#13 Hopkinton: RI's Best Communities 2013

#13 Hopkinton: RI's Best Communities 2013

The previous hub of Rhode Island life when it was a stagecoach center, this quiet, old-fashioned town shows off numerous fresh water fishing areas, campgrounds, and parks–attractions that make it a desirable vacation spot for locals and tourists alike. And along with these pleasant activities, Hopkinton has excellent public schools. It’s mostly a rural town but the community still shows a great pride in its history.

Hopkinton by the numbers

Established: 1669
Population: 8,188
Median household income: $64,917
Median housing price: $220,000

2013 Best Communities rankings

Overall ranking: 13
Affordability ranking: 20
Education ranking: 4
Economic Condition ranking: 25
Safety ranking: 6
Arts & Culture ranking: 14

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Famous residents

John Wilbur, Quaker minister
Prudence Crandall, taught first desegregated classroom in USA
Billy Gilman, youngest country western star
Both the Aldrich and the Rockefeller families built small mansions in Hope Valley before the families merged. The Rockefeller house now serves as the rectory for St. Joseph's Parish