Introduction: Rhode Island Download PDF
In the early years of its history, much of Rhode Island’s economic activities revolved around the manufacture of textiles, jewelry and silverware. The nation’s first successful water-powered textile mill is located in the city of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, which is commonly referred to as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution in America.
The past few decades have seen a shift in the state’s economy from manufacturing to services. Jobs in finance, insurance, and real estate have grown steadily, while the manufacturing sector has lost over 30% of its workforce over the past ten years. Despite the decline, manufacturing is still one of Rhode Island’s top three industries along with health services and tourism. Tourists to the state are attracted to the many beaches, recreational activities and historic sites. They contribute $1.4 billion dollars to the state economy every year.
Government
Symbols
State Seal: |
State Quarter: |
Time Zones:
| Standard Time | GMT-5 | |
| Daylight-Saving Time | GMT-4 | |
Statistics
- Per Capita Real GDP :
- $36,543
- Population:
- 1,050,790
- Percent of People Under Poverty Level:
- 12.3%
- Per Capita Personal Income:
- $37,388
- Percent of Population with a Bachelor's Degree:
- 17.9%
- Total Exports:
- $1,646,590,000
Top 5 Export Partner Countries
Canada
Mexico
United Kingdom
Hong Kong
China
Top 5 Export Merchandise
Chemicals Sales
Computers and Electronic Products Sales
Computers and Electronic Products Manufacturing
Machinery Manufacturing
Primary Metals Manufacturing
Major Cities
Cranston, Providence, Warwick
Major Airports
| Airport Name | City | |
| PVD | Theodore Francis Green State | Providence |
Main Ports:
Newport, Providence
Corporations
| Company | Fortune 1000 Rank: | Revenues ($millions) | Headquarter City |
| CVS/Caremark | 51 | 43,814 | Woonsocket |
| Textron | 194 | 12,591 | Providence |
| FM Global | 578 | 3,474 | Johnston |
| Hasbro | 626 | 3,152 | Pawtucket |
| Nortek | 810 | 2,181 | Providence |