Westerly RI

Westerly – A coastal gem tucked away in southern Rhode Island, Westerly offers charming New England vibes with a seaside twist. From sun-soaked beaches and quaint downtown shops to outdoor concerts and historic lighthouses, this town blends relaxation with adventure. Whether you're strolling along Misquamicut Beach, kayaking on the Pawcatuck River, or enjoying fresh seafood by the shore, Westerly invites you to slow down and soak up the seaside serenity.

• Population: ~18,000
• Weather: Mild summers (70-85°F), chilly winters (20-40°F); coastal breezes year-round.
• Places To Visit: Watch Hill Lighthouse, Misquamicut State Beach, Wilcox Park, The Flying Horse Carousel, Napatree Point.
• Top Activities: Beachcombing, paddleboarding, summer concerts, exploring antique stores, seasonal seafood festivals.
• Famous Food: Lobster rolls, clam cakes, Rhode Island chowder, fish tacos, and local ice cream gems like Mel’s Downtown Creamery.

Westerly, RI is a vibrant coastal town with a strong local economy built around tourism, healthcare, education, and skilled trades. Its beautiful beaches and historic charm attract seasonal visitors, while solid infrastructure supports year-round careers. Below are some of the top jobs currently in demand in Westerly.

Top 5 Jobs in Westerly, Rhode Island

Westerly, RI is a hidden gem on the East Coast where students can find plenty of places to unwind after a busy week of studying. Whether you're into beaches, cozy cafes, or exploring charming downtown areas, Westerly has something to offer.

Misquamicut State Beach – This long stretch of sand is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or playing beach volleyball with friends. Don't miss the breathtaking sunsets.

Wilcox Park – Nestled in the heart of Westerly, this lush green park is perfect for a picnic, a walk, or just relaxing with a good book. The park also hosts events throughout the year.

Grey Sail Brewing of Rhode Island – For students over 21, this local brewery offers a chill atmosphere and a selection of craft beers. It's a great place to hang out with friends or catch live music.

Downtown Westerly – Explore the charming streets lined with unique shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's perfect for an afternoon of browsing or grabbing a coffee with friends.

Westerly Public Library – Offering more than just books, the library often has art exhibits, workshops, and cozy areas to study or relax in peace.

Watch Hill – This quaint coastal village offers stunning ocean views, boutique shops, and the famous Watch Hill Carousel, making it a fun place to explore on a sunny day.

Westerly, Rhode Island is a charming coastal town known for its quality of life, scenic beauty, and access to educational institutions across the region. While Westerly itself is a small city, its proximity to several leading colleges and universities makes it an appealing hub for students in southern Rhode Island and nearby Connecticut. Below are some top public and private institutions accessible to Westerly learners.

Top Public Colleges & Universities Near Westerly, RI

University of Rhode Island (URI) – Located in Kingston, just a short drive from Westerly, URI is the state's flagship public university. It is recognized for strong programs in pharmacy, oceanography, engineering, and business, as well as an active research environment.

Rhode Island College (RIC) – Situated in Providence, RIC offers more than 90 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Known for its affordability and accessibility, it is especially strong in education, nursing, and social work.

Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) – Newport County Campus – Located within reasonable commuting distance, CCRI provides affordable associate degree and career-training programs. It is known for flexibility and strong transfer pathways to four-year institutions.

Three Rivers Community College – Based in Norwich, Connecticut, and within an easy drive from Westerly, Three Rivers offers comprehensive associate degrees and certificates in healthcare, engineering, and liberal arts.

Quinebaug Valley Community College – Located in Danielson, CT, Quinebaug Valley is part of the Connecticut State Colleges system and is known for small class sizes and programs in business, early childhood education, and allied health.

Top Private Colleges & Universities Near Westerly, RI

Salve Regina University – Located in Newport, this Catholic liberal arts university is celebrated for its programs in international relations, nursing, and historic preservation. Its scenic oceanside campus enhances its appeal to students from across the region.

Wheaton College – A top liberal arts college in Norton, MA, Wheaton is known for academic rigor and a strong focus on experiential learning. Programs in psychology, arts, and the sciences attract students nationally.

Connecticut College – Located in New London, just across the state border, Connecticut College is a private liberal arts school with top-tier programs in environmental studies, anthropology, and the arts. Its commitment to community and leadership development stands out.

Roger Williams University – Based in Bristol, Rhode Island, this private university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees. Architecture, marine biology, and legal studies are among its notable strengths.

Mitchell College – Located in New London, CT, Mitchell College is a small private institution that caters especially well to students with unique learning styles. With a focus on individualized support, it offers programs in sports management, communication, and human development.

Westerly, RI, may be a small coastal town, but it offers excellent educational opportunities at both public and private high schools. These schools focus on academic achievement, personal growth, and preparing students for life beyond graduation.

