Rhode Island Demographics & Population 2026

Population Overview

Rhode Island has a total population of 1,095,371, making it a smaller state in the nation. The median age is 40.5 years, 5% higher the national median of 38.7 years.

Age Demographics

The median age in Rhode Island is 40.5 years. This is 5% higher than the state median of 38.7 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Rhode Island is $86,372. This is 10% higher than the state median of $78,538. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 10% higher. The poverty rate stands at 10.9%. This is 12% lower than the state poverty rate of 12.4%. The unemployment rate is 5.7%. This is 10% higher than the state rate of 5.2%. The median home value is $368,800. Housing costs are 22% higher than the state median of $303,400. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.3x. 63.2% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 3% lower than the state average of 65.0%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Rhode Island is White (non-Hispanic), making up 69.1% of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 17.1%. The Black or African American population (5.0%) is well below the state average of 12.0%.

Education

37.3% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 7% higher than the state rate of 35.0%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 89.5%. Notably, 15.1% of adults hold a graduate or professional degree, indicating a highly educated workforce.