Riverside, Rhode Island

Town Identity & Quick Facts

Part of the City of East Providence, Riverside sits along the eastern shoreline of Narragansett Bay — a tight-knit coastal neighborhood known for its approachable lifestyle, water views, and connection to both city and sea.

Home to roughly 18,000 residents, Riverside covers just under six square miles, bordered by Barrington to the south and Providence to the west. Once a turn-of-the-century resort destination — home to the historic Crescent Park Looff Carousel and waterfront dance halls — it has evolved into one of the East Bay’s most desirable commuter communities.

Today, Riverside offers a small-town feel with metropolitan access, pairing scenic shoreline living with the practicality of being ten minutes from downtown Providence.

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Housing Market Snapshot

Riverside’s housing market reflects steady demand and long-term livability, making it a favorite among first-time buyers, downsizers, and commuters.

  • Median Home Sale Price (2025): approximately $425,000

  • Median Rent: around $2,000/month

  • Property Tax Rate: $19.15 per $1,000 of assessed value (East Providence 2024 rate)

The neighborhood offers a mix of colonials, capes, and updated ranches, with clusters of waterfront and waterview homes along Bullocks Point, Crescent View Avenue, and Narragansett Terrace. Renovations and new builds continue to enhance value, while the market remains relatively accessible compared to neighboring Barrington and Bristol.

Riverside is defined by practicality, stability, and a touch of bayfront beauty — a winning combination for long-term homeowners.

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Schools & Education

Riverside is served by the East Providence School District, known for its continued investment in new facilities and student programming.

Elementary Schools: Waddington and Silver Spring
Middle School: Riverside Middle School
High School: East Providence High School — a state-of-the-art campus opened in 2021 featuring advanced technology and career programs.
Private Options: Providence Country Day, St. Mary Academy–Bay View, and Gordon School nearby.
Higher Education: Brown University, RISD, and Johnson & Wales University are 15–20 minutes away.
For families seeking strong schools within a close commute to Providence, Riverside offers both access and community involvement.

Commute & Transport Access

Riverside delivers exceptional convenience for those working in Providence or the surrounding metro area.

  • Distance to Downtown Providence: ~6 miles (10–15 minutes)

  • Access Routes: Route 114 (Wampanoag Trail), Route 103 (Willett Ave), and I-195

  • Public Transit: RIPTA bus routes and nearby Seekonk Park & Ride lot

  • Air Travel: 20 minutes to T.F. Green International Airport

This proximity, combined with peaceful residential streets, makes Riverside one of the most commuter-friendly coastal neighborhoods in Rhode Island.

Recreation & Amenities

Riverside balances coastal relaxation with community life.

  • Crescent Park Carousel & Rose Larisa Park: Landmark waterfront recreation area with walking paths, gardens, and summer concerts.

  • Narragansett Terrace: Quiet shoreline neighborhood with bay access and sunset views.

  • Crescent View Beach: Local swimming and fishing spot.

  • Nearby Parks: Bold Point Park (East Providence) and Haines Memorial State Park (Barrington).

  • Golf & Fitness: Agawam Hunt Club and Wannamoisett Country Club within 10 minutes.

  • Dining: Local favorites include The 133 Club, Riverside Kitchen & Coffee, and Seven Stars Bakery.

Residents enjoy a low-key coastal rhythm with modern comforts always within reach.

Neighborhood Character & Housing Types

Riverside’s charm lies in its variety — both architectural and cultural.

  • Narragansett Terrace: Bayfront homes with broad water views and a close-knit feel.

  • Bullocks Point / Crescent Park: Early 20th-century homes, updated cottages, and proximity to parks and water.

  • Willett Avenue Corridor: Traditional suburban neighborhoods near schools and shopping.

  • Kent Heights Border: Spacious lots and newer construction.

It’s a neighborhood where community feels personal — quiet enough to hear the water, yet connected enough to feel part of something larger.

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Climate, Environment & Coastal Considerations

Riverside benefits from a temperate coastal climate with gentle breezes from Narragansett Bay.

  • Average summer highs: low 80s°F

  • Average winter highs: mid-30s°F

  • Annual precipitation: ~49 inches

While some shoreline areas sit within FEMA flood zones, most of Riverside rests on elevated ground, minimizing risk while maintaining water access. East Providence’s ongoing shoreline restoration and greenway initiatives are improving both resilience and recreation across the waterfront.

Why This Town Fits You

Riverside is Rhode Island living made easy — coastal but convenient, local yet connected.

It’s the kind of place where neighbors wave from porches, kids ride bikes to the park, and the city skyline glows across the bay at night. Whether you’re commuting to Providence, working remotely, or simply looking for a more balanced lifestyle, Riverside offers everyday comfort with scenic calm.

Here, you don’t have to choose between access and atmosphere — you can have both.