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Navigate apartment hunting and city life like a local with our curated articles about Providence, Rhode Island.
National study of renter’s satisfaction with their cities and states
Apartment List has released Providence’s results from the third annual Apartment List Renter Satisfaction Survey. This survey, which drew on responses from over 45,000 renters nationwide, provides insight on what states and cities must do to meet the needs of the country’s 111 million renters.
"Providence renters expressed general dissatisfaction with the city overall," according to Apartment List. "Interestingly, ratings for Providence vary widely across categories such as affordability and career opportunities."
Key Findings in Providence include the following:
For more information on the survey methodology and findings or to speak to one of our researchers, please contact our team at rentonomics@apartmentlist.com.
*Based on base prices that don’t include fees
Known as Providence's "Little Italy," Federal Hill delivers authentic Italian markets, bakeries, and restaurants along Atwells Avenue. Apartments here typically offer more space for your money than downtown, with many featuring character details in converted triple-deckers. The vibrant restaurant scene creates weekend activity, which means occasional evening noise and parking challenges. Best suited for renters who appreciate culinary culture, want city accessibility without downtown prices, and don't mind street parking being part of daily life.
Ivy League energy permeates this Brown University-adjacent enclave along Hope Street's indie bookshops. Renters score Victorian carriage houses converted to studios but face 2AM noise from Thayer Street's pizza shops during finals week.
Perched above downtown, College Hill blends historic charm with university energy thanks to Brown and RISD. Renters enjoy walkable access to quirky shops, coffee houses, and excellent restaurants along Thayer Street. While rental prices run higher than other Providence neighborhoods and parking can be challenging, the combination of beautiful architecture, intellectual atmosphere, and excellent public transportation makes this a top choice for academics, young professionals, and anyone who values culture over square footage.