Kent County, RI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
171,456
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$94,345/yr
3.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
76,529
0.3% year-over-year change

Kent County population

How many people live in Kent County

Kent County is home to 171,456 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Kent County locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
171,456
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
83,825
Female
51.1%
87,631
Value Percent YoY change
Male 83,825 48.9% 0.5%
Female 87,631 51.1% 0.4%
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 Kent County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.7% are children under 15, then 10.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.7% of the population, while another 27.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.7%
15 to 24
10.3%
25 to 44
26.7%
45 to 64
27.9%
Over 65
20.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 25,209 14.7% -1.1%
15 to 24 17,608 10.3% -0.6%
25 to 44 45,788 26.7% 1.6%
45 to 64 47,834 27.9% -1.1%
Over 65 35,017 20.4% 3.0%
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 Kent County, 91.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 85.2% of locals are Caucasian, 2.1% are African American and 3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.5%
Non-citizens
3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 156,872 91.5% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 9,443 5.5% 2.5%
Non-citizens 5,141 3% 7.4%
Racial breakdown
White
85.2%
Black or African American
2.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.2%
Other
2.3%
Value Percent
White 146,114 85.2%
Black or African American 3,552 2.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 451 0.3%
Asian 5,056 3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 91 0%
Two or more races 12,273 7.2%
Other 3,919 2.3%

Households in Kent County

A peek inside Kent County households

Kent County has 72,839 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63% are families, while the remaining 37% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
72,839
0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
26,928
Family households
45,911
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 26,928 37% -0.2%
Family households 45,911 63% 0.3%
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 Kent County

The housing landscape of Kent County

Kent County's housing consists of 76,529 units, with 67.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.2% 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 1.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
76,529
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 51,365 67.1%
1 unit, attached 3,175 4.2%
2 units 4,543 5.9%
3 or 4 units 3,372 4.4%
5 to 9 units 2,847 3.7%
10 to 19 units 3,163 4.1%
20 to 49 units 2,538 3.3%
50 or more units 4,267 5.6%
Mobile home 1,227 1.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 32 0%
Homes built since 2020
574
154.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kent County

In Kent County, the median construction year is 1967. About 19.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 15,217 19.9% -5.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 4,660 6.1% -6.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 11,899 15.6% 2.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 9,512 12.4% -0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 11,246 14.7% 0.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 10,374 13.6% 4.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,795 8.9% 0.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,047 5.3% -0.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,205 2.9% 12.5%
Built in 2020 or later 574 0.8% 154.0%
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.

Kent County occupancy rates

Out of the 72,839 occupied housing units in Kent County, 73.1% are owner-occupied, while 26.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
72,839
0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
19,608
Owner occupied
53,231
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 19,608 26.9% -3.2%
Owner occupied 53,231 73.1% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
4.8%
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.

Kent County housing costs

Housing costs in Kent County come to a median of $1,632 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,327.

Median housing costs per month
$1,632/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 Kent County
$1,327/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 Kent County

Kent County education at a glance

About 33.9% of the population in Kent County went to high school, while 20.7% pursued college studies. Another 10% earned an associate degree and 20.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,529 2.5% 1.5%
High school diploma 47,631 33.9% 0.3%
College diploma 29,037 20.7% -0.2%
Associate degree 14,019 10% 0.7%
Bachelor's degree 28,840 20.5% 0.8%
Graduate degree 17,481 12.4% 4.0%
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 Kent County

How much people earn in Kent County

The average annual household income in Kent County was $119,389 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $94,345, reflecting a +3.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kent County
$119,389/year
3.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kent County
$94,345/year
3.4% year-over-year change

Kent County income by age

In Kent County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $111,484. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $113,885 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $75,250, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $62,190 in earnings. Overall, 92.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $75,250 22.5%
25 - 44 $111,484 6.6%
45 - 64 $113,885 2.7%
Over 65 $62,190 3.6%
Above poverty level
155,835
Below poverty level
12,630
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 155,835 92.5% 0.4%
Below poverty level 12,630 7.5% 1.3%

Employment in Kent County

Workforce and job types in Kent County

The job market in Kent County is powered by 91,352 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.6% run their own businesses, 66.8% are employed by private companies, and 13.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
91,352
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
74,234
Blue collar
17,118
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 74,234 81.3% 0.7%
Blue collar 17,118 18.7% -0.4%
Employer type
Self employees
8.6%
Private companies
66.8%
Governmental workers
13.4%
Not for profit companies
11.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 7,860 8.6% 5.8%
Private companies 60,974 66.8% 0.1%
Governmental workers 12,238 13.4% -1.4%
Not for profit companies 10,280 11.2% 1.5%
Unemployment rate
4.7%
1.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kent County stands at 4.7%, 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 Kent County

How people get around in Kent County

In Kent County, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
25 min
-0.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 76,402 85.4% 0.0%
Taxicab 216 0.2% 45.0%
Bus or trolleybus 518 0.6% -5.0%
Subway or elevated 5 0% N/A
Railroad 154 0.2% -39.6%
Ferryboat 21 0% -59.6%
Motorcycle 64 0.1% -16.9%
Bicycle 34 0% -5.6%
Walk 622 0.7% -33.8%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Kent County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
02816 33,298 13,651 $101,431 $117,723
02817 6,647 2,514 $135,625 $155,249
02818 19,786 8,251 $139,217 $196,386
02827 2,469 831 $152,305 $148,555
02886 31,293 13,154 $92,047 $110,858
02888 19,134 8,574 $91,867 $103,552
02889 27,516 11,480 $83,946 $106,230
02893 31,173 14,361 $77,608 $96,377

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FAQs about Kent County demographics 

What is the total population of Kent County?

Kent County has a total population of 171,456 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 +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Kent County?

The gender ratio in Kent County is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (83,825 residents)
  • 51.1% females (87,631 residents)

What is the median age in Kent County?

The median age in Kent County is 43.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Kent County?

The age distribution in Kent County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.7% (25,209 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.3% (17,608 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.7% (45,788 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.9% (47,834 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.4% (35,017 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kent County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kent County is as follows:
  • White: 85.2% (146,114 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.1% (3,552 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (451 residents)
  • Asian: 3% (5,056 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (91 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.2% (12,273 residents)
  • Other: 2.3% (3,919 residents)

What percentage of the population in Kent County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.5% of the population in Kent County.

How many housing units are there in Kent County?

There are 76,529 housing units in Kent County, 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 Kent County and what is the average household size?

Kent County has a total of 72,839 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kent County?

Kent County has a median household income of $94,345, representing a +3.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Kent County?

The employment rate is 95.3% in Kent County, with a workforce of 91,352 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.3% (74,234 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.7% (17,118 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.6% (7,860 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.8% (60,974 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.4% (12,238 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.2% (10,280 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