#17 Charlestown: RI's Best Communities 2013

#17 Charlestown: RI's Best Communities 2013

With a strand of preserved beachfront creating arguably one of the most beautiful shorelines in Rhode Island, the smallish South County town enjoys open spaces and old-fashioned beachfront life. In addition to vast expanses of conservational and recreational ground, the headquarters to Rhode Island's Narragansett Indian Tribe are located in Charlestown. State parks, wildlife refuges, and beaches also serve to attract visitors and local residents alike.

Charlestown by the numbers

Established: 1669
Population: 7,827
Median household income: $69,271
Median housing price: $308,750

2013 Best Communities rankings

Overall ranking: 17
Affordability ranking: 30
Education ranking: 5
Economic Condition ranking: 6
Safety ranking: 7
Arts & Culture ranking: 30

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Famous residents

Eric Lutes, actor