Quick answer
Overall prices in the Washington, DC metro were 108.9 vs 101.8 in Providence, RI in 2024 (US = 100), so Washington is 7.0% more expensive than Providence; housing rents differ by 46% (151.1 vs 103.9). A $75,000 income in Washington buys about what $70,102 buys in Providence, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Washington | Providence | Washington vs Providence |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 108.9 | 101.8 | +7.0% |
| Goods | 104.8 | 97.1 | +8.0% |
| Housing (rents) | 151.1 | 103.9 | +45.5% |
| Utilities | 106.7 | 148.8 | -28.3% |
| Other services | 102.3 | 102.3 | +0.0% |
| All items, 2008 | 114.8 | 103.7 | +10.7% |
| $50,000 in Washington equals in Providence | $46,735 | ||
| $100,000 in Washington equals in Providence | $93,469 | ||
| $150,000 in Washington equals in Providence | $140,204 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.