How Many Acres Are in Rhode Island? Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the U.S. by area, but exactly how many acres make up this tiny New England state? As it turns out, Rhode Island packs a lot into its petite geographical footprint.
Rhode Island spreads to around 777,000 acres. The state contains a remarkable range of landscapes, from bustling cities like Providence to over 400 miles of scenic coastline.
Rhode Island also boasts vibrant agricultural areas, dense forests, and iconic New England villages connected by winding country roads.
Key Takeaways:
- Rhode Island occupies just under 777,000 acres of land plus inland waterways
- Over 86% of Rhode Island’s acreage remains undeveloped as farms, forests and open space
- Washington County is geographically the largest at over 430,000 acres
- Alaska dwarfs Rhode Island at over 365 million acres of land
- Tiny Rhode Island averages less than one acre per resident
How Many Acres Are in Rhode Island? How big is Rhode Island?
The total land area of Rhode Island is approximately 776,957 acres according to the U.S. Census Bureau. To put that into perspective, 640 acres make up one square mile. So, how many acres are there in Rhode Island? With 1,214 square miles of land, Rhode Island contains around 777,000 acres.
That’s less than many large farms in the Midwest! Alaska – the largest state – has over 365 million acres, making it around 470 times bigger than little Rhody. Still, Rhode Island makes excellent use of its modest real estate.
How Big is Rhode Island Compared to Other States?
Although tiny, Rhode Island still ranks #43 among U.S. states and territories by total area. The only states with less acreage are Connecticut, Delaware, and of course the District of Columbia.
Rhode Island also ranks #2 for population density at 1,018 people per square mile. Therefore, while small in size, Rhode Island packs in the residents. Only New Jersey has a higher population concentration among U.S. states.
How is Land Used in Rhode Island?
According to the 2017 U.S. Census of Agriculture, Rhode Island contained 666,840 acres of farmland and agricultural areas. Forestland accounted for approximately 362,700 acres.
That means about 86% of Rhode Island’s total land area remains undeveloped, consisting of farms, forests, wetlands, and open space.
However, Rhode Island also has one of the highest percentages of developed land in the U.S. Nearly 14% of Rhode Islandās land area is considered urban.
That adds up to over 100,000 acres of developed areas consisting of densely populated cities and suburban neighborhoods.
What is Rhode Island’s Largest County by Area?
Washington County occupies over 430,000 acres in southwestern Rhode Island, accounting for roughly 58% of the state’s total land. In contrast, Providence County only covers about 137,000 acres.
Therefore, while Providence County is the most populous, Washington County claims the title as the largest Rhode Island county by total area.
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How Many Acres Per Person Does Rhode Island Have?
Rhode Island’s land use efficiency is a critical aspect of its urban and rural planning, given its small size and dense population.
With about 0.78 acres per resident, compared to Alaska’s vast 20 acres per person, Rhode Island faces unique challenges and opportunities:
Urban Planning: Dense population clusters in cities like Providence require innovative urban planning strategies. This involves maximizing limited space for housing, businesses, and public amenities while maintaining livability.
Green Spaces: Balancing urban development with green spaces is crucial. Parks, community gardens, and greenways are integrated into cityscapes to enhance quality of life and environmental health.
Infrastructure Efficiency: Rhode Island invests in efficient infrastructure to support its dense population. This includes public transportation systems, optimized road networks, and sustainable energy solutions.
Economic Development: Limited space necessitates a focus on high-value, low-footprint industries like technology, finance, and education, rather than large-scale manufacturing or agriculture.
Housing Solutions: To accommodate its population, Rhode Island explores a range of housing solutions, including multi-family units, mixed-use developments, and innovative approaches to affordable housing.
Coastal Management: With an extensive coastline, Rhode Island prioritizes coastal management to mitigate erosion and flooding, crucial for protecting densely populated coastal areas.
Agricultural Efficiency: The state encourages efficient agricultural practices on its limited farmland, focusing on high-yield and sustainable methods.
Environmental Conservation: Despite urban density, conservation efforts are key. This includes protecting wetlands, forests, and wildlife habitats.
Tourist Attractions in Rhode Island
Rhode Island, the smallest state in the United States, is a treasure trove of attractions, blending natural beauty, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural experiences. Sure that is a reason Why is Rhode Island so famous?
Roger Williams Park Zoo, Providence
Established in 1872, Roger Williams Park Zoo is not only a piece of history but also a conservation haven, home to approximately 150 animal species from across the globe.
This zoo, one of the oldest in the U.S., offers a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in habitats closely mirroring their natural environments.
Families and wildlife enthusiasts will find this destination both educational and enchanting, promising a day filled with discovery and adventure.
