Rhode Island demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,101,801
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$87,796/yr
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
485,932
0.3% year-over-year change

Rhode Island population

How many people live in Rhode Island

Rhode Island is home to 1,101,801 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.1% of Rhode Island locals are male, and 50.9% are female.

Total population
1,101,801
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.1%
540,637
Female
50.9%
561,164
Value Percent YoY change
Male 540,637 49.1% 0.6%
Female 561,164 50.9% 0.5%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Rhode Island is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.4% are children under 15, then 13.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.6% of the population, while another 25.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.4%
15 to 24
13.5%
25 to 44
26.6%
45 to 64
25.9%
Over 65
18.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 169,405 15.4% -0.6%
15 to 24 148,595 13.5% 0.1%
25 to 44 292,630 26.6% 1.4%
45 to 64 284,940 25.9% -1.1%
Over 65 206,231 18.7% 3.2%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Rhode Island, 82% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 70.4% of locals are Caucasian, 5.6% are African American and 3.5% have Asian roots. Another 0.5% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 7.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 12.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
82%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11%
Non-citizens
7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 903,646 82% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 121,042 11% 4.4%
Non-citizens 77,113 7% 4.2%
Racial breakdown
White
70.4%
Black or African American
5.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
3.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
12.2%
Other
7.8%
Value Percent
White 775,483 70.4%
Black or African American 61,142 5.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5,430 0.5%
Asian 38,862 3.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 844 0.1%
Two or more races 133,874 12.2%
Other 86,166 7.8%

Households in Rhode Island

A peek inside Rhode Island households

Rhode Island has 441,570 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.3% are families, while the remaining 38.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
441,570
1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
171,047
Family households
270,523
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 171,047 38.7% 2.1%
Family households 270,523 61.3% 0.4%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Rhode Island

The housing landscape of Rhode Island

Rhode Island's housing consists of 485,932 units, with 55.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
485,932
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 270,814 55.7%
1 unit, attached 19,478 4%
2 units 50,699 10.4%
3 or 4 units 56,576 11.6%
5 to 9 units 23,511 4.8%
10 to 19 units 16,356 3.4%
20 to 49 units 14,149 2.9%
50 or more units 29,947 6.2%
Mobile home 4,259 0.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 143 0%
Homes built since 2020
3,536
64.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, the median construction year is 1962. About 30.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 146,414 30.1% -0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 30,096 6.2% -2.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 57,699 11.9% -2.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 52,520 10.8% 0.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 57,750 11.9% 1.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 56,422 11.6% 1.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 33,815 7% -0.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 29,642 6.1% 0.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 18,038 3.7% 14.0%
Built in 2020 or later 3,536 0.7% 64.8%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Rhode Island occupancy rates

Out of the 441,570 occupied housing units in Rhode Island, 63.6% are owner-occupied, while 36.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
441,570
1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
160,568
Owner occupied
281,002
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 160,568 36.4% 0.0%
Owner occupied 281,002 63.6% 1.7%
Unoccupied housing units
9.1%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Rhode Island housing costs

Housing costs in Rhode Island come to a median of $1,587 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,342.

Median housing costs per month
$1,587/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Rhode Island
$1,342/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Rhode Island

Rhode Island education at a glance

About 33.2% of the population in Rhode Island went to high school, while 19.9% pursued college studies. Another 7.5% earned an associate degree and 21.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 39,337 4.4% 0.8%
High school diploma 296,859 33.2% 0.7%
College diploma 177,626 19.9% -1.3%
Associate degree 67,337 7.5% 0.2%
Bachelor's degree 190,817 21.3% 1.9%
Graduate degree 122,400 13.7% 3.1%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Rhode Island

How much people earn in Rhode Island

The average annual household income in Rhode Island was $115,075 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $87,796, reflecting a +1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Rhode Island
$115,075/year
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Rhode Island
$87,796/year
1.6% year-over-year change

Rhode Island income by age

In Rhode Island, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $96,582. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $106,166 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,927, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $61,049 in earnings. Overall, 88.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,927 9.7%
25 - 44 $96,582 3.9%
45 - 64 $106,166 1.0%
Over 65 $61,049 2.2%
Above poverty level
934,103
Below poverty level
117,109
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 934,103 88.9% 0.4%
Below poverty level 117,109 11.1% 3.0%

Employment in Rhode Island

Workforce and job types in Rhode Island

The job market in Rhode Island is powered by 559,823 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.1% run their own businesses, 65.5% are employed by private companies, and 13.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
559,823
0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
451,299
Blue collar
108,524
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 451,299 80.6% 0.5%
Blue collar 108,524 19.4% 1.4%
Employer type
Self employees
9.1%
Private companies
65.5%
Governmental workers
13.1%
Not for profit companies
12.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 50,876 9.1% 4.1%
Private companies 366,673 65.5% 0.5%
Governmental workers 73,355 13.1% -0.7%
Not for profit companies 68,919 12.3% 0.8%
Unemployment rate
5.8%
2.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Rhode Island stands at 5.8%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Rhode Island

How people get around in Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 80.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 438,501 80.2% -1.5%
Taxicab 1,738 0.3% 27.2%
Bus or trolleybus 6,520 1.2% -6.3%
Subway or elevated 169 0% N/A
Railroad 2,575 0.5% -10.3%
Ferryboat 64 0% -37.2%
Motorcycle 564 0.1% 18.2%
Bicycle 2,225 0.4% 27.0%
Walk 15,438 2.8% -0.7%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Rhode Island demographics 

What is the total population of Rhode Island?

Rhode Island has a total population of 1,101,801 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Rhode Island?

The gender ratio in Rhode Island is as follows:
  • 49.1% males (540,637 residents)
  • 50.9% females (561,164 residents)

What is the median age in Rhode Island?

The median age in Rhode Island is 40.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Rhode Island?

The age distribution in Rhode Island is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.4% (169,405 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.5% (148,595 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.6% (292,630 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.9% (284,940 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.7% (206,231 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Rhode Island?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Rhode Island is as follows:
  • White: 70.4% (775,483 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5.6% (61,142 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (5,430 residents)
  • Asian: 3.5% (38,862 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (844 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.2% (133,874 residents)
  • Other: 7.8% (86,166 residents)

What percentage of the population in Rhode Island are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 82% of the population in Rhode Island.

How many housing units are there in Rhode Island?

There are 485,932 housing units in Rhode Island, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Rhode Island and what is the average household size?

Rhode Island has a total of 441,570 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island has a median household income of $87,796, representing a +1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Rhode Island?

The employment rate is 94.2% in Rhode Island, with a workforce of 559,823 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.6% (451,299 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.4% (108,524 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.1% (50,876 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.5% (366,673 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.1% (73,355 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.3% (68,919 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025