Cities and Towns in Providence County, Rhode Island
Founded in 1703, Providence County is one of 5 counties in the state of Rhode Island. Historically, Providence County was formed in 1703 as Providence Plantations County which was renamed Providence County in 1729. The city of Providence is the county seat. With FIPS code of 7, Providence County has a population of 658,221 and area of 409 square miles (1,059 km²).
List of all cities in Providence County, RI alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Albion, RI | 02802 | 401 |
| Brown Station, RI | 02912 | 401 |
| Brown University, RI | 02912 | 401 |
| Burrillville, RI | 02826 | 401 |
| 02830 | 401 | |
| 02839 | 401 | |
| 02858 | 401 | |
| Centerdale, RI | 02911 | 401 |
| Central Falls, RI | 02863 | 401 |
| Centredale, RI | 02911 | 401 |
| Centredale Finance Branch, RI | 02911 | 401 |
| Chepachet, RI | 02814 | 401 |
| Clayville, RI | 02815 | 401 |
| Cranston, RI | 02823 | 401 |
| 02905 | 401 | |
| 02907 | 401 | |
| 02910 | 401 | |
| 02920 | 401 | |
| 02921 | 401 | |
| Cumberland, RI | 02864 | 401 |
| Darlington, RI | 02861 | 401 |
| East Providence, RI | 02914 | 401 |
| 02915 | 401 | |
| 02916 | 401 | |
| Esmond, RI | 02917 | 401 |
| Fiskeville, RI | 02823 | 401 |
| Forestdale, RI | 02824 | 401 |
| Foster, RI | 02825 | 401 |
| Friar Station, RI | 02918 | 401 |
| Glendale, RI | 02826 | 401 |
| Glocester, RI | 02814 | 401 |
| 02829 | 401 | |
| 02857 | 401 | |
| 02859 | 401 | |
| Greenville, RI | 02828 | 401 |
| Harmony, RI | 02829 | 401 |
| Harrisville, RI | 02830 | 401 |
| Hope, RI | 02831 | 401 |
| Johnston, RI | 02919 | 401 |
| Lincoln, RI | 02802 | 401 |
| 02838 | 401 | |
| 02865 | 401 | |
| Manville, RI | 02838 | 401 |
| Mapleville, RI | 02839 | 401 |
| North Providence, RI | 02904 | 401 |
| 02908 | 401 | |
| 02911 | 401 | |
| North Scituate, RI | 02857 | 401 |
| North Smithfield, RI | 02824 | 401 |
| 02876 | 401 | |
| 02896 | 401 | |
| Oakland, RI | 02858 | 401 |
| Pascoag, RI | 02859 | 401 |
| Pawtucket, RI | 02860 | 401 |
| 02861 | 401 | |
| 02862 | 401 | |
| Providence, RI | 02901 | 401 |
| 02902 | 401 | |
| 02903 | 401 | |
| 02904 | 401 | |
| 02905 | 401 | |
| 02906 | 401 | |
| 02907 | 401 | |
| 02908 | 401 | |
| 02909 | 401 | |
| 02910 | 401 | |
| 02911 | 401 | |
| 02912 | 401 | |
| 02918 | 401 | |
| 02919 | 401 | |
| 02940 | 401 | |
| Providence College, RI | 02918 | 401 |
| Providence Journal, RI | 02902 | 401 |
| Riverside, RI | 02915 | 401 |
| Rumford, RI | 02916 | 401 |
| Scituate, RI | 02815 | 401 |
| 02825 | 401 | |
| 02831 | 401 | |
| 02857 | 401 | |
| Slatersville, RI | 02876 | 401 |
| Smithfield, RI | 02828 | 401 |
| 02917 | 401 | |
| Valley Falls, RI | 02864 | 401 |
| Woonsocket, RI | 02895 | 401 |
Major Cities and Towns in Providence County, Rhode Island
Providence
Location and History
Providence is the capital and largest city of Rhode Island, located in the northeastern part of Providence County. Founded in 1636 by Roger Williams, a religious exile from the Massachusetts Bay Colony, Providence is one of the oldest cities in the United States. It was initially established as a haven for religious freedom. Over the centuries, Providence became a major port city and an industrial hub, especially in textiles and jewelry manufacturing during the 19th century. The city’s economy was bolstered by its location on the Woonasquatucket and Moshassuck rivers, which provided access to transportation routes. Today, Providence is known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, its historic architecture, and its educational institutions. It has transformed from a manufacturing center to a diverse, modern city with a thriving economy driven by education, healthcare, and services.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 20.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 190,000
- Zip Codes: 02903, 02904, 02905, 02906, 02907, 02908, 02909
- Latitude: 41.8240° N
- Longitude: 71.4128° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Providence is home to several renowned educational institutions, including Brown University, an Ivy League institution, and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), one of the top art and design schools in the country. The city’s public schools are part of the Providence Public School District, which includes numerous elementary, middle, and high schools. Major landmarks include the historic State House, the WaterFire installation (a series of bonfires on the Woonasquatucket River), and the Benefit Street Historic District, home to many colonial-era buildings. Other notable landmarks are the Roger Williams Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., and the John Brown House Museum, which dates back to 1786. Providence’s vibrant arts scene, including theaters, museums, and galleries, makes it a cultural hub in New England.
