10 Major Rhode Island Industries to Consider if You’re Working in or Moving to the State
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Rhode Island is home to a diverse economy with thriving industries that attract homebuyers and renters alike. Whether you’re browsing homes for sale in Providence or apartments in Newport, you’ll find opportunities close to major employers. From healthcare to manufacturing, the state’s economy is built on innovation and tradition. Rhode Island major industries offer competitive job markets, making it an appealing choice for those moving to Rhode Island. Its small size and tight-knit communities provide an excellent balance between professional growth and personal lifestyle.
Rhode Island at a glance: 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 Diosese of Providence: 7,500 employees
CVS Health Corporation: 7,500 employees
Brown University: 4,800 employees
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Deciding between renting or buying your next home?
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10 major industries in Rhode Island
1. Healthcare and Social Assistance
Major Employers: Lifespan Health System (Providence), Care New England (Providence), CVS Health (locations in Rhode Island).
Healthcare dominates Rhode Island’s economy, with major hospitals and health networks driving employment. Lifespan Health System offers roles in nursing, medical research, and administration. Care New England employs professionals in behavioral health and women’s services. CVS Health, though not headquartered locally, operates numerous locations across the state, contributing to pharmacy and retail jobs. The healthcare sector attracts residents due to its stability and opportunities for career advancement.
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2. Manufacturing
Major Employers: Electric Boat (location in North Kingstown), Toray Plastics (North Kingstown), Teknor Apex (Pawtucket).
Manufacturing has evolved into a high-tech industry in Rhode Island. Electric Boat focuses on 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. The state’s strategic location and innovation in manufacturing make it ideal for professionals in this field.
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 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.
Major Employers: Amgen (location in West Greenwich), IGT (locations in Rhode Island), FM Global (Johnston).
This sector includes 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 a hub for innovation draws professionals from various fields.
Major Employers: Citizens Bank (Johnston), Amica Mutual Insurance (Lincoln), Bank of America (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, and Bank of America maintains regional offices, offering positions in wealth management. This industry supports long-term growth for professionals and businesses alike.
Major Employers: Ocean House (Watch Hill), Newport Restaurant Group (Warwick), Bally’s Twin River Casino Resort (Lincoln).
Tourism thrives in Rhode Island, with 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 take in the state’s picturesque coastline while taking advantage of tourism opportunities.
Major Employers: Ocean State Job Lot (North Kingstown), Stop & Shop (locations in Rhode Island).
Retail offers a mix of career options in Rhode island, from management to customer service. Ocean State Job Lot’s headquarters provides corporate and warehouse jobs. Stop & Shop employs individuals in grocery retail as well as logistics. Retail contributes significantly to Rhode Island’s accessible and community-oriented economy.
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. The State of Rhode Island hires for a variety of departments, including transportation and education. The U.S. Navy operates out of Newport, offering both civilian and military careers. Warwick provides opportunities in local governance and community programs, making the industry stable and diverse.
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 hires actors and production staff. WaterFire employs coordinators for its large-scale art installations. AS220 offers opportunities in creative programming and community engagement. The state’s support for the arts attracts professionals who value creativity and collaboration.
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10. Agriculture and aquaculture
Major Employers: Matunuck Oyster Bar (Wakefield), Rhode Island Nursery and Landscape Association (locations in Rhode Island), Perry Raso Aquaculture (South Kingstown).
Agriculture and aquaculture contribute to Rhode Island’s local food scene 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-based fields.
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