a peaceful retirement. With a quarter of the population living below the poverty line and limited affordable housing options, retirees on fixed incomes may find their finances stretched thin.
2. Central Falls, Rhode Island
Central Falls is small but densely populated with 19,423 people packed into just 1.3 square miles, making it one of the most crowded cities in the state. This density contributes to urban challenges that can be particularly difficult for older residents to navigate.
The city faces severe economic hurdles with a troubling poverty rate of 24.9% and a 9.3% unemployment rate. The median income sits at just $40,235, significantly below what many financial advisors recommend for a comfortable retirement. These economic struggles have led to a history of municipal financial problems, including a high-profile bankruptcy in 2011, fired teachers, and past corruption scandals.
Safety concerns are paramount for retirees, and Central Falls presents significant challenges in this area. The crime statistics are alarming, with the community experiencing 422 violent crimes and 1,487 property crimes per 100,000 residents. This crime rate is approximately eight times higher than the state average, creating an environment where many seniors may not feel secure.
A tough spot for retirees: Crime and economic hardship make this place risky for seniors. The combination of high crime rates, financial instability, and limited resources for older adults creates a challenging environment for those seeking a peaceful retirement.
3. Bradford, Rhode Island
Bradford is a small town that flies under the radar for many Rhode Islanders, but retirees should be aware of its significant economic challenges. This quiet community struggles with financial stability issues that can directly impact retirement quality.
The poverty statistics are concerning, with a poverty rate of 15.8% affecting a substantial portion of the population. Even more alarming is the unemployment rate of 17.6%, which is more than double the state average. This lack of economic opportunity can affect everything from property values to local services that seniors rely on.
Housing affordability might initially seem attractive with lower home values, but this often reflects limited demand and economic stagnation rather than good value. The combination of low incomes and limited growth potential means retirees may not see their housing investments appreciate over time, potentially affecting their long-term financial security.
A tough spot for retirees: Poverty and job struggles could hurt retirees’ peace of mind. The limited economic opportunities, high unemployment, and lack of senior-focused amenities make Bradford a challenging place to enjoy retirement years.
4. Chepachet, Rhode Island
Chepachet, nestled in the northwest part of Rhode Island, has just 1,530 residents but faces disproportionate challenges, particularly regarding safety. This quaint town’s small size belies its security concerns, which should give potential retirees pause.
Crime statistics reveal a startling reality for this small community. Residents face a 1 in 201 likelihood of violent crime and an even more concerning 1 in 33.2 chance of falling victim to property crime. These rates are surprisingly high for such a small community and create an environment where retirees may not feel secure in their homes or while running errands.
The economic picture shows additional challenges with an unemployment rate over 4% and ambiguous employment statistics that raise questions about the town’s economic stability. These economic uncertainties can directly impact local services, property values, and the overall quality of life for retirees who often depend on stable communities for their fixed-income lifestyles.
A tough spot for retirees: Crime and financial strain make it a poor retirement pick. The combination of surprisingly high crime rates for a small town and economic instability creates an environment that may not provide the peace of mind that most retirees seek in their golden years.
5. Harrisville, Rhode Island
Harrisville struggles with profound economic challenges that directly impact quality of life for all residents, especially retirees on fixed incomes. The financial picture in this small community reveals systemic issues that make comfortable retirement difficult to achieve.
Income levels are particularly concerning, with a median income of only $29,663, which falls well below what financial experts recommend for retirement security. Even more alarming is the poverty rate of 35.3%, meaning more than one-third of residents struggle to meet basic needs. This widespread financial hardship affects community resources, services, and overall stability.
The housing market reflects these economic challenges with median home values at just $180,300, significantly below state and national averages. While lower housing costs might initially seem attractive to retirees, these values indicate limited growth potential and possible depreciation risks, potentially threatening one of retirees’ most significant assets.
A tough spot for retirees: Deep poverty and low incomes make it risky for retirees. The combination of widespread financial hardship, limited community resources, and stagnant property values creates an environment where retirement savings may not stretch as far as needed for a comfortable lifestyle.
6. Warwick, Rhode Island
Warwick, with its 80,749 residents, is one of Rhode Island’s larger communities but faces multiple challenges that make it less than ideal for retirees seeking peace and security. This coastal city struggles with issues that directly impact retirement quality.
Crime concerns are significant, with both violent and property crime rates exceeding state and national averages. Many neighborhoods show visible signs of decline, creating environments where seniors may not feel comfortable walking or engaging in community activities. These safety issues are particularly important for older adults who may be more vulnerable.
The economic picture shows additional red flags with a weak job market and limited growth opportunities. While retirees may not be seeking employment, these factors affect overall community stability, property values, and local tax bases that fund essential services. The poor school system ratings also indicate broader community investment issues that can impact everything from property values to the availability of community resources.
