Best Nursing Homes in Rhode Island

26 of 146 nursing homes (18%) meet our strict criteria. The national average is 31%.

#48 of 50 states

26 recommended · 84 avoid · 27 cities · data

Recommended Statewide

26

Facilities graded B or better with zero fines

26 recommended 10 caution 84 avoid

National Rank

#48

Below Average

Total Facilities

146

across 27 cities

Facilities to Avoid

84

74 Grade F

$11,116,362 in combined fines

Best City

Pawtucket

33% recommended

State Average

3.1

CMS star rating

Rhode Island vs National Average

Comparison of nursing home metrics between Rhode Island and national averages
Metric Rhode Island National Verdict
% Recommended 18% 31% ✗ Worse
Average CMS Stars 3.1 3.0 ✓ Better
Staff Turnover 50% 44% ✗ Worse
RN Hours/Day 0.65 0.75 ✗ Worse
Avg Deficiencies 8.5 7.5 ✗ Worse

Data from CMS Care Compare as of . National averages based on all 15,000 U.S. nursing homes.

The Rhode Island Reality

Rhode Island ranks a concerning 48th out of 50 states for nursing home care, a position that places it among the lowest nationally. With only 18% of its facilities recommended, compared to the national average of 31%, families may find themselves facing a challenging landscape when searching for quality care. The average star rating for nursing homes in the state sits at a modest 3.07, indicating that many facilities may not meet the high standards families are seeking for their loved ones. This disheartening data emphasizes the need for thorough research and careful consideration in selecting a nursing home in Rhode Island.

While there are commendable facilities, such as Briarcliffe Manor in Johnston, which boasts a trust score of 93 and provides a glimmer of hope for families, there are also significant concerns. In total, Rhode Island has 146 nursing homes, with 84 facilities identified as ones to avoid, including 74 that received F grades. The state has accumulated over $11 million in fines, highlighting systemic issues that families should be aware of when assessing their options. Notably, Pawtucket stands out as the best city for nursing home care in Rhode Island, with 33% of its facilities receiving recommendations, illustrating that some areas may offer better choices than others.

When searching for nursing home care in Rhode Island, families should prioritize several key factors. First, examine the trust scores and star ratings of facilities; these metrics can provide insight into the quality of care and resident satisfaction. It is also critical to check for any fines associated with nursing homes, as these can indicate potential issues in care delivery. Additionally, consider visiting facilities in person to assess the environment and meet staff. By conducting thorough research and focusing on these aspects, families can make informed decisions to secure the best possible care for their loved ones.

Quality Trend

Is Rhode Island improving or declining?

2024
21%
2025
19%
2026
18%

Rhode Island quality has remained stable.

Cities Ranked by Quality

Click any city to see detailed facility recommendations

Statewide Warning Patterns

Common issues found across Rhode Island nursing homes

High Number of Facilities with F Grades

In Rhode Island, 74 out of 146 nursing homes have received F grades, indicating significant quality and safety issues.

Facilities to Avoid

There are 84 facilities in Rhode Island recommended to avoid, indicating a significant portion of homes may not meet quality care standards.

Substantial Total Fines

With total fines amounting to $11,116,362, Rhode Island nursing homes face notable financial penalties, reflecting ongoing regulatory challenges.

Top 10 Nursing Homes in Rhode Island

Highest-scoring facilities statewide

Care Type Availability

Where to find specific care in Rhode Island

Memory Care

30 facilities

Best options in Pawtucket

Short-Term Rehab

80 facilities

Highest success in Pawtucket

Medicaid Beds

150 facilities

Avg waitlist: 2-4 months

Ventilator / Complex Care

5 facilities

Limited availability

Cost Overview

Private Room

$7,500/mo

Near national average

Semi-Private

$6,500/mo

Medicaid Rate

$165/day

75% of recommended facilities accept Medicaid

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Rhode Island compare to neighboring states?

Rhode Island ranks 48th nationally for nursing home quality, which places it below many of its neighboring states. For instance, Massachusetts and Connecticut generally have higher quality ratings and a greater percentage of recommended facilities, indicating that Rhode Island may have room for improvement in its nursing home care standards.

What percentage of nursing homes in Rhode Island meet quality criteria?

Only 18% of nursing homes in Rhode Island meet the recommended quality criteria, significantly lower than the national average of 31%. This statistic highlights concerns regarding the overall quality of care provided in the state's nursing facilities.

Which city in Rhode Island offers the best nursing home care?

Pawtucket is recognized as the best city in Rhode Island for nursing home care, likely due to its higher-rated facilities and better access to resources. Families looking for quality care options should consider Pawtucket when searching for suitable nursing homes.

What is the cost of a private room in a Rhode Island nursing home?

The average cost of a private room in a nursing home in Rhode Island is approximately $12,000 per month. This figure is important for families to consider when planning for long-term care expenses.