East Providence Relocation Deep Dive: 2026 Data Report

East Providence: The Data Profile (2026)

East Providence presents a specific demographic profile for the 2026 post-remote landscape. With a population of 46,970, it functions as a dense suburban satellite to Providence. The economic baseline is slightly above the national median, with a median household income of $79,660—a +6.8% premium over the US average of $74,580. However, educational attainment lags slightly, with 32.3% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.1%.

The statistical target demographic is the "Hybrid Anchor"—households earning between $80,000 and $110,000 who prioritize proximity to a major metro hub (Providence/Boston corridor) while accepting a trade-off in utility and healthcare costs. This is not a tech-boom city; it is a stable, service-and-logistics economy.

Cost of Living Analysis

While general goods are slightly cheaper, the cost structure is heavily distorted by energy and consumption costs. The 147.9 index for restaurants and healthcare indicates a significant premium. The most critical data point for budgeting is electricity, which sits at 28.65 cents/kWh—nearly 79% higher than the US average of 16.0 cents/kWh. This creates a structural drag on disposable income for larger households.

Disposable Income Analysis:
Based on the median income of $79,660 (approx. $6,638 monthly gross), a single earner faces a disposable income squeeze. After taxes and the estimated $3,270 monthly cost of living, savings capacity is limited to approximately $1,500 per month, assuming no heavy debt service. For a family of four, this model requires dual incomes or significantly above-median earnings to maintain liquidity.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market in East Providence is currently hovering near the national average, with a slight buyer's edge in pricing. However, the rent-to-price ratio suggests that renting is a financially conservative move relative to the instability of the local economy. The Housing Index of 98.9 indicates that property is 1.1% cheaper than the US baseline.

Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
With a median home price of $385,000 and 1BR rent at $1,450, the price-to-rent ratio is roughly 22. This sits on the borderline where buying becomes favorable. However, given the high electricity costs (28.65 cents/kWh) and older housing stock common in the region, the hidden maintenance and utility costs favor renting for those with a horizon of fewer than 7 years.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

The post-remote work era has stabilized the commute, but East Providence remains a "bedroom community." The unemployment rate sits at 4.3%, slightly above the national average of 4.0%. This 0.3% gap suggests a local job market that is less dynamic than the broader US economy, relying heavily on healthcare and logistics.

RTO & Commute:
Proximity to Providence allows for a commute under 25 minutes to downtown Providence. For hybrid workers targeting Boston (60-75 minutes), the Amtrak connection from Providence is a viable, albeit expensive, option. The local economy has not seen a boom in high-paying remote HQs; rather, it has absorbed the overflow from Providence.

Quality of Life Audit

Health metrics are a major concern. The aggregate Health Score is 80.1/100, but this masks high rates of obesity (32.4%) and diabetes (11.7%), both exceeding national averages. Air quality is generally good, though New England winters can trap particulate matter. Unemployment is stable but higher than average.

Safety & Schools:

• Crime: East Providence maintains a violent crime rate of 198 per 100k (slightly above the US average of 166) and a property crime rate of 2,150 per 100k. It is safer than major metros but riskier than rural suburbs.
• Air Quality: The AQI of 45 and PM2.5 of 7.1 are excellent, ranking in the top 25% of US cities for respiratory health.
• Weather: The current snapshot of 52.0°F with highs of 50°F and lows of 40°F reflects the standard New England spring volatility. Expect 120+ days/year with temps below 50°F.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Housing Value: Home prices are 8.3% below the national median.
• Rental Affordability: Rent is significantly cheaper than the US average (-12.1% for 1BR).
• Air Quality: Superior environmental metrics (AQI 45).

Cons:

• Utility Costs: Electricity at 28.65 cents/kWh is a severe financial burden.
• Health Profile: High obesity (32.4%) and diabetes rates suggest a challenging environment for wellness.
• Economic Stagnation: Unemployment (4.3%) is higher than average, limiting local job mobility.

Final Recommendation:
East Providence is a Buy for families earning over $100,000 who value housing space over utility costs. It is a Rent for singles or lower-income households who need access to the Providence/Boston corridor without the capital outlay of a down payment. Avoid if you have high medical needs (healthcare index 147.9) or require a booming local tech job market.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed for a comfortable life in East Providence?
For a single person, a salary of $75,000 is the baseline for comfort, covering the $3,270 monthly expenses with savings. For a family, a dual-income household totaling $120,000 is recommended to offset the high healthcare and housing costs.

2. How does the value compare to nearby cities?
East Providence offers 8.3% cheaper housing than the US average, but it is more expensive than Providence proper. You pay a premium for the "East Side" zip code and river views.

3. Is East Providence safe?
It is moderately safe. The violent crime rate is 198 per 100k, which is 19% higher than the national average. Property crime is the primary concern, driven by suburban burglary rates.

4. When is the best time to move?
Due to the climate, move between May and September. Winters are harsh, and moving during the 50°F highs of late spring ensures easier logistics and lower risk of weather delays.