Living a Boating Lifestyle in Newport, Rhode_Island

Newport, Rhode Island (population 26,000) has to be one of the most fabled boating community in the world. Home to the America's Cup race for decades, Newport has the ocean and harbor on 3 sides. Here some of the greatest ocean racing ever was played out to the delight of sailors world wide. Its enormous harbor,rivers, and offshore waters give ready access to boating and fishing of all types. Plus it has a vibrant, large and interesting downtown, and has one of the largest concentrations of beautiful and historic homes in the country.
In colonial days Newport was the most important port in Rhode Island. It has a magnificent stock of colonial homes – in fact walking down the streets of Newport is probably the closest one can come to seeing what colonial American looked like. During the 19th century it became famous among the richest Americans as the place to live in the summer. Soon the Vanderbilts and most of the nation’s wealthiest families were in a mad rush to see who could build the most extraordinary "cottage" (mansion). Several hundred years and many booms and busts later, the town is an exceptional destination for tourists and active adults.  But beyond the mansions open to the public, everywhere in town there are wonderful old homes that have either been restored, or are waiting for a handyman with deep pockets. Salve Regina University’s campus in Newport incorporate many former mansions of American’s wealthiest families. The town is walk-able and features many parks and squares. Photo of Marble House courtesy of Wikipedia and Daderot. Photo of the Breakers courtesy of Wikipedia and Daderot. UpstateNYer.

Where to Retire in Newport and Home Prices

Active adults 55+ can choose to live in a restored home or in apartments.  There are many different neighborhoods – the most posh is on the Cliff Walk along the bay. There is at least one new luxury condominium development in the area. One of the most interesting developments is Harbor House, an independent (and non-profit) living facility with 38 apartments in five historic buildings. According to Zillow, the median home value was $727,869, in early 2022.

What Is Special about Newport

Newport has a lively downtown with broad streets and excellent shopping. There is a concentration of beautiful mansions and historic buildings.The downtown is vital and attractice with many different neighborhoods.

Newport is also home to Salve Regina University, Newport Folk Festival, and the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

What Is Not Special about Newport

There is traffic in season can be intense. Newport is not inexpensive. You have to want to live in a tourist town.

Climate and Physical Environment

Newport is the largest city on Aquidneck Island in Narragansett Bay. The superb harbor and surrounding ocean was for many years the home of the America's Cup (ocean sailing) races.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Newport has several important festivals including the Newport Folk Festival, the Newport Jazz Festival and the Newport Film Festival. There are a number of museums and the largest number of colonial homes in the nation. The Redwood Library and Athenaeum is the nation's oldest lending library. As a tourist destination the restaurant selection is tremendous.

Crime

The crime rate in Newport is slightly above the national average.

Medical Facilities

Newport Hospital

Transportation

Green Airport is 18 miles away in Providence;  Amtrak has a station 18 miles away in Kingston.

Valuable Links

Discover Newport

City of Newport

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