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Washington County, Rhode Island — County Report Card

RI

#2 in Rhode Island

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
55.9
County Score
Health 97.5Income & Jobs 96Safety 73.3

County Report Card

About Washington County, Rhode Island

High Quality of Life Outpaces the Nation

Washington County earns a strong 55.9 composite score, well above the national median of 50.0. This indicates a very high level of livability compared to the majority of counties in the United States.

A Leading Contender in the State

Ranking comfortably above the state average of 50.1, Washington is a top-tier Rhode Island county. It offers a compelling balance of safety, high earnings, and community health.

Superior Health and Community Safety

The county excels with a 97.5 health score and a safety score of 73.3, which is much higher than the state's urban core. An income score of 96.0 reflects a prosperous population with median earnings of $102,478.

Water Infrastructure and Affordability Concerns

Washington County faces a lower water score of 35.2, indicating room for utility improvement. Housing affordability is also a challenge, with a cost score of 7.8 and home values near $470,000.

The Gold Standard for Secure Families

Washington County is perfect for established families and professionals who seek a safe, high-earning coastal region. It offers a balanced, high-quality lifestyle for those who prioritize health and security.

Score breakdown

Tax34.1Cost7.8Safety73.3Health97.5Schools71.2Income96Risk36Water35.2Weather65.1
🏛34.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠7.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼96
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡73.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤97.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓71.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡36
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧35.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤65.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱65.6
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

Newport County
Rhode Island
52.2
Kent County
Rhode Island
47.2
Southeastern Connecticut Planning Region
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Bristol County
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Providence County
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Bristol County
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Deep Dives

Washington County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Washington County

via TaxByCounty

Washington County taxes rank slightly above national median

Washington County's effective tax rate of 1.054% is 25% higher than the national median of 0.84%, placing it in the upper-middle tier of U.S. counties. The median property tax of $4,954 nearly doubles the national median of $2,690, driven by a median home value of $469,800.

Second-lowest tax burden in Rhode Island

Washington County's effective tax rate of 1.054% is the second-lowest in Rhode Island, trailing only Newport County's 0.955% and well below the state average of 1.248%. This favorable rate reflects the county's mix of middle and upper-middle-class residential areas.

Washington has the second-best tax rate regionally

Only Newport County's 0.955% effective rate beats Washington's 1.054%, while Providence, Bristol, and Kent all exceed Washington's rate. Despite a median home value nearly identical to Bristol's ($469,800 vs. $468,000), Washington residents pay $1,529 less annually in property taxes.

Washington residents pay $4,954 on median home

Washington County's effective tax rate of 1.054% applied to the median home value of $469,800 yields an estimated annual property tax of $4,954. Mortgage holders average $4,857 in taxes annually, while outright owners typically pay around $5,182.

Verify your assessment and appeal if needed

Washington County's relatively favorable tax rate doesn't eliminate the risk of overassessment—many homeowners overpay due to outdated or inaccurate valuations. Comparing your assessed value to recent comparable sales and filing an appeal if warranted can reduce your annual property tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Washington County

via CostByCounty

Washington rents fit most budgets easily

Washington County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.3% sits comfortably below national benchmarks, allowing renters to manage housing costs without financial strain. The county's median household income of $102,478 ranks among the state's strongest, providing residents substantial income stability.

Third-most affordable in Rhode Island

Washington County ranks third statewide for affordability with a rent-to-income ratio of 15.3%, trailing only Bristol and Kent counties. At 1.7 points below the state average, Washington delivers better housing economics than Newport or Providence counties.

Premium location, reasonable costs

Washington's median rent of $1,303 and median household income of $102,478 position it between Bristol and Newport, offering a middle path. The median home value of $469,800 aligns closely with Bristol's $468,000, suggesting comparable coastal-area pricing.

Washington's balanced housing equation

Renters spend $1,303 monthly while homeowners pay $1,837, together consuming approximately 25% of household income—the state's best ratio after Bristol. The median home value of $469,800 reflects a robust housing market for a county with strong local wages.

Washington offers solid value proposition

Washington County combines strong incomes with manageable rents, making it attractive for anyone seeking affordable living without sacrificing earning potential. With a 15.3% rent-to-income ratio, you'll keep more of your paycheck than in four other state counties.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Washington County

via IncomeByCounty

Washington County earns 37% above US average

Washington County's median household income of $102,478 substantially outpaces the national median of $74,755, placing residents $27,723 ahead of the typical American household. This significant income advantage reflects a prosperous, upper-middle-class community.

Third-highest earners in Rhode Island

Washington County ranks third among Rhode Island's five counties, earning $5,729 more than the state median of $96,749. Per capita income of $53,226 exceeds the state average by $647, indicating solid individual earnings paired with strong household wealth.

Washington competes with affluent counties

Washington County ($102,478) ranks between Newport ($100,859) and Bristol ($110,926), forming Rhode Island's triumvirate of highest-earning counties. Like Bristol, Washington maintains a household-friendly 15.3% rent-to-income ratio, the second-best in the state after Bristol's 14.6%.

