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OP, based on your initial post and all of your subsequent replies, it is clear that your preference is Rhode Island. So, why create and perpetuate another message thread about Rhode Island?
Unfortunately, the economy of Rhode Island is what economists have dubbed a "FILO" (First In, Last Out) from a recessionary perspective. Following the departure of heavy industry from Rhode Island over 40 years ago, the state sorely failed to diversify its economic base like neighboring Massachusetts. As a result, Rhode Island has experienced chronically high unemployment and underemployment rates for decades. Accordingly, the consumer confidence index (CCI) in Rhode Island is perpetually low. In conclusion, an underperforming economy with correspondingly high unemployment and underemployment rates and a low CCI results in stagnant population growth and nonappreciable real estate valuations in ordinary neighborhoods.
Another contentious, ongoing issue, which you may read about in more detail on the Rhode Island forum, is land-grabbing. In addition to all of the state's economic woes, real estate investors from much wealthier states such as Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York have been land-grabbing much of the prime real estate in coastal Rhode Island over the past 5-10 years. Sadly, many of these part-year residents from different states are further driving up real estate costs for the hum-drum locals, many of whom have been grappling with despair for decades already.
Also, OP, I am going to assume that you probably have not spent very much time in Rhode Island. Yes, the coastal scenery is very lovely (during the summertime), crime is generally low and people are generally good, but the climate, infrastructure and housing stock are very poor by national standards. Regarding the state's climate, I vividly recall freezing cold days in May and September during my youth in Rhode Island. Unfortunately, the cold season in New England is very long, even in Rhode Island. On a different note, the roads and bridges of Rhode Island are in utter disrepair and are a telltale indicator of political corruption -- something for which the Ocean State is well-known -- and, in particular, the misappropriation of tax revenue. Finally, the residential homes in Rhode Island are, for the most part, old, small and non-functional in the modern era, often lacking finished basements, garages, multiple bathrooms and walk-in closets.
Source: I grew up in Rhode Island and most of my family still lives there.
OP, based on your initial post and all of your subsequent replies, it is clear that your preference is Rhode Island. So, why create and perpetuate another message thread about Rhode Island?
Thank you for your info. Yes, we have a leaning toward RI for a number of reasons - closer to family and friends, no venomous snakes and spiders to deal with, lower crime, close to Boston and the Cape and Islands. However, Virginia is also a state we have visited frequently, like a lot, love it's proximity to DC and the MD coast, and have family there, so is also a strong contender.
We in no way have our minds made up, so the reason for "perpetuating another message thread" is to learn, and that's specifically what this forum is for - to be able to compare and contrast the states of interest and ultimately gather more info to help determine which might be the better state.
OP, based on your initial post and all of your subsequent replies, it is clear that your preference is Rhode Island. So, why create and perpetuate another message thread about Rhode Island?
Unfortunately, the economy of Rhode Island is what economists have dubbed a "FILO" (First In, Last Out) from a recessionary perspective. Following the departure of heavy industry from Rhode Island over 40 years ago, the state sorely failed to diversify its economic base like neighboring Massachusetts. As a result, Rhode Island has experienced chronically high unemployment and underemployment rates for decades. Accordingly, the consumer confidence index (CCI) in Rhode Island is perpetually low. In conclusion, an underperforming economy with correspondingly high unemployment and underemployment rates and a low CCI results in stagnant population growth and nonappreciable real estate valuations in ordinary neighborhoods.
Another contentious, ongoing issue, which you may read about in more detail on the Rhode Island forum, is land-grabbing. In addition to all of the state's economic woes, real estate investors from much wealthier states such as Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York have been land-grabbing much of the prime real estate in coastal Rhode Island over the past 5-10 years. Sadly, many of these part-year residents from different states are further driving up real estate costs for the hum-drum locals, many of whom have been grappling with despair for decades already.
Also, OP, I am going to assume that you probably have not spent very much time in Rhode Island. Yes, the coastal scenery is very lovely (during the summertime), crime is generally low and people are generally good, but the climate, infrastructure and housing stock are very poor by national standards. Regarding the state's climate, I vividly recall freezing cold days in May and September during my youth in Rhode Island. Unfortunately, the cold season in New England is very long, even in Rhode Island. On a different note, the roads and bridges of Rhode Island are in utter disrepair and are a telltale indicator of political corruption -- something for which the Ocean State is well-known -- and, in particular, the misappropriation of tax revenue. Finally, the residential homes in Rhode Island are, for the most part, old, small and non-functional in the modern era, often lacking finished basements, garages, multiple bathrooms and walk-in closets.
Source: I grew up in Rhode Island and most of my family still lives there.
Housing, infrastructure and weather is just as bad in SE MASs without the beauty of the coast. Also traffic in MA is much worse and COL is higher. I don’t think being from MA, any of that would deter her from rRI. It’s really just the weak economy that’s a problem. Which is not a problem if you have a job.
Macalan, it's great that you know what you are looking for and have found someplace that fits your requirements with beauty, charm, and many opportunities for adventure. Rhode Island is a beautiful state with lots of shore line. I did enjoy my time in and around RI. I grew up in Attleboro which is just over the state border. The last time I was there was for a wedding in Bristol five years ago. Bristol and the surrounding communities, Barrington, Portsmouth, Middletown, all bring back positive memories. I would suggest looking at these areas. Bristol has Colt State Park, a cute downtown and a small University, and a fourth of July parade. The proximity to Providence and the beaches makes Bristol a good area. I have already mentioned Newport to you. The city along with Providence has the most entertainment and restaurants. I would suggest Cliff Walk and touring some of the mansions. If you are into sports, Newport Jai Alai is fun. I have also enjoyed watching the Pawtucket Red Sox baseball games. I could keep writing, but I'm sure my thoughts would be all over the place. I hope this but of information helps.
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