Rhode Island is home to a diverse economy with a thriving industry that attracts homebuyers and renters alike. Whether you’re looking for a home for sale in Providence or an apartment in Newport, you’ll find opportunities near major employers. From healthcare to manufacturing, the state’s economy is built on innovation and tradition. Rhode Island’s major industries provide a competitive job market, making it an attractive option for people relocating to Rhode Island. Its small, close-knit community provides an excellent balance between professional growth and personal lifestyle.
Rhode Island Overview: Home Prices, Income, and Employment
Top Employers in Rhode Island
Lifespan Health System: 15,000 employees Care New England Health System: 7,500 employees Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence: 7,500 employees CVS Health Corporation: 7,500 employees Brown University: 4,800 employees
Rhode Island’s 10 Major Industries
1. Medical care and social assistance
Major Employers: Lifespan Health System (Providence), Care New England (Providence), and CVS Health (Rhode Island locations).
Healthcare dominates Rhode Island’s economy, with major hospitals and medical networks driving employment. Lifespan Health System offers nursing, medical research, and administrative roles. Care New England employs behavioral health and women’s services professionals. Although CVS Health is not locally headquartered, it has numerous locations throughout the state and contributes to pharmacy and retail jobs. The healthcare sector attracts residents due to its stability and career advancement opportunities.
Considering moving to Rhode Island to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Providence or Warwick.
2. Manufacturing
Major employers: Electric Boat (located in North Kingstown), Toray Plastics (North Kingstown), and Teknor Apex (Pawtucket).
Manufacturing has developed into a high-tech industry in Rhode Island. Electric Boat focuses on shipbuilding, particularly submarines, and employs engineers and mechanics. Toray Plastics produces advanced materials and creates jobs in operations and quality control. Teknor Apex, a leader in the plastics industry, employs technicians and professionals. The state’s strategic location and manufacturing innovation make it an ideal location for professionals in this field.
Considering moving to Rhode Island to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in North Kingstown or Pawtucket.
3. Education
Major 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 offers a variety of career opportunities, from teaching to management positions. Brown University offers research and academic positions and attracts world-class talent. The University of Rhode Island supports STEM and liberal arts educators, and the Rhode Island School of Design is known for its creative fields and offers faculty and program coordinator roles. Proximity to these institutions is beneficial for those looking for excellent schools.
Considering moving to Rhode Island to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Providence or Kingston.
4. Professional and technical services
Major employers: Amgen (located in West Greenwich), IGT (located in Rhode Island), FM Global (located in Johnston).
This sector includes roles in engineering, biotechnology, and insurance. Amgen employs scientists and analysts and focuses on biotechnology research. IGT specializes in gaming technology and offers jobs in software development and marketing. FM Global provides risk management services and brings together engineers and financial experts. Rhode Island has a reputation as a center of innovation, attracting professionals from a variety of fields.
Considering moving to Rhode Island to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Johnston or Providence.
5. Finance and Insurance
Major Employers: Citizens Bank (Johnston), Amica Mutual Insurance (Lincoln), Bank of America (Rhode Island location).
Rhode Island’s financial industry offers careers in banking, investing, and insurance. Citizens Bank employs analysts and relationship managers at its corporate headquarters. Amica Mutual Insurance provides claims, underwriting and customer service roles, and Bank of America maintains regional offices and provides wealth management positions. This industry supports the long-term growth of professionals and companies alike.
Considering moving to Rhode Island to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Johnston or Lincoln.
6. Tourism and hospitality
Major Employers: Ocean House (Watch Hill), Newport Restaurant Group (Warwick), Bally’s Twin River Casino Resort (Lincoln).
Rhode Island has a thriving tourism industry, with opportunities in hotel management, event planning, culinary arts, and more. The industry generated more than $5.6 billion in 2023. Ocean House employs hospitality professionals in its luxury accommodations. Bally’s Twin River Casino offers entertainment and gaming operations positions. Visitors and residents can enjoy the state’s beautiful coastline while taking advantage of sightseeing opportunities.
Considering moving to Rhode Island to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Warwick or Lincoln.
7. Retail industry
Major Employers: Ocean State Job Lot (North Kingstown), Stop & Shop (Rhode Island stores).
Rhode Island’s retail industry offers a variety of career options, from management to customer service. Ocean State Job Lot’s corporate headquarters offers corporate and warehouse jobs. Stop & Shop employs individuals in the grocery retail and logistics industry. Retail is a major contributor to Rhode Island’s accessible, community-oriented economy.
Considering moving to Rhode Island to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in North Kingstown or Cranston.
8. Government and Administration
Major Employers: State of Rhode Island (Providence), U.S. Navy (Newport), City of Warwick (Warwick).
Government roles in Rhode Island include public policy, law enforcement, and municipal services. Rhode Island is hiring in a variety of sectors, including transportation and education. The U.S. Navy is based in Newport and offers both civilian and military careers. Warwick offers opportunities for local governance and community programs, providing stability and diversity in our industry.
Considering moving to Rhode Island to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Warwick or Providence.
9. Art and Design
Major Employers: Trinity Repertory Company (Providence), WaterFire (Providence), AS220 (Providence).
Rhode Island’s vibrant arts scene creates roles in performance, design, and event production. Trinity Repertory Company employs actors and production staff. WaterFire hires coordinators for large-scale art installations. AS220 provides opportunities for creative programming and community involvement. State arts support brings together professionals who value creativity and collaboration.
Considering moving to Rhode Island to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Providence or Pawtucket.
10. Agriculture and Aquaculture
Major Employers: Matunuck Oyster Bar (Wakefield), Rhode Island Nursery and Landscape Association (Rhode Island location), Perry Raso Aquaculture (South Kingstown).
Agriculture and aquaculture contribute to Rhode Island’s local food and economy. Matunuck Oyster Bar offers a unique combination of farming and restaurant operations. Perry Raso Aquaculture employs marine biologists and farmers and specializes in sustainable seafood. This industry is attractive to individuals seeking work in a sustainable, community-based field.
Considering moving to Rhode Island to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Wakefield or Westerly.
