Life on the Rhode Island Farmcoast
Rolling fields, a quick commute and panoramic water views - get it all on the farmcoast.
For Sale: 135 Driftwood Dr Tiverton, RI 02878
The Farmcoast is a picturesque coastal community nestled along the border of Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Four towns comprise the Farmcoast area - Tiverton, Westport, Little Compton and South Dartmouth. A hidden gem still unbeknownst to many, the Farmcoast offers quaint coastal living that is away from it all but close enough to commute. Get familiar with the Farmcoast; Rhode Island based interior designer Ally Maloney of Maloney Interiors recently chatted with two Mott & Chace agents who specialize in the area.
Fast Facts:
The Farmcoast name originated from a group of small local businesses who wanted to unite residents and visitors alike in sharing a love for local offerings from food, farms, art and more.
Located within an hour radius of Boston, Newport and Providence.
Made up of four municipalities - two Rhode Island towns and two Massachusetts towns.
Local Favorites
The coastal location of the Farmcoast provides a scenic background four seasons a year with a plethora of options for recreation, dining and more. For Cherry Arnold, a Farmcoast resident and Mott & Chace agent specializing in the area, the choices are endless- from bike riding along waterfront trails to surfing and sailing.
No matter what time of year, Phyllis Ibbotson - another Mott & Chace agent located on the Farmcoast - enjoys exploring the area. “My favorite things to do change with the seasons. As an avid lover of the outdoors, I enjoy exploring the Farmcoast while sailing, kayaking and hiking. In the not so warm months, cross country skiing in the woods and ice skating on local ponds are great ways to take in the picturesque views that are in abundance in the Farmcoast.” After a long day of outside activities, enjoy farm to table dining- another local staple.
Beaches of the Farmcoast:
Horseneck Beach
Westport Town Beach
Grinnell’s Beach
Making the Farmcoast your home
Compared to other towns along the Rhode Island coast, Tiverton, Westport, Little Compton and South Dartmouth stand out- “with a much slower pace, less traffic and rolling farmlands” says Ibbotson. You can find natural beauty around each corner, as well as an abundance of culture. “The Farmcoast is home to a large artist community and many hidden spots known only to locals. Each town has its own Conservation Commission or land trusts, helping to maintain the natural beauty and protect local wildlife, undeveloped land and watershed areas.”
For Sale: 3 Hurricane Lane Westport, MA 02790
For Sale: 3 Hurricane Lane Westport, MA 02790
The Farmcoast offers a unique opportunity for year round and seasonal residents alike. “No matter the season, it is a beautiful area surrounded by the ocean, rivers, woods, farmlands, stone walls and 18th century cottages” Ibbotson notes. “Summer of course is the most active, with an abundance of offerings all in a peaceful setting- beaches, boating, outdoor activities and great restaurants abound.”
With the median home price currently at $537,150, the Farmcoast is an attainable and convenient area no matter your resident status. In fact, Ibbotson has seen a significant increase in second home purchases across all price ranges. “It used to be that second homes were exclusively waterfront or large farm properties, but since the onset of the pandemic we have seen an increase in second home purchases in the lower price range as people want a second home in close proximity to all the area has to offer but can’t necessary afford a million-dollar home.”
Of course, the luxury real estate market in the Farmcoast is strong as well, with “high end buyers looking for either waterfront properties with water access as well as a dock or mooring, or a property with significant acreage offering privacy” says Ibbotson.
For year round residents, the unique blend of farmland and beautiful coastline entices families looking for the idyllic rural lifestyle. While the Farmcoast is a quick drive away from Providence and Boston, life is slower paced and serene. “There is never a lack of things to do or events to attend for adults and children alike” according to Ibbotson. “There are youth sailing programs in the summer at the local yacht clubs, as well as a variety of camps to keep kids engaged. In the fall, families enjoy apple picking and smores by the campfire in the woods or on the beach, all in a bucolic setting - and don’t forget sledding in the winter.”