Providence is the culturally rich and ethnically diverse state capital of Rhode Island. It is one of the largest cities in News England and home to the famous roadside attraction Nibbles Woodaway (aka "the Big Blue Bug"), the world's largest termite and mascot for New England Pest Control.
Cultural Attractions
During the summer months, the city regularly hosts WaterFire at Waterplace Park, which consists of about 100 bonfires sparkling on the surface of the rivers that pass through the middle of downtown Providence. There are special events, including music and art displays, accompanying each WaterFire evening.
Economy
Providence is undergoing an arts-induced economic boom, in part because it is the home of the world renowned Rhode Island School of Design. The Downtown Arts and Entertainment District are positioning Providence as a "comeback city."
Geography
Providence is located near the Atlantic Coast, at the head of Narragansett Bay on the west side of the Providence and Seekonk rivers.
Historical
One of the oldest cities in New England, Providence was founded by Roger Williams on the land of the Narragansett Indians. He named it for God's guidance and care and made it a haven for religious exiles.
Recreation
The city is home to a 1,200-acre park system, most notably Roger Williams Park, which contains a zoo, a botanical center, and the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium.
Location Details
Weather
Average January high/low temperature (?)
50.49 ° / 28.07 °
Average July high/low temperature (?)
89.33 ° / 66.85 °
Precipitation (?)
47.73 in. /yr.
% Sunny days per year (?)
25 %
Index score for various storm types (lower is better) (?)
90
Index score for air quality (lower is better) (?)
112
Cost of Living
Median home price (?)
$ 230,000
Median household income, age 55 to 75 (?)
$31157.0
Median household income, all ages(?)
$28525
Maximum state income tax (?)
N/A
State sales tax (?)
7 %
Recreational & Cultural Activities
Area of square miles of parkland/greenspace (?)
.910 mi.²
Number of public golf courses within the county (?)
14
Number of private golf courses within the county (?)
20
Number of public swimming pools within 15 miles of the location(?)
6
Health clubs, studios & gymnasiums within 15 miles of the location(?)
126
Number of sports teams within the county (?)
1
Number of movie theaters within the county (?)
12
Number of libraries within the county (?)
56
Number of museums within the county (?)
19
Number of college and universities that reside within the county (?)
6
Population & Demographics
Total population (?)
175,255
Population density (?)
9,913 people/mi.²
Population trends (Percentage growth/decline of the 55+ population) (?)
35.8% growth
Population over 55 (?)
32,226 people
Education (?)
23 % have a college degree
Health
Number of hospitals within the county (?)
37
Number of clinics within the county (?)
69
Number of elder care facilities within the county (?)
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