Pawtucket Photo

Downtown, Pawtucket,RI

Neighborhood Data
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Downtown Pawtucket, nestled in the southeast part of the city, is a vibrant neighborhood that perfectly blends historic charm with modern amenities. For anyone moving or relocating here, it offers a unique experience filled with local culture, arts, and community spirit. A standout feature of the area is its bustling arts scene, highlighted by the Pawtucket Arts Festival and numerous galleries showcasing local talent. The neighborhood is also home to the historic Hope Artiste Village, a creative hub housed in renovated mill buildings where you can find artists' studios, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. This area truly embraces the artistic vibe, making it a welcoming place for creatives and art lovers alike.

What makes Downtown Pawtucket even more appealing is its proximity to the city's main attractions and conveniences. Just a short walk or quick drive from the city's core, residents enjoy easy access to a variety of dining options, from trendy eateries to classic Rhode Island seafood spots. The neighborhood is also well served by public transportation, making commuting to work or exploring nearby cities a breeze. Families moving here will appreciate the community-oriented events and parks nearby, such as Slater Memorial Park, which offers plenty of green space for outdoor activities and family outings. The neighborhood’s walkability and friendly atmosphere encourage an active, community-focused lifestyle.

For those who love a bit of history mixed with everyday conveniences, Downtown Pawtucket delivers on all fronts. The area is rich with historic architecture dating back to its industrial roots, with many buildings thoughtfully repurposed for modern use. It’s an area that’s been steadily growing and evolving, attracting young professionals and families looking for a lively yet comfortable place to call home. Plus, with easy access to the bigger Downtown area of Pawtucket, you’re never far from entertainment, shopping, and recreational activities. Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences, dining adventures, or simply a friendly neighborhood vibe, Downtown Pawtucket in the southeast part of the city offers a welcoming place to start your new chapter.

Community Snapshot

Population 4,512
Density (People/sqml.) 11,731
Median Age 39.1
Married Couples
32%
32% of the population of Downtown aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
25%
25% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 32% of the Downtown population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 25% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Downtown neighborhood age breakdown chart

Downtown demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 4,512 residents, Downtown is notably smaller than many other Pawtucket neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Boasting a population density of 11,731, Downtown is more densely populated than many other Pawtucket neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With an average age of 39, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

Crime in Downtown

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Types of Crime

Downtown neighborhood age breakdown chart

Downtown Crime Map

The Downtown crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing

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Home Price $246,844
Median Rent $953
People/Household 2.3

Home Price Breakdown

Downtown neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 79% Own 21%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 59% After 2010 41%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Downtown, the median home price is about $246,844, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Downtown have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $953, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Wildflower
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Three Sisters
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Slater Mill
Attraction
min.
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McCoy Stadium
Stadium
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Dunkin'
Fast Food
min.
min.
Dunkin'
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Vi
Grocery Store
min.
min.
Andellas Meat Market
Butcher
min.
min.

Parks

Wilkinson Park
Park
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Park
Park
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Shops

Pets
Pets
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Discount Store
Discount Store
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Broadway and Benefit
Bus Stop
min.
min.
Brown and Mendon
Bus Stop
min.
min.

Transit Stations

Pawtucket/Central Falls
Transit Station
min.
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Peter Pan Bus Lines Terminal
Bus Station
min.
min.

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Walgreens
Pharmacy
min.
min.
Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island
Clinic
min.
min.

Health Care

Blackstone Valley Community Healthcare
Doctor
min.
min.
 
 
 
 
 
 

Safety

Pawtucket Police Department
Police
min.
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Pawtucket Fire Station 2
Fire Station
min.
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Henry J. Winters School
481 Broadway, Pawtucket, RI
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
International Charter School
334 Pleasant Street, Pawtucket, RI
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Blackstone Academy Charter
334 Pleasant Street, Pawtucket, RI
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Cunningham School
40 Baldwin Street, Pawtucket, RI
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Charles E. Shea High School
485 East Avenue, Pawtucket, RI
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Jacqueline M. Walsh School
350 Divison Street, Pawtucket, RI
High School 9 - 12 School Score
G. Harold Hunt School
12 Kendall Street, Central Falls, RI
Elementary School PK - PK School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Downtown combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Downtown can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $24,006
Household Income $45,469
Unemployment 3.8%

Income Breakdown

Downtown Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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Local economic factors play a key role in shaping the character and accessibility of a neighborhood, influencing everything from lifestyle to opportunity. Household incomes in Downtown average around $45,469, which is lower than average. This affordability contributes to a more accessible lifestyle, making it an appealing choice for first-time homeowners, young families, and those looking to enjoy the benefits of the area without a high price tag.

The employment landscape offers valuable insight into the stability and economic health of a neighborhood. In Downtown, the unemployment rate sits at around 4%, which is about average compared to many other areas. This balanced rate reflects a steady local economy and a reliable foundation for residents and businesses alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the highlights?

Downtown Pawtucket boasts a vibrant arts scene, anchored by the celebrated Pawtucket Arts Festival held annually. Notable attractions include the historic Hope Artiste Village, a sprawling complex of artist studios and creative businesses, and the beautifully restored Slater Mill, recognized as the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. The area is also home to diverse dining options, ranging from trendy cafes to classic New England eateries.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Yes, Downtown Pawtucket is rich in history with landmarks such as the Slater Mill Historic Site, which offers an in-depth look at early American textile manufacturing. The Pawtucket Armory, an imposing structure dating back to 1894, adds to the area's historic charm. Additionally, the downtown district features many preserved 19th-century buildings that contribute to its unique architectural landscape.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Downtown Pawtucket benefits from convenient access to major highways, including Interstate 95 and Route 1, facilitating easy travel throughout Rhode Island and neighboring states. The area is also served by the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA), with several bus lines running through downtown, making public transportation a practical option for residents and visitors alike.

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