Rhode Island Counties by Population (2026)

There are 5 counties in Rhode Island.

Providence County is the largest county in the state, with a population of 681,684. The most recent census shows that its population has increased by 0.03% since the previous census.

A number of other Rhode Island counties also boast relatively large populations for their state, though not able to match the density of Providence County:

• Kent County : 174,712
• Washington County : 129,632

Rhode Island Counties with the Fewest Residents

The smallest county in Rhode Island is Bristol County , with a population of just 49,854. This total represents a decrease of 0.0% since the last census count was performed.

Other small counties include:

• Newport County : 82,745
• Washington County : 129,632
• Kent County : 174,712

Rhode Island Counties with Rapid Growth

Providence County , with its sizeable population of 681,684, has shown the largest population growth, with an increase of 0.0% since the last census.

On the other hand, Newport County has had the largest decrease in population, with its 82,745 current residents totalling 0.0% less than the previous census.