Pros and Cons of Living in Exeter

Exeter's core trade-off pairs genuine rural, low-density living against real, disclosed housing-cost and convenience trade-offs.

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Pro: a genuine, rare rural character

Exeter's real, low-density, farmland-and-open-space character stands out within Rhode Island's otherwise densely populated reputation.

Pro: real, substantial recreational land access

A substantial share of Exeter's land sits within the Arcadia Management Area, RI's largest state-owned recreational area at over 14,000 acres.

Con: a real, disclosed housing-cost premium

Exeter's $650,000 median sale price runs meaningfully above Rhode Island's own statewide figures, a real, disclosed cost this record does not soften.

Con: no incorporated commercial center or hospital

Exeter has no downtown or hospital of its own -- residents drive to neighboring towns for both, a real, disclosed convenience trade-off.

Key takeaways

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Last reviewed: 2026-08-28. Independent research; not financial, tax, or legal advice -- confirm current figures with a local professional before making a decision.