Providence County, RI
657,288 residents · 410 sq mi · 1,605.2/sq mi · 5% rural
About Providence County
Providence County is the most populous county in the U.S. state of Rhode Island. As of the 2020 census, the county's population was 660,741, or 60.2% of the state's population. Providence County contains the city of Providence, the state capital of Rhode Island and the county's most populous city, with an estimated 190,934 residents in 2020. Providence County is included in the Providence metropolitan area, which in turn constitutes a portion of Greater Boston. As of 2010, the center of population in Rhode Island is located in Providence County, in the city of Cranston.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of urban and suburban environments, with a population density of 1,605.2 people per square mile, making it one of the most densely populated counties in the country. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 50.1°F and receives about 50.5 inches of rain annually, suitable for diverse crops in USDA zone 7b. However, the limited rural space (5%) may restrict opportunities for self-sufficient living, particularly for those seeking significant land for agriculture or livestock.
The county faces several natural hazards, with a disaster percentile of 94/100 indicating a high risk of events such as heat waves (97), riverine flooding (97), and hurricanes (92). The area also experiences cold waves (91) and earthquakes (89), which could pose challenges for homesteaders. Additionally, the median home price of $310,500 and property tax rate of 1.48% may be a financial burden for some, particularly those on a limited budget.
This county may suit individuals or families who prefer an urban lifestyle with access to amenities while still having some opportunities for gardening and small-scale homesteading. Those seeking extensive land and a more rural lifestyle may find it less accommodating. The high population density and associated costs could be dealbreakers for traditional homesteaders, while urban dwellers may appreciate the relative safety, given the low violence percentile of 1/100.