Providence, RI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
191,767
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,119/yr
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
79,423
0.2% year-over-year change

Providence population

How many people live in Providence

Providence is home to 191,767 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.1% of Providence locals are male, and 50.9% are female.

Total population
191,767
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.1%
94,181
Female
50.9%
97,586
Value Percent YoY change
Male 94,181 49.1% 1.1%
Female 97,586 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 Providence is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.6% are children under 15, then 20.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.1% of the population, while another 21.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.6%
15 to 24
20.1%
25 to 44
30.1%
45 to 64
21.6%
Over 65
11.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 31,781 16.6% 0.0%
15 to 24 38,570 20.1% 1.2%
25 to 44 57,749 30.1% 1.6%
45 to 64 41,462 21.6% -0.3%
Over 65 22,205 11.6% 1.4%
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, 61.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 20.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 17.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 37.4% of locals are Caucasian, 11.5% are African American and 6.2% have Asian roots. Another 1.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 22.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 21.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
61.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
20.5%
Non-citizens
17.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 118,295 61.7% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 39,327 20.5% 6.7%
Non-citizens 34,145 17.8% 1.2%
Racial breakdown
White
37.4%
Black or African American
11.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
6.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
21.5%
Other
22.1%
Value Percent
White 71,626 37.4%
Black or African American 22,074 11.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,267 1.2%
Asian 11,969 6.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 254 0.1%
Two or more races 41,275 21.5%
Other 42,302 22.1%

Households in Providence

A peek inside Providence households

Providence has 71,497 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.4% are families, while the remaining 46.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
71,497
1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
33,308
Family households
38,189
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 33,308 46.6% 2.6%
Family households 38,189 53.4% 0.9%
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

The housing landscape of Providence

Providence's housing consists of 79,423 units, with 26.1% 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
79,423
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 20,741 26.1%
1 unit, attached 3,128 3.9%
2 units 15,413 19.4%
3 or 4 units 20,142 25.4%
5 to 9 units 5,294 6.7%
10 to 19 units 2,531 3.2%
20 to 49 units 2,593 3.3%
50 or more units 9,422 11.9%
Mobile home 159 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
657
134.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Providence

In Providence, the median construction year is 1938. About 54.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.6% 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 43,308 54.5% -1.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 4,787 6% -3.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,517 7% -6.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,889 6.2% 14.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 6,256 7.9% 1.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,905 6.2% 10.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,076 3.9% -14.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,928 5% 1.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,100 2.6% 22.4%
Built in 2020 or later 657 0.8% 134.6%
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 71,497 occupied housing units in Providence, 41.4% are owner-occupied, while 58.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
71,497
1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
41,896
Owner occupied
29,601
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 41,896 58.6% 1.3%
Owner occupied 29,601 41.4% 2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
10.0%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in Providence come to a median of $1,553 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,408.

Median housing costs per month
$1,553/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
$1,408/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

Providence education at a glance

About 37.2% of the population in Providence went to high school, while 20% pursued college studies. Another 4.5% earned an associate degree and 16.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 11,894 7.8% -2.2%
High school diploma 57,087 37.2% 2.6%
College diploma 30,686 20% -1.7%
Associate degree 6,882 4.5% 0.8%
Bachelor's degree 25,935 16.9% 1.0%
Graduate degree 20,750 13.5% 2.7%
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

How much people earn in Providence

The average annual household income in Providence was $95,427 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,119, reflecting a +2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Providence
$95,427/year
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Providence
$68,119/year
2.0% year-over-year change

Providence income by age

In Providence, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $73,870. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $74,053 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $57,366, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,970 in earnings. Overall, 79.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $57,366 17.1%
25 - 44 $73,870 0.6%
45 - 64 $74,053 2.6%
Over 65 $39,970 1.5%
Above poverty level
139,037
Below poverty level
36,411
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 139,037 79.2% 0.4%
Below poverty level 36,411 20.8% 5.3%

Average renter income in Providence

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Providence, their median household income was $42,933 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$42,933
Rent-to-income ratio
39.4%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Providence

Workforce and job types in Providence

The job market in Providence is powered by 93,381 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.8% run their own businesses, 63.7% are employed by private companies, and 9.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
93,381
0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
72,418
Blue collar
20,963
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 72,418 77.6% -0.3%
Blue collar 20,963 22.4% 2.6%
Employer type
Self employees
9.8%
Private companies
63.7%
Governmental workers
9.3%
Not for profit companies
17.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 9,143 9.8% 5.9%
Private companies 59,492 63.7% 0.2%
Governmental workers 8,665 9.3% 0.5%
Not for profit companies 16,081 17.2% -2.1%
Unemployment rate
8.2%
11.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Providence stands at 8.2%, 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

How people get around in Providence

Commuting methods vary: 70.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 7.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 63,325 70.5% -2.4%
Taxicab 1,047 1.2% 17.0%
Bus or trolleybus 2,683 3% -3.5%
Subway or elevated 6 0% N/A
Railroad 995 1.1% 1.0%
Ferryboat 16 0% -5.9%
Motorcycle 160 0.2% 10.3%
Bicycle 910 1% 29.1%
Walk 6,541 7.3% 0.2%
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 by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
02903 11,836 5,996 $64,476 $102,397
02904 32,531 13,686 $67,003 $89,951
02905 25,012 9,811 $62,908 $91,804
02906 26,380 12,517 $103,050 $155,139
02907 31,461 10,982 $52,485 $68,958
02908 39,500 14,756 $73,081 $95,665
02909 46,014 16,084 $64,649 $79,167
02912 4,836 24 $0 $0

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FAQs about Providence demographics 

What is the total population of Providence?

Providence has a total population of 191,767 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Providence?

The gender ratio in Providence is as follows:
  • 49.1% males (94,181 residents)
  • 50.9% females (97,586 residents)

What is the median age in Providence?

The median age in Providence is 32.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Providence?

The age distribution in Providence is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.6% (31,781 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 20.1% (38,570 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.1% (57,749 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.6% (41,462 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.6% (22,205 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Providence?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Providence is as follows:
  • White: 37.4% (71,626 residents)
  • Black or African American: 11.5% (22,074 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (2,267 residents)
  • Asian: 6.2% (11,969 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (254 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 21.5% (41,275 residents)
  • Other: 22.1% (42,302 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 61.7% of the population in Providence.

How many housing units are there in Providence?

There are 79,423 housing units in Providence, 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 and what is the average household size?

Providence has a total of 71,497 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Providence?

Providence has a median household income of $68,119, representing a +2.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 91.8% in Providence, with a workforce of 93,381 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.6% (72,418 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.4% (20,963 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.8% (9,143 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.7% (59,492 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.3% (8,665 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 17.2% (16,081 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