Incomes support comfortable housing

Washington's 15.3% rent-to-income ratio—the second-lowest statewide—provides excellent housing affordability cushion, allocating roughly one-seventh of earnings to rent. Median home values of $469,800 align well with household incomes, enabling stable homeownership for most residents.

Invest surplus income for future security

Washington's strong incomes and favorable housing ratios create exceptional opportunity to save and invest beyond basic needs. Consider maxing out retirement contributions and diversifying into stocks, bonds, or real estate to accelerate long-term wealth growth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Washington County

via CrimeByCounty

Washington County is Among the Safest

Washington County earns a near-perfect safety score of 99.0, indicating one of the most secure environments in America. Its total crime rate of 634.6 per 100K is roughly one-quarter of the national average.

Rhode Island's Runner-Up for Safety

Ranking second in the state, Washington County exceeds the Rhode Island average safety score of 98.3. Nine reporting agencies work together to maintain a crime rate that is significantly lower than the state average.

Leading the South County Region

Washington County is safer than Kent and Newport counties, trailing only Bristol in the statewide rankings. Its rate of 634.6 per 100K highlights a very peaceful environment compared to the state's urban centers.

Minimal Violent Crime Presence

The county reports one of the lowest violent crime rates in the country at just 75.4 per 100K. Property crimes are also low at 559.2 per 100K, suggesting very few security concerns for most residents.

Protecting Your Peaceful Community

Simple precautions like locking vehicles and securing garages help maintain this county's high safety levels. A connected community and basic deterrents ensure Washington County remains a leader in public safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Washington County

via HealthByCounty

Washington performs well on national metrics

Washington County residents live to 80.3 years, outpacing the U.S. average of 76.4 years by nearly four years and approaching Rhode Island's 79.9-year state average. Just 11.4% report poor or fair health, the second-best rate in Rhode Island and well below the national average of 13.5%.

Rhode Island's second-healthiest county

Washington County's 80.3-year life expectancy ranks second-best in Rhode Island, just 0.4 years below state average. With a 3.7% uninsured rate, Washington is well below the state average of 4.2%, ensuring most residents can access preventive and routine care.

Competes with Bristol for top health metrics

Washington's 80.3-year life expectancy closely rivals Bristol's 80.7 years, positioning both as Rhode Island's healthiest counties. Like Bristol, Washington's low uninsured rate (3.7%) and abundant mental health providers (381 per 100,000) support strong overall health outcomes.

Good coverage, adequate primary care access

Washington's 3.7% uninsured rate means the vast majority of residents have coverage for preventive services, early diagnosis, and chronic disease management. With 82 primary care providers and 381 mental health providers per 100,000, the county supports both physical and behavioral health.

Stay covered to maintain these strong outcomes

Washington residents enjoy some of Rhode Island's best health outcomes—don't lose that progress. Visit HealthCare.gov today to confirm your coverage and explore options that keep you protected.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Washington County

via SchoolsByCounty

High-Performing Schools in a Coastal Setting

Washington County operates 37 public schools across nine districts, providing education for 14,102 students. The infrastructure includes 20 elementary schools, seven middle schools, and six high schools. The system is well-distributed, balancing traditional district schools with specialized alternative and charter options.

Exceeding State and National Benchmarks

Washington County leads the region with a 64.2 composite school score and an 89.8% graduation rate, nearly three points above the national average. The county invests $12,004 per pupil, surpassing the state average of $11,264. These metrics reflect a community that prioritizes educational funding and successfully translates it into student achievement.

North Kingstown and Chariho Take Center Stage

North Kingstown is the largest district, serving 3,798 students, followed closely by the Chariho regional district with 3,082 students. Charter schools represent 5.4% of the landscape, providing targeted alternatives to the traditional district model. These districts are frequently recognized for their academic rigor and consistent performance.

Rural Charm and Suburban Scale

The county features a blend of 23 suburban and 14 rural schools, offering a peaceful learning environment with an average size of 392 students. North Kingstown Senior High is the largest facility with 1,374 students, while many other schools remain small and community-oriented. This locale mix creates a 'neighborhood' feel where schools are integrated into the natural landscape.

Invest in Quality Education and Coastal Living

With some of the highest school scores in Rhode Island, Washington County is a premier choice for families. Moving to North Kingstown or South Kingstown places you in a system where graduation rates and per-pupil spending consistently beat state averages. Start your home search here to secure a top-tier education in a beautiful rural-suburban setting.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Washington County

via RiskByCounty

Washington: Moderate Risk, Coastal Focus

Washington County's composite risk score of 64.03 ranks as Relatively Low nationally but reflects concentrated coastal and waterway vulnerabilities. Hurricane (82.23), flood (76.20), and earthquake (67.27) risks all exceed typical U.S. levels.

Mid-Range Risk Across Rhode Island

Washington County scores 64.03, placing it fourth among Rhode Island's five counties—7.44 points above the state average of 56.59. Only Providence County (93.67) and Kent County (69.43) exceed Washington's overall risk exposure.

