Scituate, Rhode Island: An Ideal Place to Live for Those Who Cherish Privacy and Peace
Located in the heart of Rhode Island, Scituate is a charming town often overshadowed by its more bustling neighbors but prized for its rural charm and tranquility. If you're seeking a place to put down roots in a picturesque and peaceful setting, Scituate might just be the haven you're looking for.
Unique Characteristics of Scituate
What sets Scituate apart is its proximity to the Scituate Reservoir, which supplies drinking water to approximately 80% of the state while protecting most of the town from urban development. As a result, you won't find malls, large apartment buildings, or any significant industrial developments in Scituate. The overwhelming majority of Scituate is made up of single-family housing, with just a small mix of commercial and industrial development in the three main villages.
A Rural Lifestyle with a Charm
The people of Scituate are generally friendly and welcoming, with a lifestyle that changes from the bustling Providence suburbs to the serene and rural western/northwestern part of Rhode Island. If you're someone who prefers quiet neighborhoods and limited public interaction, you'll likely feel at home in Scituate.
Crime rates in Scituate are extremely low, making it a safe place to live. However, the biggest challenge is the real estate market. If you can't buy a home, finding a rental property might be frustrating. Despite the low property taxes, approximately the lowest in the state, there are other costs to consider. Many homes in Scituate use well water and septic systems, which can be expensive to maintain. Additionally, they do not have access to natural gas, relying on oil heat and electricity for home heating and cooking. Some homeowners have made propane conversions to address this issue.
Disruptions and Maintenance
As a rural town, Scituate is prone to lengthy power outages after storms. In a memorable incident during an October storm this year, my house was without power for five days. Ensuring you have alternative power or a backup heating system is crucial. Being self-sufficient in yard work and snow cleanup is more important as well. The minimum housing lots are typically large, allowing you to either take on the tasks yourself or hire professionals for maintenance.
Pros and Cons of Scituate
While living in Scituate has its challenges, it offers a unique set of advantages. The picturesque and rural setting is unmatched by many surrounding towns and cities, which makes it a desirable place to live for those who value privacy and peace.
On the downside, the lack of natural gas and the reliance on well water and septic systems can be inconvenient. The minimum housing lots are large, which makes it necessary to either do considerable yard work personally or pay for it. Additionally, relying on propane conversions can be costly.
Amenities and Facilities
Scituate does not have major shopping centers or malls. Instead, it offers a small mix of commercial and industrial development in the three main villages. Deliveries can be a lifesaver, especially for groceries. However, other services such as pizza delivery may not be available. In general, life in Scituate is more amenity-focused than fast-paced city living.
School System and Community
The school system in Scituate is known to be good, ensuring that your children will receive a quality education. This, combined with the friendly community and comfortable properties, makes Scituate a preferred place to live for families and those who value stability and security.
In conclusion, if you're in search of a peaceful, rural town with a strong sense of community and low crime rates, Scituate, Rhode Island, is definitely worth considering.