Charlestown is located in Washington County (South Country) Rhode Island. Follow this link to more information on South County.

Charlestown is a rural town, with 7,800 people spread out over 24,000 acres according to the 2000 Census. Below there are links with detailed census information on Charlestown.

The town has two major regions. Areas south of Route 1 are coastal and tend to be dominated by higher density development. The areas north of Route 1 have low density development and large areas of protected openspace.

Charlestown defines itself in part by its rural character. The views from the road as one drives through the town are dominated by large areas of forest, and many farms. There are several small villages that make up pockets of traditional denser development within the largely undeveloped area.

As you read through this site, you will see pictures of Charlestown illustrating this town character. These pictures were taken by Justin Huxol.