A tough spot for retirees: Crime and a struggling economy make it less than ideal for retirement. Despite its coastal location and some amenities, the combination of safety concerns and economic challenges creates an environment that may not provide the security and stability most retirees seek.
7. West Warwick, Rhode Island
West Warwick is home to approximately 28,847 people and presents significant safety challenges that should concern retirement-minded individuals. This mid-sized community has struggled with crime issues that directly impact quality of life for all residents, particularly seniors.
Violent crime statistics paint a troubling picture, with rates significantly above state averages and numerous serious incidents reported in recent years. Property crimes also occur at concerning rates, creating an environment where retirees may not feel secure in their homes or while moving about the community. These safety concerns are particularly important for older adults who often prioritize security in retirement planning.
Beyond crime, the town struggles with broader stability issues, including economic challenges and limited community resources specifically designed for seniors. The combination of these factors creates an environment where retirees may find it difficult to establish the peaceful, secure lifestyle they’ve worked hard to achieve.
A tough spot for retirees: Safety issues make it a risky place to settle after retirement. The elevated crime rates and limited senior-focused amenities create challenges for retirees seeking a secure and engaging community for their golden years.
8. Narragansett Pier, Rhode Island
Narragansett Pier is a popular tourist destination with beautiful beaches and coastal charm, but beneath this attractive exterior lie significant challenges for potential retirees. The seasonal nature of this community creates unique problems for year-round residents, especially seniors.
Economic disparities are striking, with a poverty rate of 21.7% existing alongside luxury properties and high-end tourism. This economic divide creates a challenging environment for middle-income retirees who may find themselves priced out of comfortable housing options. The median home value exceeds $500,000, making it one of the most expensive communities in Rhode Island.
The seasonal nature of the local economy means many businesses and services operate primarily during tourist season, potentially leaving year-round residents with limited options during off-peak months. This cyclical pattern can be particularly challenging for retirees who need consistent access to services, healthcare, and community resources throughout the year.
A tough spot for retirees: High poverty and expensive housing make retirement difficult here. The combination of high housing costs, seasonal service limitations, and significant income inequality creates an environment where retirement dollars may not stretch as far as needed for a comfortable lifestyle.
9. Lincoln, Rhode Island
Lincoln’s strategic location between Providence and Boston might seem advantageous, but this positioning brings challenges that directly impact retirement quality. The community’s proximity to major urban centers creates unique pressures for residents, particularly seniors.
Safety concerns are paramount, with high violent crime rates and substantial property crime statistics that exceed state averages. These security issues are particularly important for retirees, who often prioritize safety when choosing a retirement location. The crime statistics indicate an environment where many seniors may not feel comfortable or secure.
The town’s location near major cities also contributes to higher costs of living compared to more rural parts of Rhode Island, without necessarily providing the amenities and services that would justify these increased expenses. This cost-benefit imbalance can strain fixed retirement incomes and reduce overall quality of life for seniors.
A tough spot for retirees: High crime makes Lincoln an uneasy choice for retirees. The combination of safety concerns and elevated living costs creates challenges for seniors seeking a secure and financially sustainable retirement environment.
10. Cranston, Rhode Island
Cranston is a large city with 81,471 residents and faces significant safety challenges that directly impact retirement quality. This substantial community struggles with crime issues that should give retirement-minded individuals serious pause.
The safety statistics are concerning, with Cranston ranking as the 8th most dangerous place in Rhode Island according to crime data. Public perception reflects these statistics, with surveys indicating that only 33% of residents feel safe walking at night. This lack of perceived security can significantly restrict seniors’ activities and overall quality of life.
Beyond crime concerns, Cranston struggles with infrastructure issues and limited senior-focused amenities compared to similarly sized communities. These limitations can affect everything from accessibility to engagement opportunities for retirees seeking an active and fulfilling lifestyle in their golden years.
A tough spot for retirees: A poor safety record and crime concerns make it a bad place to retire. The combination of high crime rates, limited perceived security, and insufficient senior-focused resources creates an environment that may not provide the peace of mind and quality of life that retirees deserve.
11. Warren, Rhode Island
Warren offers historic charm and waterfront appeal, but beneath this attractive exterior lie significant challenges for potential retirees. This coastal community faces issues that directly impact retirement quality and financial security.
Crime statistics reveal concerning patterns, with both violent and property crime rates exceeding state averages. These safety issues are particularly important for retirees, who often prioritize security when choosing a retirement location. The elevated crime rates indicate an environment where many seniors may not feel comfortable or secure.
