Living in Cumberland Hill, RI: Housing, Wages, and Economy Guide

4 min readUpdated 2026-04-06

Discover the economic reality of Cumberland Hill, RI, where a $131,006 median income supports a $362,700 housing market in this prosperous northern enclave.

Cumberland Hill at a Glance

population

8,638

median income

131,006

median home value

362,700

Housing Costs

Cumberland Hill serves as a prominent example of a stable, residential suburban market in Rhode Island. With a median home value of $362,700, the area remains an attractive destination for families and professionals seeking a balance between accessibility and property value. This price point represents a significant investment, yet it remains relatively accessible when measured against the local median household income of $131,006. The housing stock here primarily consists of single-family detached homes, which continue to see steady demand as residents move away from the denser, more expensive urban cores found in other parts of the state.

Prospective homeowners in Cumberland Hill should note that the current valuation reflects the limited inventory typical of northern Rhode Island suburbs. As buyers look for stability, the market has maintained a firm trajectory, ensuring that homeowners build equity consistently over time. When compared to the rapid appreciation seen in coastal areas or more congested hubs like Providence, RI, Cumberland Hill offers a measured, predictable environment. The housing market here is defined by long-term occupancy, contributing to the quiet, established neighborhood atmosphere that defines the local landscape.

Income & Wages

Residents of Cumberland Hill enjoy a robust financial profile, anchored by a median household income of $131,006. This high income level serves as the economic engine for the community, allowing for a standard of living that ranks among the higher tiers within the state. This prosperity is largely driven by access to regional labor markets in northern Rhode Island and southern Massachusetts, where diverse industries from healthcare to professional services offer competitive wages for high-skilled labor. The ability to commute to nearby major employment centers while living in a residential enclave is a significant contributor to the financial health of the population.

This level of median income provides families with a high degree of flexibility regarding housing costs, education, and discretionary spending. Because the median income is so substantial, the ratio of housing costs to total income in Cumberland Hill is often more favorable than in neighborhoods closer to the urban center of Pawtucket, RI. This financial cushion allows residents to prioritize long-term savings and local reinvestment. The community's demographic profile suggests a population that is well-positioned to weather regional economic fluctuations, keeping the local economy insulated and stable year over year.

Cost of Living Breakdown

While housing is the primary driver of the cost of living in Cumberland Hill, it is essential to consider the broader economic factors that impact residents. The cost of daily goods, services, and local taxes is consistent with the higher standard of living present in the area. Because residents maintain a high median income of $131,006, the local service economy is tailored to meet the needs of a middle-to-upper-middle-class demographic. This often manifests in the quality of local amenities, parks, and schools, which are well-supported by local property taxes.

When evaluating the total cost of living, residents must account for transportation and commuting costs. The proximity to regional transit arteries is a major benefit, though vehicle dependency remains common for the 8,638 residents living here. Unlike the more walkable, transit-heavy corridors found in Central Falls, RI, living in Cumberland Hill requires personal vehicle maintenance and fuel budgeting. However, the cost of these logistics is balanced by the relative safety, lower density, and higher quality of life that the residential layout provides.

How It Compares to Nearby Cities

Comparing Cumberland Hill to surrounding municipalities highlights its unique position in the regional market. While cities like Cranston, RI offer more urban amenities and a larger population base, they often come with higher density and a more volatile housing market. In contrast, Cumberland Hill maintains a population of 8,638, which provides a sense of community that is often lost in larger municipalities. This size allows for better infrastructure management and a stronger community identity, making it a preferred location for those who desire a break from the frantic pace of the state's largest cities.

Furthermore, when looking at the broader northern Rhode Island area, the value proposition of Cumberland Hill stands out. For instance, when looking at Greenville, RI, buyers often compare housing styles and community accessibility. While some may look toward Tiverton, RI for a more rural or coastal aesthetic, Cumberland Hill offers a more central northern location that is hard to beat for working professionals. The median home value of $362,700 is effectively competitive against other suburbs, offering a high-value entry point for those wanting to maintain proximity to the regional economic pulse without paying the extreme premiums often seen in Newport, RI or Newport East, RI.

Is It Worth Living Here?

Deciding to move to Cumberland Hill is a decision rooted in prioritizing quality of life and long-term financial stability. With a median income of $131,006 and a median home value of $362,700, the data suggests a community that is not only affordable for its residents but also one that fosters a high level of economic well-being. The community is well-suited for individuals who value stability over the chaotic, shifting dynamics of dense urban centers. While it may not have the vibrant nightlife of larger cities, the trade-off is a quiet, reliable, and affluent neighborhood environment.

Ultimately, the value of the city is best realized by families and professionals who work in the region and want to return home to a stable, well-maintained community. If you are comparing your options against cities like East Providence, RI or the academic hub of Kingston, RI, Cumberland Hill sits in a favorable "middle-ground" that offers both growth potential and immediate quality of life. The data supports the conclusion that this is an economically sound area that continues to attract residents who appreciate the intersection of suburban peace and robust financial health.

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Frequently Asked Questions

With a median home value of $362,700 and a high median household income of $131,006, the area is considered affluent but provides excellent value for the standard of living it offers.