List of Counties in Rhode Island
Rhode Island has 5 counties, the fewest of any state besides Delaware. The counties are Providence County, Kent County, Washington County, Newport County, and Bristol County. The largest by population is Providence County, which includes the state capital, Providence, and its surrounding areas. This county houses the majority of Rhode Island’s population and serves as the state’s economic and cultural hub. The other counties are smaller, both in terms of population and size, with many areas being rural or focused on tourism along the coastline.
List of All Counties in Rhode Island
- Bristol County, Rhode Island
- Kent County, Rhode Island
- Newport County, Rhode Island
- Providence County, Rhode Island
- Washington County, Rhode Island
Largest Counties in Rhode Island
1. Providence County
Overview
Providence County is the largest county in Rhode Island, covering 413 square miles in the northern part of the state. It is bordered by Massachusetts to the north and east, Connecticut to the west, and Kent County to the south. Established in 1703, Providence County was named after the city of Providence, which was founded by Roger Williams as a haven for religious freedom. The county is home to Rhode Island’s capital, Providence, which serves as a major cultural, economic, and educational hub. Historically, Providence County was a key area during the American Industrial Revolution, with manufacturing playing a significant role in its development. Today, the county’s economy is diverse, with higher education, healthcare, finance, and technology being important sectors.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 660,000
- County Seat: Providence
- Major Airports: T.F. Green Airport (located nearby in Warwick)
- Major Highways: Interstate 95, Interstate 195, U.S. Highway 6, U.S. Highway 44
2. Kent County
Overview
Kent County is the second-largest county in Rhode Island, covering 188 square miles in the central part of the state. It is bordered by Providence County to the north, Washington County to the south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. Established in 1750, the county was named after the county of Kent in England. Warwick, the county seat, is known for its historical significance, dating back to the 17th century. Today, Kent County’s economy is driven by retail, manufacturing, and services, with T.F. Green Airport serving as a major transportation hub. The county is also home to several waterfront communities and marinas, contributing to its tourism industry.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 170,000
- County Seat: Warwick
- Major Airports: T.F. Green Airport
- Major Highways: Interstate 95, U.S. Highway 1, Rhode Island Route 2
3. Washington County
Overview
Washington County, also known locally as “South County,” covers 333 square miles in the southwestern part of Rhode Island. It is bordered by Kent County to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the south, and Connecticut to the west. Established in 1729 and originally named King’s County, the county was renamed Washington County in 1781 in honor of George Washington. The county is known for its rural character, beautiful coastline, and popular beach towns such as Narragansett and Westerly. Tourism, agriculture, and fishing are important industries in Washington County, which has become a favorite destination for visitors seeking outdoor recreation. The University of Rhode Island, located in Kingston, is a major educational and cultural presence in the county.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 129,000
- County Seat: No official county seat (but South Kingstown houses many county functions)
- Major Airports: T.F. Green Airport (nearby in Warwick)
- Major Highways: U.S. Highway 1, Rhode Island Route 4, Rhode Island Route 138
4. Newport County
Overview
Newport County is located in the southeastern part of Rhode Island, covering 314 square miles. It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the south and east, and it includes several islands such as Aquidneck Island and Conanicut Island. Established in 1703, Newport County is named after the city of Newport, a historical seaport and a summer destination for the American elite during the Gilded Age. The county is known for its historic mansions, sailing culture, and vibrant tourism industry. Newport County’s economy relies heavily on tourism, hospitality, and maritime industries. The county also has a significant naval presence, with Naval Station Newport hosting the Naval War College and other important military facilities.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 85,000
- County Seat: No official county seat (Newport serves as the cultural and historical center)
- Major Airports: T.F. Green Airport (located nearby in Warwick)
- Major Highways: Rhode Island Route 138, Rhode Island Route 114, Rhode Island Route 24
5. Bristol County
Overview
Bristol County, the smallest of Rhode Island’s counties, covers 45 square miles and is located in the eastern part of the state. It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and is separated from Massachusetts by the Mount Hope Bay to the north. Established in 1747, the county was named after Bristol, England, reflecting the English origins of many of the early settlers. Bristol County is known for its rich colonial history and picturesque waterfront. The town of Bristol, home to the oldest continuous Fourth of July celebration in the United States, serves as a cultural and historical hub. Today, the economy of Bristol County is driven by maritime industries, education, and tourism. The county also houses Roger Williams University, a major educational institution.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 50,000
- County Seat: No official county seat (Bristol is the principal town)
- Major Airports: T.F. Green Airport (located nearby in Warwick)
- Major Highways: Rhode Island Route 114, Rhode Island Route 136, U.S. Highway 6 (nearby)