Pawtucket
Location and History
Pawtucket is located in the northern part of Providence County, bordering Massachusetts. Founded in 1671, it is one of the oldest cities in Rhode Island and played a key role in the Industrial Revolution. Pawtucket’s growth was largely fueled by its location along the Blackstone River, which provided the water power necessary for mills and factories. In 1793, the first textile mill in America, the Slater Mill, was built in Pawtucket, marking the beginning of the industrialization of the region. The city continued to prosper as a manufacturing center through the 19th and early 20th centuries, producing textiles, machinery, and rubber products. While the manufacturing industry has declined in recent decades, Pawtucket has reinvented itself with a focus on the arts, entertainment, and small businesses.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 9.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 72,000
- Zip Codes: 02860, 02861
- Latitude: 41.8777° N
- Longitude: 71.3824° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Pawtucket is served by the Pawtucket School District, which includes several elementary schools, middle schools, and the high school, Tolman High School. The city is also home to the Community College of Rhode Island’s Pawtucket campus. Major landmarks in Pawtucket include the Slater Mill Historic Site, which preserves the city’s industrial heritage, and the Pawtucket City Hall, an elegant 19th-century building. The city is also known for the Pawtucket Red Sox (PawSox), the minor league baseball team, which draws thousands of visitors to McCoy Stadium. Other attractions include the Blackstone River State Park, which offers scenic walking and biking paths along the river, and the Arts District, which hosts galleries and local events celebrating the city’s vibrant creative community.
Cranston
Location and History
Cranston is located in the central part of Providence County and is one of Rhode Island’s oldest and most populous cities. Originally settled in the late 1600s, Cranston was incorporated in 1754. Like many New England towns, it began as a farming community but quickly grew in the 19th century due to its proximity to Providence and its access to rivers like the Pawtuxet River. The city was an important center for textile manufacturing during the Industrial Revolution and continued to grow as a suburban area throughout the 20th century. Today, Cranston is a thriving residential community known for its excellent schools, parks, and convenient access to both Providence and the coast.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 28.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 81,000
- Zip Codes: 02905, 02907, 02910, 02920
- Latitude: 41.7798° N
- Longitude: 71.4370° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cranston is served by the Cranston Public Schools district, which includes Cranston High School East and Cranston High School West. The city also has a number of elementary and middle schools. Major landmarks in Cranston include the historic Sprague Mansion, a beautifully preserved 18th-century home that now serves as a museum. The Garden City Center, a large shopping complex, is a key commercial center in the city. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Pawtuxet River offers opportunities for fishing and kayaking, while the Cranston City Hall is an important civic building. The city is also home to several parks, such as the beautiful Garden City Park and the spacious Roland J. Dyer Memorial Park, which offers trails, sports fields, and playgrounds.
North Providence
Location and History
North Providence is a suburban town located just north of the city of Providence, and it shares a close historical connection with its larger neighbor. Incorporated in 1765, North Providence was originally settled as part of Providence and was primarily an agricultural area. As Providence grew during the 19th century, North Providence developed into a mill town, particularly for textiles and jewelry production. By the 20th century, the town began to transition into a residential community as nearby Providence became more urbanized. North Providence is now a largely suburban area, known for its strong community feel, local businesses, and parks. Its central location allows residents easy access to both downtown Providence and the suburban areas of northern Rhode Island.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 5.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 32,000
- Zip Codes: 02904, 02911
- Latitude: 41.8532° N
- Longitude: 71.4703° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
North Providence is served by the North Providence School District, with schools such as North Providence High School and several elementary and middle schools. The town is home to several recreational areas, including the popular Wenscott Reservoir, where residents can enjoy boating and fishing. Another prominent landmark is the Governor John Livingston House, which reflects the town’s colonial history. Additionally, the town offers several parks, including the Lymansville Park and the Pomona Park, which offer outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and sports. North Providence also has a number of local businesses, restaurants, and community centers that provide a variety of services and entertainment options for its residents.
Johnston
Location and History
Johnston is located in the western part of Providence County and is known for its suburban character and proximity to Providence. Incorporated in 1759, the town’s early economy was based on agriculture, particularly dairy farming. During the Industrial Revolution, Johnston became known for its manufacturing industries, including the production of silverware, textiles, and machinery. While the town was heavily industrialized in the 19th century, it gradually transitioned into a residential suburb in the 20th century. Today, Johnston is a mixture of residential, commercial, and rural areas, offering a balance between suburban living and access to urban amenities in nearby Providence.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 17.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 29,000
- Zip Codes: 02919, 02920, 02921
- Latitude: 41.8235° N
- Longitude: 71.5010° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Johnston is served by the Johnston Public Schools district, which includes Johnston High School, several middle schools, and a number of elementary schools. The town has several parks and recreational areas, including the Johnston War Memorial Park, which features sports fields and a community center. The Clemence Irons House, an early colonial building dating back to the 17th century, is a notable historical landmark. For nature lovers, the Glocester Reservoir and the nearby Johnston Wildlife Management Area provide opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. The town’s proximity to Providence also allows residents easy access to a wide range of cultural and commercial offerings in Rhode Island’s capital.
