Estimated 2004 population: 1,080,632

Change from 2000: +32,313

2004 housing units: 446,305

Housing units change from 2000-2004: +6,068

Top Rhode Island Cities

Coventry | Glocester | Newport | Providence | Westerly | Woonsocket

Rhode Island Economy

Rhode Island's traditional manufacturing economy has diversified and is now also based on services, trade (retail and wholesale), and finance. In spite of this, many of the products for which Rhode Island is famous are still being manufactured. These include jewelry, silverware, textiles, primary and fabricated metals, machinery, electrical equipment, and rubber and plastic items.

Tourism are gambling are also important. Agriculture is relatively unimportant to the economy. Most of the farmland is used for dairying and poultry raising, and the state is known for its Rhode Island Red chickens. Principal crops are nursery and greenhouse items.

Commercial fishing is an important but declining industry. Narragansett Bay abounds in shellfish; flounder and porgy are also caught. Navel facilities at Newport contribute to the state's income.

Rhode Island's coast is lined with resorts noted for their swimming and boating facilities, and windswept Block Island is a favorite vacation spot. Narragansett Bay is famous for its sailboats and yachts. The America's Cup yacht race has been held in Newport several times, beginning in 1930 and most recently in 1983. The state also has many historic attractions.

Top Rhode Island Attractions

Cliff Walk, Newport

The Breakers, Newport

Rough Point, Newport

Touro Synagogue, Newport

WaterFire, Providence

International Tennis Hall of Fame, Newport

Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art, Providence

Marble House, Newport

Roger Williams Park Zoo, Providence

Beechwood Mansion, Newport