YOUR GUIDE TO RENTING ON AQUIDNECK ISLAND

If you're looking to rent on Aquidneck Island, you're in the right place. Whether you’re here for a summer getaway, a winter retreat, or considering a year-round stay, understanding how the local rental market works will make all the difference.

Newport and the surrounding towns have a dynamic rental scene, and this guide breaks it all down for you. Let’s dive into the ins and outs of rental models, application requirements, and other must-know details to help you navigate the process with ease!

Summer Rentals: Soak Up the Sun in Newport

Dreaming of spending summer in Newport? Summer rentals are a hot commodity, and they come fully furnished with premium pricing to match the season's demand. The typical summer rental spans June, July, and August, though some owners allow monthly leases, while others prefer a single tenant for the entire three-month stretch. The minimum allowed stay in most areas of Newport is one month, with the exception of some business districts where you can rent weekly. July and August are the peak months, with higher rates due to warmer weather and a packed event calendar. June, while still prime, often comes at a lower price since the weather is cooler, and events haven't fully kicked off yet.

Summer rentals typically hit the market around the holidays and start getting snapped up early in the year. Here's the catch: to lock in a summer rental, sometimes you'll need to pay the entire lease amount upfront - plus a security deposit. This ensures the owner’s peace of mind and guarantees that the property will be yours when summer rolls around.

To apply, expect to provide basic documents like proof of funds, your driver’s license, and possibly a background check. A credit check is rare since these rentals are paid for in full upfront.

Winter Rentals: The Quiet Charm of Rhode Island

Winter rentals offer a more affordable way to experience the beauty of Aquidneck Island during the off-season. Usually available from September 1 through May 31 or right after Labor Day weekend to right before Memorial Day weekend, these rentals are also fully furnished and typically rented at a fixed rate for the full term. Some landlords prefer starting their leases in October or November, but the standard winter rental term is September through May.

These properties attract military personnel, college students, and working professionals who enjoy a more peaceful, slower-paced Rhode Island winter. By the time summer comes around, many winter rentals flip to summer rentals, welcoming a new set of tenants.

For winter rentals, the application process is more detailed. Expect to provide proof of income, background and credit checks, and identification for each working adult in the household.

Rentals for Salve Regina Students: A Tradition of Early Bird Rentals

For Salve Regina students, winter rentals are almost a rite of passage. Not all winter rentals are available to students, but those that are often booked up a year in advance. That’s right - students are signing leases before they've even unpacked their bags for the current school year! The demand for off-campus housing is high, and it’s common for leases to be signed as early as September for the following year.

Students must complete a basic application, including their driver’s license and a short biography, while their parents or guardians handle the more in-depth application, which includes credit and background checks, proof of income, and ID. A co-signer (usually a parent) is also required for each student.

If you’re a student looking for a place in Newport, start early - Newport’s rental market doesn’t wait for you!

Annual Rentals: Stability for Year-Round Living

If you’re ready to make Aquidneck Island your permanent home, annual rentals might be just what you're looking for. These leases typically last one year or longer, and while most are unfurnished, more furnished options are popping up. Annual rentals are a great choice for military personnel, year-round residents, and working professionals.

Given limited availability, annual leases can be competitive, and each working adult applying must submit a full application with proof of income, credit and background checks, and identification. Landlords prefer strong applicants, and once you’ve secured an annual lease, you’ll enjoy the stability of a long-term home in one of Rhode Island's most sought-after areas.

Pet Policies and Fees: For the Ones with Furry Friends

Planning on bringing your furry friend along? Properties that allow pets may charge a monthly pet fee ranging from $25 to $100 per pet. Rhode Island law prohibits pet security deposits or security deposits more than one month’s rent, so this non-refundable fee is added to your rent. If you're planning on having more than one pet, be prepared for additional fees.

For those with service animals or emotional support animals, landlords are legally required to accommodate your pet, with different stipulations based on the type of pet.  Be sure to provide the proper documentation to confirm y

our animal's status as a service or emotional support animal when submitting your application.

Landlord Rental Regulations: Know Before You Go

Newport has strict and clear rental regulations and more information can be found on the city website. Properties in residential zones must be rented for at least 30 days. Shorter term rentals must be registered with the town and inspected by the City.  If you're renting as an out-of-state owner, you must have a local resident as your designated agent.  Be sure to comply with lead paint laws as well.  

Local Perks: More Than Just Ocean Views

Renting in Newport means you get more than just a cozy home - you also gain access to some sweet local perks! Tenants with annual or winter leases can purchase a $10 parking sticker at Town Hall, making it easier to park in the city.

Additionally, Newport residents can snag a discounted season pass to Easton’s Beach (First Beach) for about $65, saving big compared to the $25 daily rate. Middletown residents also enjoy discounted beach passes for Second Beach, with rates varying seasonally.

Where to Find Seasonal Rentals

Seasonal rentals are available throughout Newport, Middletown, Portsmouth, (with additional options off-island in Tiverton, and Bristol). However, since Middletown and Portsmouth allow short-term rentals like Airbnb, they’re especially popular for temporary housing. Whether you're in the market for a short-term or annual lease, these towns offer a variety of options.

Ready to Rent?

Rhode Island’s rental market moves fast, and securing your dream rental takes careful planning. Whether you're eyeing a summer retreat, a rental near Salve Regina, or a year-round home, starting your search early will give you a leg up.

Check out all of our active rentals here and reach out to us at 401-848-7827 today to learn more!