Providence: Beyond 2000

HPL wrote a poem of Providence in 2000. (Providence in 2000 A.D. on 4 March 1912) From his perspective it was many generations hence, but he was disturbed that the immigrants were quickly supplanting his cherished ways of life, a very human, albeit xenophobic, reaction.

Here's a Providence 2009 update.

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There are few smiles among those who live in Providence, R.I., these days. In February, the metro area reported an 11.6% unemployment rate, one of the highest in the country. Construction--one of Providence's major industries--is down; traditional manufacturing has been struggling for years. Like many across the country, few are spending at retailers. And while the area's median income is $54,064--about $4,000 higher than the national average--its cost of living index is steep, 22 points above the national average of 100.

All this means it's hard to catch a break in Providence. While not as dire, other metro areas across the country are facing similar situations. It costs more than average to live in Sacramento and Portland. The New York metro area's got an 8.2% unemployment rate; in San Jose, home to Silicon Valley, it's 10%.