City Profile
Johnston, Rhode Island
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Johnston is a vibrant suburban town located in Providence County, Rhode Island, originally incorporated in 1759 and named after colonial attorney general Augustus Johnston. Blending historical charm with modern residential growth, the town features notable landmarks like the Clemence Irons House alongside expanding commercial hubs. People are drawn to Johnston for its peaceful neighborhood feel, strong community identity, and convenient proximity to downtown Providence.
Rhode Island, the smallest U.S. state, offers a coastal New England lifestyle with a strong sense of community. Its economy is diverse, with major industries including healthcare and social assistance, manufacturing, education, professional and technical services, finance and insurance, and tourism and hospitality. Living in Rhode Island is generally more expensive than the national average, particularly due to higher housing and utility costs, though groceries and healthcare are more in line with national averages. The state experiences a New England climate with cold, snowy winters and warm summers, and its small size means beaches and urban amenities are usually a short drive away.
How this 62/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 76 / 100 | 76.0 | 30% | 22.8 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 105.0 | 37.5 | 25% | 9.4 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $91,866 Income needed to live here: $60,000 Unemployment rate: 4.3% | 81.3 | 20% | 16.3 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.43% Job growth rate: 1.8% | 45.9 | 15% | 6.9 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 70 / 100 | 70.0 | 10% | 7.0 |
| Overall score | 62.3 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 1 (fast), q=78), last refreshed
11 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Businesses in Johnston
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Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Johnston is relatively balanced compared to the national average, though housing and property values reflect the broader northeastern economic pressures. Expenses such as utilities and transportation align closely with regional standards, while local grocery and healthcare costs remain competitive relative to nearby metropolitan centers. Overall, residents experience a moderate cost structure that balances suburban comfort with accessibility to urban amenities.
Income
Salary Insights
Johnston's economy is anchored by a diverse mix of healthcare, retail, professional services, and light manufacturing enterprises. Proximity to major employment corridors in Providence County allows many residents to commute easily into healthcare and financial sectors, while local businesses benefit from active municipal development initiatives. The growth of small businesses and remote work infrastructure further supports a resilient local workforce.
The average salary in Johnston is $72,000 per year. You would need approximately $60,000 to live comfortably.
Employment
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Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Transportation in Johnston is primarily car-dependent, with major thoroughfares like Route 6 and Interstate 295 facilitating regional commuting. While public transit options are somewhat limited compared to central Providence, the town's strategic location ensures manageable drive times to major employment hubs and T.F. Green International Airport.
At a Glance
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Community Q&A
Questions about Johnston
What people ask about living in and moving to Johnston, Rhode Island.
What is the average salary in Johnston and how does it affect job prospects?
The average annual salary in Johnston is $72,000. This figure suggests that many local jobs pay around the national median, offering a comfortable income relative to the city’s modestly higher cost of living. To explore specific opportunities, browse regional job boards, the city’s employment portal, or statewide labor market reports. Networking through community events and checking with local chambers of commerce ca...
What is the typical rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Johnston?
According to recent data, the average rent in Johnston is about $2,072 per month. This figure reflects the overall market and includes a range of unit sizes, so a one‑bedroom apartment is likely to be close to that average, though exact prices can vary depending on location, amenities, and lease terms. To get current listings, check online rental platforms, local property management websites, or the city’s housing re...
How does Johnston’s cost of living compare to the national average?
Johnston’s cost‑of‑living index is 105, meaning it is about 5 % higher than the national average, which is set at 100. This modest increase reflects slightly higher prices for housing, goods, and services, while many other expenses remain close to the national norm. When planning your budget, factor in the higher rent and any additional costs such as utilities or transportation. Using a cost‑of‑living calculator that...
How are public schools rated in Johnston?
Johnston is served by a public school district that generally receives ratings near or above state averages, reflecting solid academic performance and extracurricular offerings. For precise school ratings, review the state education department’s report cards or the district’s website, which provides test scores, graduation rates, and program details. Visiting schools, attending open houses, and speaking with parents...
Is Johnston a safe place to live?
Johnston has a safety score of 76 out of 100, indicating a relatively safe community compared with many U.S. cities. The score reflects lower-than‑average violent crime and property crime rates, though it is not the lowest possible. For up‑to‑date crime statistics, consult the city’s police department website or state crime data portals. Talking to current residents and checking neighborhood watch groups can also pro...
What public transportation options are available in Johnston?
Johnston is served by the regional transit authority, which operates bus routes connecting the city to nearby towns and major employment centers. Schedules and route maps are available on the authority’s website, and many routes link to commuter rail stations for longer trips. Additionally, the city maintains a network of bike lanes and sidewalks for active transportation. If you need real‑time updates, many transit...
Where can I find primary care doctors in Johnston?
Johnston has several primary‑care practices within the city limits, as well as nearby clinics that accept most insurance plans. To locate a physician, use the state medical board’s provider lookup tool or health‑insurance member portals, which list doctors by specialty and location. The city’s health department website also offers resources on community health centers and urgent‑care locations if you need immediate c...
What recreational activities are popular in Johnston?
Residents enjoy a mix of outdoor and cultural activities, including parks with walking trails, community sports leagues, and seasonal festivals organized by the city. The local recreation department maintains facilities for basketball, baseball, and swimming, and there are often community classes ranging from art to fitness. For event calendars and facility reservations, check the city’s official website or the recre...
What should I know about utilities and services when moving to Johnston?
When you move to Johnston, you’ll need to arrange for electricity, water, gas, and waste services, which are provided by regional utility companies. Internet and cable options are offered by multiple providers serving the area; you can compare plans on their websites or through consumer comparison tools. It’s a good idea to contact each service a few weeks before your move to schedule installation dates and avoid any...
What’s the overall vibe of living in Johnston?
Johnston blends suburban comfort with easy access to larger urban amenities. The town’s modestly higher cost of living is balanced by a strong sense of community, well‑maintained public spaces, and a safety score that suggests a relatively low‑crime environment. Residents often cite the town’s family‑friendly atmosphere, local events, and convenient transportation links as positives. To get a personal feel, consider...
Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Johnston? Add your own.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Senior Care in Johnston
14 assisted living, nursing & memory care facilities in Johnston.
Senior Care
Anchor Bay at Pocasset
Johnston, RI
Senior Care
Agape Homes of Rhode Island
Johnston, RI
Assisted Living
Morgan Health Center
Johnston, RI
Senior Care
Briarcliffe Manor Assisted Living
Johnston, RI
Assisted Living
Briarcliffe Manor
Johnston, RI
Senior Care
Anchor Bay at Pacasset
Johnston, RI
Assisted Living
Cherry Hill Manor
Johnston, RI
Senior Care
The Bridge at Cherry Hill
Johnston, RI
Assisted Living
Morgan Health Center
Johnston, RI
Senior Care
Briarcliffe Manor Assisted Living
Johnston, RI
Assisted Living
Briarcliffe Manor
Johnston, RI
Senior Care
Anchor Bay at Pacasset
Johnston, RI
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