Rhode Island's Latin population has grown by 15 percent since the 2020 census, according to new estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, making the Ocean State one of the fastest-growing Latin communities in New England.

The state's Latin population now stands at approximately 165,000 people, representing about 15.5 percent of Rhode Island's total population. Providence remains the epicenter of this growth, with Latin residents now comprising more than 42 percent of the city's population.

Where Growth Is Happening

While Providence continues to be home to the largest concentration of Latin residents, significant growth is also occurring in:

- **Pawtucket**: Latin population up 18% since 2020 - **Central Falls**: Remains the most densely Latin city in New England - **Woonsocket**: Latin community growing rapidly in the northern part of the state - **West Warwick**: Emerging as a new destination for Latin families

Who Is Coming

The new arrivals represent a diverse cross-section of Latin America. While Puerto Ricans and Dominicans continue to represent the largest groups, there has been significant growth in the Guatemalan, Honduran, and Colombian communities. Many new arrivals are young families attracted by Rhode Island's relatively affordable housing compared to Boston and New York.

Economic Implications

Economists note that the growing Latin population is helping to offset Rhode Island's overall population stagnation and is providing a critical source of labor for the state's healthcare, construction, and service industries.

"The Latin community is quite literally keeping Rhode Island's economy growing," said Dr. Patricia Campos, an economist at Brown University. "Without this population growth, the state would be facing much more serious demographic and economic challenges."