Top Public High Schools in Westerly, RI

• Westerly High School – The main public high school in town, Westerly High prides itself on strong academics, successful athletic programs, and community engagement. It offers honors and AP courses along with career and technical education pathways.
• Chariho Regional High School, Wood River Junction – Just outside Westerly, this school serves nearby towns and is known for its agricultural science and career tech programs. It consistently ranks among top public high schools in southern Rhode Island.
• South Kingstown High School, Wakefield – Though not in Westerly, this school is a popular option for those willing to travel, offering high academic standards, various AP classes, and excellent graduation rates.
• Narragansett High School, Narragansett – A great option within Washington County, this high school offers a supportive learning environment and modern facilities, with a focus on STEM and digital arts.
• The MET School, South Campus, Newport – This public charter school offers personalized learning plans and internships, making it a strong alternative for students looking for a hands-on and real-world educational experience.

Top Private High Schools in Westerly, RI

• The Prout School, Wakefield – A Catholic college-preparatory school, Prout offers the International Baccalaureate program and a wide array of arts and athletics to help develop well-rounded students.
• Rocky Hill Country Day School, East Greenwich – A bit farther from Westerly, this independent school is known for innovative teaching, a strong sense of community, and personalized learning paths for each student.
• St. Michael School, Pawcatuck, CT – Just over the state line, this private Catholic school offers education through eighth grade, but is often chosen for its feeder system into top private and parochial high schools in the region.
• Pine Point School, Stonington, CT – Although it serves grades through 9th, many families from Westerly choose Pine Point for its strong foundation before transitioning to private preparatory high schools.
• Moses Brown School, Providence – While located about an hour from Westerly, this Quaker day school is highly prestigious, offering a rigorous academic program, small classes, and character-building education.

Westerly, Rhode Island, is a beautiful coastal town with a strong community spirit and love for local sports. While it does not have its own major professional sports teams, residents passionately support teams from nearby cities and states in New England. The closest professional teams are located in Providence, Rhode Island, as well as in Boston, Massachusetts, just a couple of hours north.

🏀 Basketball – Boston Celtics (NBA)

• Boston Celtics – One of the most storied franchises in basketball history, the Celtics have won 17 NBA championships, tied with the Los Angeles Lakers for the most in NBA history. Legends like Bill Russell, Larry Bird, and Paul Pierce have worn the green and white. The team continues to be a strong playoff contender and a favorite among fans in Westerly.

⚾ Baseball – Boston Red Sox (MLB)

• Boston Red Sox – The Red Sox are among Major League Baseball’s most beloved teams, with nine World Series titles, including their famous 2004 championship that ended an 86-year drought. Fans in Rhode Island are proud supporters of the Red Sox, with legendary players such as Ted Williams, David Ortiz, and Pedro Martínez etched in history.

🏈 Football – New England Patriots (NFL)

• New England Patriots – Based in Foxborough, Massachusetts, the Patriots are one of the NFL’s most dominant franchises. They have won six Super Bowl titles (2001, 2003, 2004, 2014, 2016, and 2018) under long-time head coach Bill Belichick and star quarterback Tom Brady. Fans in Westerly proudly root for the Patriots during every NFL season.

⚽ Soccer – New England Revolution (MLS)

• New England Revolution – The Revolution, also based in Foxborough, compete in Major League Soccer and have been one of the league’s original teams. Though they have yet to win an MLS Cup, they’ve reached the finals multiple times and made consistent playoff appearances. They remain a favorite among Rhode Island soccer fans.

🏒 Hockey – Boston Bruins (NHL)

• Boston Bruins – One of the NHL’s Original Six teams, the Bruins have a deep and passionate fan base in New England. They have won six Stanley Cups, with the most recent in 2011. Players like Bobby Orr, Ray Bourque, and Patrice Bergeron have made the team a symbol of toughness and tradition.

Westerly, Rhode Island is a charming coastal town with a rich history, beautiful beaches, and plenty of surprises. Whether you're a local or planning a visit, here are 10 fun facts about this seaside gem:

1. Historic Roots – Westerly was founded back in 1669, making it one of the oldest towns in Rhode Island.
2. Beach Lover’s Dream – Westerly is known for its stunning beaches like Misquamicut State Beach and Watch Hill Beach, attracting visitors all summer long.
3. Taylor Swift’s Summer Spot – International pop star Taylor Swift owns a mansion in Watch Hill, a village in Westerly, and has been spotted there during the summer months.
4. Granite Legacy – In the 1800s, Westerly was famous for its high-quality granite, used in landmarks across the country.
5. A Star Theater – The historic Westerly Armory and the United Theatre host a range of arts performances and community events.
6. Block Island Views – On a clear day, you can see all the way to Block Island from the beaches of Westerly.
7. Flying Horses – The Watch Hill Flying Horses Carousel, built in the 1870s, is the oldest continuously operating carousel in the U.S.
8. Songbird Central – Westerly lies on the Atlantic Flyway, a major route for migrating birds, making it a favorite for birdwatchers.
9. Weather Wonders – Despite being a coastal town, Westerly enjoys relatively moderate winters compared to other parts of Rhode Island.
10. Seasonal Charm – Summer brings bustling beaches and festivals, fall features colorful foliage, and winter transforms Westerly into a quiet coastal haven.