Rhode Island boasts a diverse economy with flourishing industries that appeal to both homebuyers and renters. Whether you’re looking at properties for sale in Providence or rentals in Newport, you’ll discover opportunities near major employers. From healthcare to manufacturing, the state’s economy thrives on innovation and tradition. Rhode Island’s key industries provide competitive job markets, making it an attractive destination for individuals relocating to the state. Its compact size and close-knit communities offer a perfect blend of professional advancement and quality of life.
Rhode Island Overview: Housing prices, income, and employment
Leading Employers in Rhode Island
- Lifespan Health System: 15,000 employees
- Care New England Health System: 7,500 employees
- Roman Catholic Diosese of Providence: 7,500 employees
- CVS Health Corporation: 7,500 employees
- Brown University: 4,800 employees
Top 10 Industries in Rhode Island
1. Healthcare and Social Assistance
Key Employers: Lifespan Health System (Providence), Care New England (Providence), CVS Health (various locations in Rhode Island).
Healthcare is a dominant sector in Rhode Island, with major hospitals and healthcare networks driving employment growth. Lifespan Health System offers opportunities in nursing, medical research, and administration. Care New England hires professionals in behavioral health and women’s services. CVS Health, although not locally headquartered, operates numerous outlets across the state, creating jobs in pharmacy and retail. The healthcare industry’s stability and career advancement prospects attract residents.
Considering a move to Rhode Island for a healthcare job? Explore properties for sale in Providence or Warwick.
2. Manufacturing
Key Employers: Electric Boat (North Kingstown), Toray Plastics (North Kingstown), Teknor Apex (Pawtucket).
Manufacturing has evolved into a high-tech industry in Rhode Island. Electric Boat specializes in shipbuilding, particularly submarines, employing engineers and machinists. Toray Plastics produces advanced materials, creating jobs in operations and quality control. Teknor Apex, a leader in plastics, hires technicians and specialists. Rhode Island’s strategic location and innovation in manufacturing make it a desirable destination for professionals in this field.
Thinking about moving to Rhode Island for a manufacturing job? Check out properties for sale in North Kingstown or Pawtucket.
3. Education
Key Employers: Brown University (Providence), University of Rhode Island (Kingston), Rhode Island School of Design (Providence).
The education sector, which generates over $10 billion in revenue, also provides diverse career opportunities, ranging from teaching to administrative roles. Brown University offers research and academic positions, attracting global talent. The University of Rhode Island supports educators in STEM and liberal arts, while Rhode Island School of Design is renowned for its creative disciplines, offering roles for faculty and program coordinators. Proximity to these institutions benefits anyone looking for excellent schools.
Thinking about moving to Rhode Island for a job in education? Consider properties for sale in Providence or Kingston.
4. Professional and Technical Services
Key Employers: Amgen (West Greenwich), IGT (various locations in Rhode Island), FM Global (Johnston).
This sector encompasses engineering, biotechnology, and insurance roles. Amgen focuses on biotech research, employing scientists and analysts. IGT specializes in gaming technology, providing jobs in software development and marketing. FM Global offers risk management services, attracting engineers and financial experts. Rhode Island’s reputation as an innovation hub draws professionals from diverse backgrounds.
Thinking about moving to Rhode Island for a job in this sector? Explore properties for sale in Johnston or Providence.
5. Finance and Insurance
Key Employers: Citizens Bank (Johnston), Amica Mutual Insurance (Lincoln), Bank of America (various locations in Rhode Island).
Rhode Island’s finance industry offers careers in banking, investment, and insurance. Citizens Bank employs analysts and relationship managers at its headquarters. Amica Mutual Insurance provides roles in claims, underwriting, and customer service, while Bank of America maintains regional offices, offering positions in wealth management. This industry supports long-term growth for professionals and businesses alike.
Considering a move to Rhode Island for a job in finance or insurance? Check out properties for sale in Johnston or Lincoln.
6. Tourism and Hospitality
Key Employers: Ocean House (Watch Hill), Newport Restaurant Group (Warwick), Bally’s Twin River Casino Resort (Lincoln).
Tourism is thriving in Rhode Island, offering opportunities in hotel management, event planning, and culinary arts. The industry generated over $5.6 billion in 2023. Ocean House employs hospitality professionals in luxury accommodations. Bally’s Twin River Casino offers positions in entertainment and gaming operations. Visitors and residents can enjoy Rhode Island’s scenic coastline while taking advantage of tourism opportunities.
Thinking about moving to Rhode Island for a job in tourism or hospitality? Explore properties for sale in Warwick or Lincoln.
7. Retail Trade
Key Employers: Ocean State Job Lot (North Kingstown), Stop & Shop (various locations in Rhode Island).
Retail offers a range of career options in Rhode Island, from management to customer service. Ocean State Job Lot’s headquarters provides corporate and warehouse jobs. Stop & Shop hires individuals in grocery retail and logistics. Retail plays a significant role in Rhode Island’s accessible and community-focused economy.
Considering a move to Rhode Island for a job in retail? Check out properties for sale in North Kingstown or Cranston.
8. Government and Public Administration
Key Employers: State of Rhode Island (Providence), U.S. Navy (Newport), City of Warwick (Warwick).
Government roles in Rhode Island encompass public policy, law enforcement, and municipal services. The State of Rhode Island hires for various departments, including transportation and education. The U.S. Navy operates out of Newport, offering civilian and military careers. Warwick provides opportunities in local governance and community programs, making the industry stable and diverse.
Thinking about moving to Rhode Island for a job in government or public administration? Explore properties for sale in Warwick or Providence.
9. Arts and Design
Key Employers: Trinity Repertory Company (Providence), WaterFire (Providence), AS220 (Providence).
Rhode Island’s dynamic arts scene offers roles in performance, design, and event production. Trinity Repertory Company hires actors and production staff. WaterFire employs coordinators for its artistic installations. AS220 provides opportunities in creative programming and community engagement. The state’s support for the arts attracts professionals who value creativity and collaboration.
Considering a move to Rhode Island for a job in arts and design? Check out properties for sale in Providence or Pawtucket.
10. Agriculture and Aquaculture
Key Employers: Matunuck Oyster Bar (Wakefield), Rhode Island Nursery and Landscape Association (various locations in Rhode Island), Perry Raso Aquaculture (South Kingstown).
Agriculture and aquaculture play a vital role in Rhode Island’s local food industry and economy. Matunuck Oyster Bar combines farming with restaurant operations, offering unique roles. Perry Raso Aquaculture specializes in sustainable seafood, employing marine biologists and farmers. The industry appeals to individuals seeking work in sustainable and community-oriented fields.
Thinking about moving to Rhode Island for a job in agriculture or aquaculture? Explore properties for sale in Wakefield or Westerly.