The Rhode Island Standard of Need provides a realistic picture of what it costs for individuals and families to afford a no-frills life in our state. The 2026 report calculates monthly and annual budgets for housing, food, transportation, health care, child care, and other essentials—and shows that nearly 40% of Rhode Island households may not have enough income to meet their basic needs.
Explore the report’s findings on the cost of living, economic disparities, and the policies that can help move Rhode Island from need to prosperity.