Warwick is a city in Kent County, Rhode Island, United States. As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of 80,977, making it the second largest city in the state.
Population
According to the Wikipedia page for Warwick, the city had an estimated population of 80,977 as of 2020. This makes Warwick the second largest city in Rhode Island after Providence. The city has grown steadily over the decades, with its population nearly doubling since 1970 when it had around 43,000 residents.
Warwick’s population is predominantly white, with Hispanic/Latino, Black/African American, and Asian residents making up most of the minority population. The city has a fairly even gender split and a median age of 42.4 years old. Warwick has a large number of elderly residents, with over 15% of the population aged 65 and older.
Warwick is part of the Providence metropolitan area, which contains over 1.6 million residents. The city’s central location and diverse neighborhoods have contributed to its population growth over the years.
Economy and Major Employers
Warwick has a diverse economic base, with healthcare, retail trade, and manufacturing as top industries. Some of the major employers in Warwick include:
- UnitedHealthcare – a managed healthcare provider with over 4,000 employees in Warwick.
- Citizens Bank – a regional bank with multiple locations and employees in Warwick.
- MetLife – an insurance company with several offices in Warwick.
- Tiffany & Co. – the luxury jewelry retailer has a major manufacturing facility in Warwick.
- General Dynamics Electric Boat – a submarine constructor with operations in Warwick.
Other major employers include Taco Comfort Solutions, New England Institute of Technology, BakerCorp, and Eastern Scrap Recycling. Several shopping centers and retail outlets also provide many jobs, including the Warwick Mall, Rhode Island Mall, and big box stores like Walmart, Target, and Home Depot.
Healthcare and social assistance, retail trade, arts and entertainment, and manufacturing are major industries in Warwick. The city’s economy benefits from its proximity to Providence and location near major highways.
Landmarks
Some of Warwick’s most famous landmarks include:
- John Brown House – an early American mansion built in 1792 that was home to Rhode Island industrialist John Brown. Now a National Historic Landmark.
- Rocky Point Park – a popular 148-acre shoreline park with views of Narragansett Bay, walking trails, and remnants of an old amusement park.
- Warwick City Hall – the historic city hall was built in 1932 and is an iconic landmark in Warwick’s downtown area.
- Warwick Historical Society Museum – preserves artifacts and information related to Warwick’s long history as a colonial settlement and industrial hub.
Other notable landmarks include City Park which hosts summer concerts, the Warwick Mall which is a major retail shopping destination, and historic homes like the Caesar Lynsen House.
Sports
Although Warwick does not have any major professional sports teams, there are still opportunities for residents to enjoy sports and athletics. The city is home to several high school teams, most notably the Bishop Hendricken Hawks which have won many state championships in various sports over the years. The local community college, CCRI Warwick, also fields varsity sports teams.
On a recreational level, Warwick offers many parks and fields for pick-up games and youth sports leagues. Organized leagues for adults include softball, basketball, soccer, and more. Ice skating and hockey can be enjoyed at Thayer Arena, home of the Warwick Warhawks youth hockey organization.
Though lacking a major professional team, Warwick residents are still able to enjoy following and rooting for nearby franchises like the Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, and Boston Celtics.
Local Government and Civic Resources
Warwick utilizes a mayor-council form of government. The day-to-day operations are managed by the City Manager, while the Mayor serves as the city’s chief elected official. The Warwick City Council is made up of 9 members who are elected from city wards. Residents can contact their council representative for assistance or learn more about city government on the official city website.
The city also provides many resources and services for residents including:
- Public schools through the Warwick Public School District
- Public libraries via the Warwick Public Library
- Parks, recreation, and senior services through the City Departments
- Public safety through the Warwick Police and Fire Departments
- Utility services such as trash, recycling, water, and sewer
Residents who need assistance can contact Warwick City Hall or visit the city’s website and social media pages like Facebook and Twitter for updated news and announcements.
Living in Warwick
Warwick provides an excellent quality of life for its residents. The city has top-rated schools, charming neighborhoods, diverse dining and shopping options, local parks and beaches, and convenient highway access to Providence and Boston. Homebuyers can choose from a range of housing options including historic properties, waterfront homes, condominiums, and new developments.
The city has worked to preserve its history while continuing to invest in infrastructure and economic growth. Residents can enjoy cultural events and entertainment like WaterFire Providence, the local arts scene, and Warwick’s many community events and festivals.
Though one of Rhode Island’s largest cities, Warwick still has a close-knit hometown feel. Long-term residents and new transplants alike quickly come to appreciate all that this wonderful city has to offer.