Quick answer
Overall prices in the Providence, RI metro were 101.8 vs 97.9 in Richmond, VA in 2024 (US = 100), so Providence is 4.0% more expensive than Richmond; housing rents differ by 5% (103.9 vs 99.1). A $75,000 income in Providence buys about what $72,115 buys in Richmond, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Providence | Richmond | Providence vs Richmond |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 101.8 | 97.9 | +4.0% |
| Goods | 97.1 | 96.8 | +0.4% |
| Housing (rents) | 103.9 | 99.1 | +4.8% |
| Utilities | 148.8 | 89.2 | +66.8% |
| Other services | 102.3 | 98.6 | +3.7% |
| All items, 2008 | 103.7 | 98.1 | +5.7% |
| $50,000 in Providence equals in Richmond | $48,077 | ||
| $100,000 in Providence equals in Richmond | $96,153 | ||
| $150,000 in Providence equals in Richmond | $144,230 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.