Marble House Newport
A symbol of the Gilded Age’s opulence, Marble House stands as a monument to extravagance and architectural brilliance.
Constructed in 1892 with Beaux-Arts style architecture, this mansion was envisioned as a ‘summer cottage’ and showcases the grandeur of its era.
Visitors can marvel at the lavish interiors, the meticulously designed gardens, and the stunning tea house, all of which paint a vivid picture of America’s wealthy past.
Narragansett Beaches
Rhode Island’s coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches, but Narragansett’s sandy shores are especially beloved.
These beaches are celebrated not just for their scenic beauty but also for their accessible facilities and the charming attractions nearby, including historic carousels and lighthouses.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand, enjoy a swim, or explore coastal landmarks, Narragansett offers a perfect seaside escape.
Colt State Park, Bristol
Colt State Park’s 464 acres of lawns, fruit trees, and flower beds make it a gem on the Narragansett Bay’s shore.
Renowned for its panoramic views, the park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering miles of trails for biking and walking, picnic areas, and a variety of water-based activities. Its blend of natural beauty and recreational facilities makes it an ideal spot for family outings and nature lovers.
Cultivating Culture and History
Providence Performing Arts Center
The heart of Rhode Island’s arts scene beats strongly at the Providence Performing Arts Center. This historic venue, founded in 1928, captivates audiences with its diverse array of performances, from orchestral concerts and Broadway shows to plays and other live events.
The center’s rich history and architectural elegance, combined with top-tier entertainment, create an unforgettable cultural experience.
Herreshoff Marine Museum
Diving into Rhode Island’s maritime heritage, the Herreshoff Marine Museum offers an insightful look into the innovative world of yacht design and manufacturing by the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company.
With a collection that spans from the late 19th to the mid-20th century, the museum showcases beautifully crafted boats and yachts, sharing stories of technological advancement and creativity on the water.
Embracing the Great Outdoors
Mohegan Bluffs, Block Island
For those seeking adventure and natural beauty, the Mohegan Bluffs on Block Island offer a breathtaking experience.
These towering clay cliffs, reaching heights of 150 feet, provide spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. The journey to the bluffs involves a challenging but rewarding climb, culminating in truly unparalleled vistas.
Lincoln Woods State Park
Lincoln Woods State Park serves as a sanctuary of tranquility and recreation near the bustle of urban life. With 627 acres surrounding Olney Pond, the park invites visitors to engage in a variety of activities, from hiking and swimming to fishing and kayaking.
Its extensive trails, picnic areas, and serene landscapes make it a beloved spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
In Conclusion – How Many Acres Are in Rhode Island?
So there you have it – the smallest U.S. state occupies just shy of 777,000 acres of scenic landscapes ranging from bustling cities like Providence to over 400 miles of breathtaking coastline. Tiny Rhode Island definitely lives up to its reputation for packing a lot into a petite package.
While it may be dwarfed by sprawling western states like Alaska and Texas, Rhode Islandās strategic use of available land gives it outsized offerings when it comes to charm, scenery, cuisine, history, and culture.
Next time you visit Little Rhody, appreciate all it crams into less than a million acres between the Atlantic Ocean and Connecticut.
FAQs – How Many Acres Are in Rhode Island
How Many Acres Does Rhode Island Have?
Rhode Island occupies around 777,000 acres of land plus another 262 square miles of inland bodies of water like Narragansett Bay. Altogether, the state has just over 1.2 million acres if you count rivers, lakes, and other water features.
How Big is Rhode Island Compared to Other States?
At 1,214 square miles, Rhode Island is the smallest U.S. state by land area. It ranks #43 out of 50 states plus territories by size. Only Connecticut, Delaware, and Washington D.C. have less total acreage than Rhode Island.
What State Has the Most Acres?
Alaska is by far the largest state, occupying over 365 million acres. That’s around 470 times bigger than Rhode Island’s modest footprint. Tiny Rhode Island proves that sometimes less is more when it comes to scenery and attractions.
How Much Does 1 Acre of Land Cost in Rhode Island?
As of 2022, an acre of land in Rhode Island costs around $16,500 on average. However, prices can range from $5,000 per acre in rural areas to over $1 million per acre for coastal property in prime locations like Newport. Either way, land doesn’t come cheap in the tiny Ocean State.
Lila, a California native, has been globe-trotting since her college days. With a penchant for hidden gems and local eateries, she brings a fresh perspective to every destination. When she isn’t exploring the nooks and crannies of a new city, she’s probably jotting down her experiences, sipping on a cup of locally brewed coffee.