Economic indicators show additional red flags, with rising unemployment rates and increasing poverty levels that suggest broader community stability issues. These economic challenges can affect everything from property values to local services that seniors rely on, potentially creating a precarious environment for those on fixed retirement incomes.
A tough spot for retirees: Crime and rising poverty make Warren a risky retirement pick. Despite its historic charm and waterfront location, the combination of safety concerns and economic instability creates an environment that may not provide the security and stability most retirees seek.
12. Newport, Rhode Island
Newport is famous for its festivals, beaches, and historic mansions, with a median home price of $737,500 and a livability score of 77. While it offers one of the best accesses to beachfront properties in the state, this tourist hotspot presents unique challenges for year-round residents, especially retirees.
The seasonal tourism economy creates significant fluctuations in population density, traffic, and availability of services. During peak tourist season, simple errands can become complicated by crowded streets, limited parking, and overwhelmed local businesses. These seasonal disruptions can be particularly challenging for retirees who value consistency and ease of access.
Crime statistics show concerning patterns, with both violent and property crimes increasing significantly during tourist season. This seasonal crime pattern creates an unpredictable security environment that may leave retirees feeling vulnerable during certain times of the year. The combination of high housing costs and seasonal disruptions makes Newport a challenging choice for many retirees despite its undeniable charm.
A tough spot for retirees: Heavy tourism and crime rates make Newport tough for retirees. The combination of extremely high housing costs, seasonal disruptions, and fluctuating security concerns creates an environment where retirement may be more stressful than peaceful.
13. Woonsocket, Rhode Island
Woonsocket faces multiple challenges that directly impact retirement quality and financial security. With the lowest livability score on many retirement location lists, this northern Rhode Island city presents significant concerns for seniors considering relocation.
The housing market reveals troubling patterns, with home values around $173,300, significantly below state and national averages. While lower housing costs might initially seem attractive to retirees, these values indicate limited growth potential and possible depreciation risks, potentially threatening one of retirees’ most significant assets.
Economic indicators show additional red flags, with an unemployment rate of 7.9% that exceeds state averages and suggests broader community stability issues. Crime statistics compound these concerns, with rates 50% higher than the state average. This combination of economic challenges and safety concerns creates an environment where retirement security-both financial and physical-may be difficult to achieve.
A tough spot for retirees: Low home values and high crime rates make Woonsocket unattractive for retirement. The combination of economic struggles, limited property appreciation potential, and significant safety concerns creates an environment that may not provide the security and stability most retirees seek.
14. Pascoag, Rhode Island
Pascoag has approximately 4,594 residents and faces challenges related to limited amenities and economic opportunities. This small community struggles to provide the resources and engagement opportunities that many retirees seek in their golden years.
Crime concerns exist despite the town’s small size, with both violent and property crime rates exceeding what would be expected for a community of this population. These safety issues are particularly important for retirees, who often prioritize security when choosing a retirement location. The crime statistics indicate an environment where many seniors may not feel entirely comfortable.
Economic indicators show concerning patterns, with almost nonexistent job growth and limited economic development. While retirees may not be seeking employment, these factors affect overall community stability, property values, and local tax bases that fund essential services. The median home value of $221,700 and struggling school system reflect broader community investment issues that can impact everything from property values to the availability of community resources.
A tough spot for retirees: Lack of amenities and poor job growth hurt retirement living here. The combination of limited resources, safety concerns, and economic stagnation creates an environment that may not provide the engaging and secure lifestyle that most retirees seek.
15. North Smithfield, Rhode Island
North Smithfield presents a peaceful appearance that masks significant challenges for potential retirees. This community’s rural character comes with limitations that directly impact retirement quality and lifestyle options.
Safety statistics reveal concerning patterns, with North Smithfield ranking among the 10 most dangerous cities in the state despite its small size and rural character. These security issues are particularly important for retirees, who often prioritize safety when choosing a retirement location. The elevated crime rates indicate an environment where many seniors may not feel as secure as the bucolic setting might suggest.
Beyond safety concerns, the community struggles with limited amenities and services compared to more developed areas of Rhode Island. The scarcity of dining options, cultural activities, and senior-focused resources can lead to isolation and reduced quality of life for retirees seeking an engaging and fulfilling lifestyle in their golden years.
A tough spot for retirees: Safety issues and few job options make it a bad retirement spot. The combination of surprising crime statistics, limited amenities, and few employment opportunities creates an environment that may not provide the security and engagement that most retirees seek.
16. Harmony, Rhode Island
Harmony’s name suggests tranquility, but the reality for retirees may be quite different in this small Rhode Island community. Despite its peaceful-sounding name, this area faces challenges that directly impact retirement quality and community stability.
