Kent County Public RecordsRhode Island

As of 2023, Kent County, Rhode Island, has a population of approximately 172,400. The median age is 45.5 years, with 20% under 18 and 20% aged 65 or older. Females comprise 52%, and males 48%. Racially, the county is 87% White, 4% Black or African American, 3% Asian, and 1% Native American, with 6% identifying as Hispanic or Latino. The county is largely suburban and family-oriented.

Kent County, RI, has approximately 130,000 registered voters as of 2024. Voters participate in local, state, and federal elections, with major parties being Democratic and Republican. In the 2020 presidential election, about 55% voted Democratic and 44% Republican. Key issues include education funding and property taxes. Polling locations number around 36 across Warwick, West Warwick, Coventry, East Greenwich, and West Greenwich. Elections are administered by the Kent County Board of Canvassers, ensuring compliance with Rhode Island law. Early voting and mail-in options are available to accommodate diverse voter needs.

Kent County, RI, boasts 28 public schools, including 4 high schools, serving around 12,000 students. Approximately 93% of adults hold a high school diploma, and 31% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average public school ranking is above the state average, with Warwick Public Schools scoring 6/10 on GreatSchools. School safety initiatives include SROs and anti-bullying programs. Adult education options are available through CCRI’s Warwick campus. Educational programs feature AP courses, STEAM, and career-technical training, supporting diverse learning needs and preparing students for both college and careers.

As of 2023, Kent County, RI, had an unemployment rate of around 3.0%. Major industries include healthcare and social assistance (22%), retail trade (12%), and educational services (10%). Common occupations are office/administrative support (15%) and sales (11%). Approximately 86% of employed residents commute by car, with a mean travel time of 26 minutes. Most workers (over 80%) are employed within Rhode Island, including cities like Warwick and Providence.

Kent County, RI has a homeownership rate of about 70%, with median home values around $370,000 as of 2024. Median rent is approximately $1,800/month. The housing market has seen modest annual increases of 4-6% in property values. Housing types include single-family homes, condos, and apartments, with Warwick and Coventry being prominent neighborhoods. Property tax rates average 1.6%, resulting in typical annual taxes of $5,920 on a median home. The market currently favors sellers, with low inventory and consistent demand.

Kent County, RI generally experiences lower crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported a violent crime rate of approximately 130 incidents per 100,000 residents, and a property crime rate around 1,150 per 100,000. Local law enforcement agencies encourage prompt crime reporting, ensuring responsive action and reliable statistical data. Community policing and neighborhood watch initiatives have contributed to increased safety and public awareness across Kent County.