Rhode Island

Rhode Island Cost of Living & Benefits

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Learn more about average salaries, cost of living, and expenses in the Rhode Island region.

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Salaries

Salaries range from $42,000-$47,000 for new teachers in Rhode Island. Corps members are independently hired by local schools or districts. They are responsible for obtaining certification and employment and are not paid by TFA.

  • Monthly pre-tax salary: $3333
  • Taxes: $576.10
  • Health Insurance: $200

For the 2022-2023 school year, our largest district partner, Providence Public Schools, is currently offering incentives ($10,000 total; $5,000 in year one and $2,500 in year two and year three as part of a commitment incentive) for hard-to-fill positions like middle and high school math, science, special education, dual language, and ESL (all grades). Additionally, the district is offering a $2,500 early contract incentive for those signing a contract prior to March 1 in a hard-to-fill area and a relocation incentive for up to $3,000 for staff moving from a state other than Rhode Island, Massachusetts, or Connecticut. 

Lastly, Providence Public Schools is offering a loan forgiveness incentive of up to $25,000 for educators of color, which will continue for the 22-23 school year. This incentive is made possible through funding and partnership with the Rhode Island Foundation. Participants are eligible to have up to $6,000 of their college loan debt paid off after completing year one of teaching, up to an additional $8,500 after completing year two and up to another $10,500 after completing year three.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision care
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Employee assistance and wellness programs
  • Family-planning services
  • Vaccinations (e.g., flu shots)
  • Prescription Benefits
  • Life insurance
  • Retirement benefits

Moving Costs

  • Up-front testing costs: $350
  • Up-front certification costs: $500
  • First month’s rent and deposit: $1300
  • Travel to summer training: $200
  • Professional attire: $215
  • School supplies: $250
  • Subtotal: $2,815

Rent & Utilities

  • Rent Shared: $650 each
  • Rent Single: $1,120
  • Utilities: $150

Living Expenses 

  • Food: $400
  • Car Payment: $300
  • Car Insurance: $300
  • Health Insurance: $200
  • Utilities: $150

Transportation

  • Most corps members find that a car is required to get around.
  • Public transportation is limited to the RIPTA bus lines.