Charlestown is a lovely historic town in South County, Rhode Island. It has a wonderful mix of rural farms to the north and a quaint beach cottage setting to the south. The neighborhoods are quiet and secluded, with easy access to one of the best ocean fronts in New England. People tend to stay here and settle down, not only because it’s safe and beautiful, but Charlestown also has one of the lowest tax rates in the state of Rhode Island. Plus, it’s a short ride to Westerly or Narragansett for things to do, restaurants and shopping.
According to Realtor.com, the median listing home price in Charlestown, RI was $489K in January 2023, trending down -5.7% year-over-year. The median listing home price per square foot was $364. The median home sold price was $445K.
* Tax rate based per thousand - Sources: United States Census Bureau. 2020 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey Office. Web. 17 March 2022. & Realtor.com
The Fantastic Umbrella Factory is a well-known “shoppers paradise” in Charlestown. You’ll find cafes, artist cooperatives, animal farms, and a bamboo forest all wrapped into one fun experience. There are also several consignment shops and specialty stores in the town center, perfect for collectibles and seeing the fantastic work of local artisans.
Charlestown is home to several waterfront seafood spots, classic taverns, and local dessert & bakery shops. The Rathskeller is highly regarded and fun place to bring the family. While you wait for a table, you can play all different types of outdoor games like cornhole, horseshoes and more. If you’re looking for classic Rhode Island seafood fare, try The Nordic, The Cove or Breachway Grill.
Recreational sports games including a small beachfront, a bike track, sporting fields, and tennis courts. Ninigret Park also includes the Frosty Drew Nature Center & Observatory, where visitors can view the night sky and learn about the observable star systems. You can also go kayaking or swimming in the inlet of Ninigret Pond.
755 campsites, fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking trails. There is also a small beachfront along Watchaug Pond and the Kimball Wildlife refuge.
Public docks and launch ramp, new and used boat sales and rentals, bait & tackle shop.
Charlestown is home to some of the best public beaches in Rhode Island. Each provides great views of the Block Island Sound and has lifeguards on duty. Very family-oriented and friendly for all!
The Chariho Regional School district serves the towns of Charlestown, Richmond, and Hopkinton — “Chariho” is an abbreviated term for all three town names. The district consists of six public schools serving K-12 students, plus alternative and vocational programming for high school students through CHARIHOtech.
For more information on school programs, calendars and contact info, visit their website
Charlestown connects to neighboring South County towns by way of Route 1 (Post Road). Heading North, Route 2 (South County Trail) brings you through Richmond, West Kingston, and Exeter. Route 2 is also the fastest way to Wickford Junction Train Station and leads to I-95 via Route 138 (for travel to Providence).
Distance to Mystic, Connecticut: 20.4 miles (via Route 1)
Distance to Providence: 40.8 miles (via Route 1 to I-95 North)
Distance to Newport: 26.7 miles (via Route 1)
Distance to T.F. Green Airport: 26.7 miles
Distance to Wickford Junction: 21.7 miles
For more information on Charlestown government, community information or directions, please visit their website