Economy
Rhode Island's economy is built upon three powerful industries: Health services, tourism and manufacturing. Health services is the state's largest industry. Growing industries include electronics, plastics, metal products, instruments, chemicals, and boat building.
Tourism is Rhode Island's second largest industry, supporting 39,000 jobs and producing tourism-related sales which topped $3.26 billion in 2000. Manufacturing is the state's third largest industry. Rhode Island is a recognized producer of jewelry and boats, and is strong in electronics and ocean technologies. Information technology and financial services are growing industries in Rhode Island.
Geography
Area: 1,214 square miles
Greatest Distances : North to South - 48 miles; East to West - 37 miles
Elevation : Highest - Jerimoth Hill, Foster 812 feet; Lowest - Sea level along Atlantic coast.
Population : 1,048,319 (April 1, 2000)
Coastline : Over 400 miles
Climate : Avg. Jan. Temperature - 30°F; Avg. July Temperature - 72° F
Yearly Precipitation : 44 inches (avg.)
Rhode Island's official name: State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations
Regions of Rhode Island