Transportation issues are significant, with long commute times that can isolate seniors and make access to healthcare, shopping, and services more difficult. These accessibility challenges can be particularly problematic for older adults who may eventually need to limit or stop driving, potentially leading to increased isolation.
Economic indicators show troubling patterns, with a high unemployment rate of 7.6% that exceeds state averages and suggests broader community stability issues. Perhaps most concerning is that one in five homes stands vacant, indicating population decline and potential community disinvestment. This hollowing-out effect can lead to reduced services, limited social opportunities, and declining property values-all significant concerns for retirees.
A tough spot for retirees: Slow job growth and a hollowed-out community are bad signs for retirees. The combination of accessibility challenges, economic struggles, and community decline creates an environment that may become increasingly difficult for retirees to navigate as they age.
17. East Providence, Rhode Island
East Providence is often overlooked in discussions of Rhode Island communities, but retirees should take a closer look at its challenges before considering it for their golden years. This city of approximately 47,000 residents presents financial and safety concerns that directly impact retirement quality.
Cost of living metrics reveal that East Providence has higher expenses than many nearby communities, creating potential strain for retirees on fixed incomes. These elevated costs affect everything from daily necessities to housing expenses, potentially reducing overall quality of life for budget-conscious seniors.
Safety statistics show concerning patterns, with crime rates above average for both violent and property crimes compared to state figures. Adding to the financial pressure, property taxes exceed those of many surrounding communities, creating an ongoing financial burden that can erode retirement savings over time. This combination of higher costs and safety concerns makes East Providence a challenging choice for many retirees.
A tough spot for retirees: Higher costs and safety concerns make this city less retiree-friendly. The combination of elevated living expenses, above-average crime rates, and high property taxes creates an environment where retirement dollars may not stretch as far as needed for a comfortable and secure lifestyle.
18. Pawtucket, Rhode Island
Pawtucket has approximately 71,844 residents and faces multiple challenges that directly impact retirement quality and community stability. This city’s economic struggles create ripple effects that touch many aspects of daily life for seniors.
The economic picture shows significant concerns, with an unemployment rate of 7.1% that exceeds state averages and suggests broader community stability issues. These economic challenges affect everything from property values to local services that seniors rely on, potentially creating a precarious environment for those on fixed retirement incomes.
Beyond economics, Pawtucket struggles with limited amenities compared to similarly sized communities, with fewer cultural, recreational, and senior-focused resources. Safety concerns compound these issues, with rising crime rates that exceed state averages. The poorly funded school system reflects broader community investment challenges that can impact everything from property values to the overall quality of community services.
A tough spot for retirees: Poor schools, high crime, and bad weather make it hard for retirees to enjoy life here. The combination of economic challenges, limited amenities, and safety concerns creates an environment that may not provide the engaging and secure lifestyle that most retirees seek.
19. Valley Falls, Rhode Island
Valley Falls presents a mixed picture for potential retirees, with some moderate scores in certain areas but significant limitations that impact retirement quality. This small community lacks the vibrancy and engagement opportunities that many seniors seek in their golden years.
Housing metrics reveal concerning patterns, with a median home value of $239,000 that falls below state averages and suggests limited appreciation potential. Income levels also lag behind state figures, indicating broader economic challenges that can affect community resources and services that seniors rely on.
Perhaps most concerning for retirement-minded individuals is the limited range of activities and attractions available within the community. The scarcity of cultural events, recreational opportunities, and senior-focused programming can lead to isolation and reduced quality of life for retirees seeking an engaging and fulfilling lifestyle in their golden years.
A tough spot for retirees: Low income and few activities make Valley Falls a dull retirement spot. The combination of limited economic opportunities, modest property values, and few engagement options creates an environment that may not provide the stimulating and fulfilling lifestyle that most retirees seek.
20. Tiverton, Rhode Island
Tiverton has a small population of 7,804 people and presents a mixed picture for potential retirees. While it offers some rural charm, this community faces challenges that directly impact retirement quality and financial security.
Economic indicators show concerning patterns, with an unemployment rate of 6.4% that exceeds state averages and suggests broader community stability issues. Home values fall below those of many surrounding communities, indicating limited appreciation potential that could affect retirees’ long-term financial security.
Safety concerns exist despite the town’s small size, with crime rates that, while not as severe as in larger cities, still exceed what would be expected for a community of this population. These security issues are particularly important for retirees, who often prioritize safety when choosing a retirement location. The combination of economic challenges and safety concerns creates an environment where retirement security-both financial and physical-may be more difficult to achieve than in other Rhode Island communities.
A tough spot for retirees: High unemployment and crime concerns keep Tiverton off the retirement dream list. The combination of economic challenges, limited property appreciation potential, and safety concerns creates an environment that may not provide the security and stability most retirees seek in their golden years.