PEOPLE AND DEMOGRAPHICS

Our site contains a variety of maps, tables, and charts that describe the demographic conditions in Providence. Some of the key findings are listed below.

Population Increases
Providence is the second-largest city in New England with a population of 173,618 (Census 2000). The city grew by 8% between 1990-2000, the largest growth rate among large cities in New England. See Population Change by Neighborhood for a breakdown of growth patterns in the city.

Diversity
For the first time, Providence is a majority “minority” city, meaning that non-Hispanic White people make up less than 50% of the city's population. Ten neighborhoods in the city are more than 60% minority. See Racial and Ethnic Breakdown Chart and Racial and Ethnic Concentration Map.

Hispanic Growth
The Hispanic population in Providence grew by 27,000 in the 1990s – a 108% increase. Nearly every neighborhood had an increase in Hispanic population – with eight neighborhoods having an increase greater than 200%. See Change in Hispanic Population by Neighborhood.

Under 18 Population
The city’s under-18 population grew by 26% in the 1990s – 2.5 times faster than the entire state. This growth can be attributed to the increase in the overall Hispanic population. Nearly 20% of children under 18 in Providence are Hispanic. See Total Under 18 Population by Neighborhood and Hispanic Children Under 18 by Neighborhood.

Age Cohorts
20 to 24 year olds make up the largest age cohort in the city (21,766). This is due to the large influx of college students. See the Population Pyramids for more information about age cohorts in the city.

Elderly Population
The number of elderly (age 55 and older) living in Providence declined by 17% in the 1990s. White females make up the largest cohort of elderly (42%). A small percentage of elderly residents (6%) live in group quarters, e.g. nursing homes .This is a consistent with the national average. See Census Summary for Seniors.

For more information, see the Neighborhood Profiles People page.