Let the numbers do the talking.
Bristol, RI vs Middletown, RI
Bristol, RI vs Middletown, RI: What the data shows
Bristol, RI is in Bristol, RI while Middletown, RI is in Middletown, RI — both in the same state. On home prices, Bristol, RI is the more affordable option at $426,000 median — $54,100 less than Middletown, RI's $480,100. WYLT rates Bristol, RI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Middletown, RI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Bristol, RI has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Middletown, RI has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Bristol, RI has Low flood risk and Middletown, RI has Low flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, Middletown, RI has the higher school rating — Bristol, RI rates 5.8/10 and Middletown, RI rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Bristol, RI | Middletown, RI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $426K ✓ Lower price | $480K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $91K | $98K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 14/100 ✓ Better transit | 2/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | 1/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 30 min | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.8/10 | 6.1/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with school‑goersLong‑term homeownersPeople who prefer a quiet, rural setting | suburban familiesmiddle‑income earnerscommuters to Providence |
Bottom line
Bottom line: Both Bristol and Middletown are solid, car‑dependent suburbs with similar commute times and low walk scores. Bristol is cheaper (median $426k vs $480k) and has a comparable school rating, making it a better pick for families on a tighter budget or those who value a quieter rural feel. Middletown offers a slightly higher school score and a more robust middle‑class vibe for those willing to pay a bit more for marginally better education and community amenities.
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