Safer Than Kent and Providence, Riskier Than Coastal Counties

Washington (64.03) ranks higher than Bristol (19.40) and Newport (36.42) but below Kent (69.43) and Providence (93.67). Its south-county geography and mixed coastal-inland composition place it in the state's moderate-risk band.

Hurricane and Flood Are Washington's Main Hazards

Hurricane risk (82.23) and flood risk (76.20) dominate Washington's profile, reflecting coastal Atlantic exposure in southern towns. Tornado (29.39) and earthquake (67.27) present secondary concerns, while wildfire risk (23.06) remains manageable.

Secure Flood and Wind Coverage Now

Washington's 82.23 hurricane rating and 76.20 flood rating require separate flood insurance and comprehensive wind damage coverage—don't rely on standard homeowner policies alone. Coastal properties should also confirm earthquake riders given the county's 67.27 earthquake risk.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Washington County

via WeatherByCounty

A temperate pocket of the Northeast

Washington County averages 50.7°F annually, sitting roughly three degrees below the national median. This coastal region balances continental air masses with the tempering effects of the Atlantic.

Slightly cooler than the state average

The county’s 50.7°F average is just below the Rhode Island state average of 51.2°F. Its precipitation levels of 49.7 inches align closely with the statewide norm of 49.1 inches.

Cooler and wetter than Newport

Washington County is wetter than neighbor Newport, receiving 49.7 inches of rain compared to Newport's 46.3. It also stays cooler on average, though it shares similar coastal weather patterns.

The state's fewest extreme heat days

The county records only 4 days per year over 90°F, the lowest count in Rhode Island. Winters are moderate with 34.5 inches of snowfall and an average winter temperature of 32.2°F.

Prepare for rain and moderate winters

Quality rain gear is essential for the nearly 50 inches of annual precipitation. Because extreme heat is rare, residents can often rely on natural ventilation rather than heavy air conditioning during the 69.4°F summers.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Washington County

via SoilByCounty

Washington County Soil Basics

Taxonomic order and pH data for Washington County are currently unrecorded in official inventories. Knowing your specific pH is key to comparing your land against the national median of 6.5.

The Mix of Sand and Silt

The county lacks data on its specific percentages of sand, silt, and clay. This mix determines how well your soil drains and how often you need to fertilize, so observation is your best tool.

Nurturing Soil Life

Records for organic matter and available water capacity are unavailable at this time. Aiming for the national 2.0% organic matter benchmark is a reliable way to ensure your soil remains productive and fertile.

Mapping Water Drainage

The county's drainage classes and hydrologic groups have not been officially quantified in recent reports. Because drainage impacts both farming and home foundations, watching how water settles is highly recommended.

Planting Roots in Zone 6b

Washington County belongs to Hardiness Zone 6b, making it ideal for a diverse range of New England flora. With its distinct seasons, now is the perfect time to prep your soil and start growing.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Washington County

via LawnByCounty

Rhode Island's Toughest Turf Test

Washington County presents the most challenging conditions in the state with a lawn difficulty score of 65.6. While this is lower than the Rhode Island average, it remains more hospitable than the national median of 50.0. Growing a great lawn in this Zone 6b region requires more attention to detail and consistent care.

Cooler Days and High Moisture

Washington County is remarkably cool, with only 4 extreme heat days per year compared to the state average of 8. It receives 49.7 inches of annual precipitation and records 2,695 growing degree days. The lower heat levels reduce the risk of lawn scorch but also mean a slightly slower growth rate for some grass varieties.

Building a Better Soil Base

Current data for soil pH and texture is unavailable for Washington County, so personalized testing is the only way to ensure success. Maintaining a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is critical for nutrient absorption, especially in areas with varying drainage. Adding a layer of compost can help stabilize the soil foundation if specific metrics are unknown.

Managing Frequent Drought Stress

Washington County struggled through 20 weeks of drought in the past year, the highest frequency in the state. Currently, 100.0% of the area is abnormally dry, though no severe drought is presently recorded. Homeowners should prioritize water-saving techniques like raising mower blades to keep the soil shaded and moist.

Shorter Window for Seeding

The growing window is tighter here, with the last frost appearing around May 1 and the first frost returning by October 15. This leaves you with a five-and-a-half-month season to establish and maintain your turf. Focus on drought-tolerant cool-season grasses to handle the county's tendency toward dry spells.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Washington County's county score?
Washington County, Rhode Island has a composite county score of 55.9 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Washington County rank among counties in Rhode Island?
Washington County ranks #2 among all counties in Rhode Island on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Washington County, Rhode Island?
The median annual property tax in Washington County is $4,954, with an effective tax rate of 1.05%. This earns Washington County a tax score of 34.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Washington County?
The median household income in Washington County, Rhode Island is $102,478 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Washington County earns an income score of 96/100 on CountyScore.
Is Washington County, Rhode Island a good place to live?
Washington County scores 55.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #2 in Rhode Island. The best way to evaluate Washington County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Washington County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.