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Overall Rating: 81/100 · 62,000 veterans (7.6% of population)
Reviewed 2026. Programs and exemptions verified against Rhode Island veterans-affairs and tax-authority sources.
Benefit details verified January 2025. Tax exemptions, caps, and eligibility change and can vary by county — always confirm current figures with your county assessor and your Rhode Island Department of Veterans Affairs before you rely on them.
100% exempt from state income tax (since 2023)
1.39% average effective rate
Varies by municipality (local option)
State sets a minimum; each town sets its own (often larger) exemptions and adopts the totally-disabled/SAH adders. Amounts and eligible tiers vary by town.
Source ↗No veteran-specific exemptions (7% state)
$70,000
VA Medical Center
830 Chalkstone Avenue, Providence, RI 02908
(401) 273-7100
Primary care, mental health, specialty care, PTSD treatment
Tuition waiver
Veterans qualify for in-state tuition rates
4-year value: $12,000
Median Home
$484,000
1BR Rent
$1,550/mo
COL Index
106
Unemployment
3.5%
Major employers: Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, state government, CVS Health
Pros: VA medical center, tax-free military retirement, free registration for 100%
Cons: High housing costs, limited property tax relief, high property taxes
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Rhode Island adds a 5-point credit to a veteran's passing score on competitive civil service entrance exams and a 10-point credit for disabled veterans (war veterans with a VA service-connected disability); a passing score must be achieved before the preference applies.
Official source ↗Rhode Island resident and non-resident veterans with a 100% disability rating qualify for a free permanent (lifetime) freshwater fishing, hunting, or combination license; 100%-disabled individuals are also exempt from the saltwater fishing license requirement.
Official source ↗Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability can obtain a Rhode Island State Park Disability Pass granting free entry and parking at all state-owned parks and recreation areas; apply in person at State Parks Headquarters with current VA documentation.
Official source ↗Rhode Island offers a free 'Veteran' designation on a license or ID for honorably discharged veterans, and a 'Disabled Veteran' designation for those with a 100% service-connected disability; apply at the DMV with a DD-214.
Official source ↗Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability may obtain Disabled Veteran plates (on vehicles with GVWR of 6,300 lbs or less); free registration and plates also transfer to an unremarried surviving spouse for life.
Official source ↗The Rhode Island Veterans Home at Mount Hope Bay in Bristol provides medical, nursing, and rehabilitative care to wartime veterans. Applicants need an honorable discharge, 90 days of wartime active service, and either two consecutive years of RI residency before applying or entry into the military from Rhode Island.
Official source ↗Under RIGL 44-3-4, the surviving spouse (widow or widower) of a qualifying veteran may claim a municipal property tax exemption; amounts vary by city/town. Contact the local tax assessor to apply.
Official source ↗Sourced from official state agencies; programs and eligibility change — confirm with your Rhode Island Department of Veterans Affairs before applying.