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Newport, Rhode Island

What It Is Like to Retire in Newport

If you would like to retire in a community that has the ocean and harbor on 3 sides, a vibrant, large and interesting downtown, and has one of the largest concentrations of beautiful and historic homes in the country, Newport, Rhode Island (population 26,000) is for you. 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. Thanks to Doris Duke and the Newport Restoration Foundation which she created, you can tour many of these mansions. 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.

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 $776,927, in mid-2023.

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

Who Will Like Retirement in Newport

Newport attracts a community of those who want to retire and live in a vital tourist town with an ever-present sense of history. Boating is tremendous from this beautiful harbor that gives easy access to Martha's Vineyard, Long Island, and Maine. The Americas Cup Sailboat Races were held here for decades. There are many excellent golf courses and nearby beaches are spectacular.

Local Economy Is Driven by

Tourism and major navy installations are the key to the economy

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.