When people think of East Providence, they often picture its close proximity to downtown Providence, but the true essence of living in East Providence extends beyond the city itself. The suburbs of East Providence are diverse residential areas that offer a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle while still providing easy access to Providence’s vibrant amenities. These suburbs, spread across various parts of the East Providence area, each offer their own unique character and appeal.In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore some of the most notable East Providence suburbs—from waterfront communities to rural retreats—highlighting key aspects such as population, average rent, and what makes each area stand out. Whether you’re searching for the perfect apartment in East Providence or curious about the different East Providence neighborhoods, let’s discover the best parts of East Providence to call home.Cost of living in East ProvidenceBefore we dive into the top East Providence suburbs, let’s cover how much it costs to live in the area. The overall cost of living in East Providence is around 12% higher than the national average, though still lower than many other cities in the Northeast. Housing plays a significant role, with the median sale price for a home in East Providence at approximately $430,000, which is slightly below the national average of $432,657. Rent is slightly higher, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in East Providence around $2,010, compared to the national average of $1,514.While some suburbs around East Providence offer more affordable options, others can be more expensive depending on proximity to the water and other amenities. In this article, we’ll explore a range of suburbs, providing different lifestyle and housing opportunities based on your budget and preferences.1. RumfordKnown for: Historic charm, golf courses, and suburban convenienceRumford is a historic neighborhood located in the northern part of East Providence. Known for its charming older homes and quiet streets, Rumford offers a peaceful suburban lifestyle with easy access to both Providence and the surrounding suburbs. The area is home to Wannamoisett Country Club, one of the premier golf courses in Rhode Island, adding to the upscale feel of the neighborhood. Rumford’s housing market consists of historic homes, many of which date back to the early 20th century, as well as more modern properties.In addition to its residential appeal, Rumford is known for its proximity to local parks and walking trails, including the Ten Mile River Greenway, which offers scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities.Population: 8,000Median home sale price: $504,000Rumford transportation scores: Walk Score 67, Bike Score 46, Transit Score 27Apartments for rent in Rumford, RI | Houses for rent in Rumford, RI | Homes for sale in Rumford, RI2. RiversideKnown for: Waterfront views, scenic parks, and small-town charmRiverside, located along the eastern banks of the Providence River, is a picturesque suburb offering waterfront living and a strong sense of community. The neighborhood is known for its tranquil environment, with many homes offering views of the water and easy access to coastal parks like Sabin Point Park and Rose Larisa Memorial Park. Riverside’s mix of older colonial homes and newer developments gives residents a variety of housing options, making it a popular choice for those seeking a peaceful setting close to the water.In addition to its natural beauty, Riverside offers convenient access to shopping centers, restaurants, and local schools, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a suburban lifestyle with waterfront appeal.Population: 18,000Median home sale price: $445,000Riverside transportation scores: Walk Score 50, Bike Score 42, Transit Score 25Apartments for rent in Riverside, RI | Houses for rent in Riverside, RI | Homes for sale in Riverside, RI3. Seekonk, MAKnown for: Affordability, shopping, and suburban amenitiesJust across the state line in Massachusetts, Seekonk is a popular suburb for those looking to live near East Providence while enjoying a lower cost of living. Known for its convenient access to major shopping centers and chain restaurants, Seekonk offers residents the best of suburban amenities. The town is well-developed with a mix of commercial and residential areas, making it a practical option for those who prioritize convenience and affordability.Seekonk’s housing market includes a mix of older homes, new developments, and townhouses, offering something for every type of buyer. Its close proximity to East Providence and Providence makes it an appealing location for commuters who work in the city but prefer a quieter, more suburban setting.Population: 15,000Median home sale price: $620,075Seekonk transportation scores: Walk Score 41, Bike Score 35Apartments for rent in Seekonk, MA | Houses for rent in Seekonk, MA | Homes for sale in Seekonk, MA4. BarringtonKnown for: Top-rated schools, coastal living, and suburban eleganceBarrington is one of the most desirable suburbs near East Providence, known for its top-rated schools, coastal charm, and beautiful neighborhoods. Located along Narragansett Bay, Barrington offers a mix of waterfront properties and upscale homes, providing residents with a high standard of living. The town has a quiet, suburban feel, with a strong sense of community and numerous local events throughout the year.Barrington’s housing market is diverse, ranging from historic coastal homes to newer developments. The town is home to several parks, marinas, and beaches, making it ideal for those who love outdoor activities and coastal living.Population: 16,000Median home sale price: $800,000Barrington transportation scores: Walk Score 67, Bike Score 72Apartments for rent in Barrington, RI | Houses for rent in Barrington, RI | Homes for sale in Barrington, RI5. Rehoboth, MAKnown for: Rural charm, open spaces, and equestrian lifestyleRehoboth, located just over the Massachusetts border, offers a rural, country lifestyle while still being close to East Providence and Providence. The town is known for its wide-open spaces, farms, and equestrian facilities, making it an ideal location for those who prefer a quieter, more rural setting. Rehoboth is also home to several golf courses and conservation areas, offering residents plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities.The housing market in Rehoboth consists mainly of single-family homes on large lots, often with plenty of privacy. It’s a popular choice for those looking for more space without straying too far from the amenities of the city.Population: 12,000Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,400Median home sale price: $725,000Rehoboth transportation scores: Walk Score 7, Bike Score 32Apartments for rent in Rehoboth, MA | Houses for rent in Rehoboth, MA | Homes for sale in Rehoboth, MA6. WarrenKnown for: Historic waterfront, arts scene, and small-town feelWarren, a quaint coastal town located just south of Barrington, is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic waterfront, and tight-knit community. The town’s historic downtown area is filled with art galleries, local shops, and restaurants, making it a hub for culture and creativity. Warren’s waterfront, which features marinas and scenic views, adds to the town’s charm and makes it a desirable location for those seeking a laid-back lifestyle near the water.The housing market in Warren includes a mix of historic homes, coastal properties, and more affordable suburban options. The town’s walkable downtown and close proximity to Providence make it a popular choice for residents who want a small-town atmosphere with easy access to the city.Population: 10,000Median home sale price: $550,000Warren transportation scores: Walk Score 80, Bike Score 81Apartments for rent in Warren, RI | Houses for rent in Warren, RI | Homes for sale in Warren, RIMethodology: The suburbs included in this list were selected based on their overall popularity, determined by search trends and housing demand in the East Providence area. Average rent and home sale price data were sourced from Redfin and Rent.com as of October 2024. Transportation data, including Walk Scores, Bike Scores, and Transit Scores, was sourced from Walk Score.