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

Total population
664,854
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$78,787/yr
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
277,740
0.2% year-over-year change

Providence County population

How many people live in Providence County

Providence County is home to 664,854 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.1% of Providence County locals are male, and 50.9% are female.

Total population
664,854
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.1%
326,715
Female
50.9%
338,139
Value Percent YoY change
Male 326,715 49.1% 0.9%
Female 338,139 50.9% 0.9%
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 Providence County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.6% are children under 15, then 13.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.5% of the population, while another 24.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
38
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.6%
15 to 24
13.7%
25 to 44
28.5%
45 to 64
24.9%
Over 65
16.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 110,163 16.6% -0.0%
15 to 24 91,139 13.7% 0.8%
25 to 44 189,758 28.5% 1.7%
45 to 64 165,282 24.9% -0.7%
Over 65 108,512 16.3% 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 Providence County, 75.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 14.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 59.6% of locals are Caucasian, 7.9% are African American and 4.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 11.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 15.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
75.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
14.4%
Non-citizens
9.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 503,049 75.7% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 95,838 14.4% 5.5%
Non-citizens 65,967 9.9% 4.3%
Racial breakdown
White
59.6%
Black or African American
7.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
4.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
15.9%
Other
11.6%
Value Percent
White 396,508 59.6%
Black or African American 52,364 7.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 4,298 0.6%
Asian 28,206 4.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 593 0.1%
Two or more races 105,678 15.9%
Other 77,207 11.6%

Households in Providence County

A peek inside Providence County households

Providence County has 259,210 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60% are families, while the remaining 40% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
259,210
1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
103,756
Family households
155,454
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 103,756 40% 2.3%
Family households 155,454 60% 0.2%
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 Providence County

The housing landscape of Providence County

Providence County's housing consists of 277,740 units, with 45.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.9% 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 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
277,740
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 126,314 45.5%
1 unit, attached 10,887 3.9%
2 units 36,687 13.2%
3 or 4 units 45,274 16.3%
5 to 9 units 16,423 5.9%
10 to 19 units 9,880 3.6%
20 to 49 units 8,654 3.1%
50 or more units 22,349 8%
Mobile home 1,259 0.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 13 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,800
63.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Providence County

In Providence County, the median construction year is 1956. About 35.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 99,748 35.9% -0.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 18,659 6.7% -3.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 32,051 11.5% -4.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 28,849 10.4% 2.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 30,143 10.8% 3.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 27,610 9.9% 0.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 15,292 5.5% -2.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 14,311 5.2% -0.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 9,277 3.3% 15.8%
Built in 2020 or later 1,800 0.6% 63.3%
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.

Providence County occupancy rates

Out of the 259,210 occupied housing units in Providence County, 56.9% are owner-occupied, while 43.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
259,210
1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
111,642
Owner occupied
147,568
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 111,642 43.1% 0.3%
Owner occupied 147,568 56.9% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
6.7%
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.

Providence County housing costs

Housing costs in Providence County come to a median of $1,511 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,312.

Median housing costs per month
$1,511/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 Providence County
$1,312/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 Providence County

Providence County education at a glance

About 36.8% of the population in Providence County went to high school, while 19.8% pursued college studies. Another 7.2% earned an associate degree and 18.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 32,777 6.2% 1.4%
High school diploma 195,311 36.8% 1.9%
College diploma 105,182 19.8% -1.4%
Associate degree 38,045 7.2% 0.0%
Bachelor's degree 99,940 18.8% 2.0%
Graduate degree 59,659 11.2% 2.0%
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 Providence County

How much people earn in Providence County

The average annual household income in Providence County was $103,330 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $78,787, reflecting a +0.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Providence County
$103,330/year
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Providence County
$78,787/year
0.8% year-over-year change

Providence County income by age

In Providence County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $87,540. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $94,064 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,231, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,686 in earnings. Overall, 86.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,231 9.7%
25 - 44 $87,540 2.3%
45 - 64 $94,064 0.1%
Over 65 $50,686 2.7%
Above poverty level
547,541
Below poverty level
84,529
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 547,541 86.6% 0.6%
Below poverty level 84,529 13.4% 3.9%

Employment in Providence County

Workforce and job types in Providence County

The job market in Providence County is powered by 334,642 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.3% run their own businesses, 66.9% are employed by private companies, and 11.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
334,642
1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
261,706
Blue collar
72,936
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 261,706 78.2% 0.7%
Blue collar 72,936 21.8% 2.7%
Employer type
Self employees
8.3%
Private companies
66.9%
Governmental workers
11.9%
Not for profit companies
12.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 27,625 8.3% 6.5%
Private companies 223,952 66.9% 0.8%
Governmental workers 39,764 11.9% -0.3%
Not for profit companies 43,301 12.9% 0.6%
Unemployment rate
6.6%
5.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Providence County stands at 6.6%, 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 Providence County

How people get around in Providence County

In Providence County, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 79.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.1% 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
1.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 257,066 79.5% -1.4%
Taxicab 1,413 0.4% 34.6%
Bus or trolleybus 5,355 1.7% -4.4%
Subway or elevated 71 0% N/A
Railroad 1,830 0.6% -13.4%
Ferryboat 28 0% -12.5%
Motorcycle 339 0.1% 5.0%
Bicycle 1,286 0.4% 19.7%
Walk 9,904 3.1% 2.3%
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 Providence County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
02814 7,587 2,980 $110,764 $113,830
02815 161 66 $126,071 $113,738
02825 6,107 1,864 $112,593 $150,682
02826 831 391 $78,843 $117,249
02828 7,023 2,994 $97,196 $120,842
02830 6,637 2,630 $121,111 $119,682
02831 3,483 1,309 $137,181 $174,373
02838 3,740 1,310 $97,273 $150,079
02839 1,525 603 $97,292 $143,258
02802 677 378 $116,159 $108,290

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FAQs about Providence County demographics 

What is the total population of Providence County?

Providence County has a total population of 664,854 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Providence County?

The gender ratio in Providence County is as follows:
  • 49.1% males (326,715 residents)
  • 50.9% females (338,139 residents)

What is the median age in Providence County?

The median age in Providence County is 38.

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

The age distribution in Providence County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.6% (110,163 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.7% (91,139 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.5% (189,758 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.9% (165,282 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.3% (108,512 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Providence County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Providence County is as follows:
  • White: 59.6% (396,508 residents)
  • Black or African American: 7.9% (52,364 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (4,298 residents)
  • Asian: 4.2% (28,206 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (593 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15.9% (105,678 residents)
  • Other: 11.6% (77,207 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 75.7% of the population in Providence County.

How many housing units are there in Providence County?

There are 277,740 housing units in Providence County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Providence County and what is the average household size?

Providence County has a total of 259,210 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Providence County?

Providence County has a median household income of $78,787, representing a +0.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.4% in Providence County, with a workforce of 334,642 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.2% (261,706 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.8% (72,936 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.3% (27,625 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.9% (223,952 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.9% (39,764 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.9% (43,301 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