In 2021, Arnold’s Cove, a small town in Newfoundland and Labrador, recorded a population of 964 residents. This marked a modest increase of 1.6% from the 2016 population of 949. With a land area of 5.25 square kilometres, the town has a population density of 183.8 people per km². Known for its scenic coastal views, Arnold’s Cove continues to be a close-knit community with gradual demographic shifts.
Population Growth Trends
Arnold’s Cove has maintained relatively stable population levels. Between 2016 and 2021, the town added just 15 new residents, representing slow but positive growth. This stability reflects trends seen across many smaller rural towns in Newfoundland and Labrador, where population growth is limited but communities remain resilient.
Age Distribution
The median age in Arnold’s Cove was 52.4 years in 2021, significantly higher than the national average, reflecting an aging population. Nearly 29% of residents were seniors aged 65 and over.
Age Breakdown (2021):
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 125 | 13.0% |
| 15–64 years | 565 | 58.5% |
| 65+ years | 280 | 29.0% |
This demographic profile highlights a shrinking youth base and a growing senior population, typical of many rural communities.
Households & Dwellings
Arnold’s Cove had 547 private dwellings in 2021, of which 434 were occupied by usual residents. Single-detached houses dominate, making up 375 dwellings. The average household size was 2.2 persons.
| Household Size | Number of Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 135 |
| 2 persons | 175 |
| 3 persons | 55 |
| 4 persons | 55 |
| 5+ persons | 10 |
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
Arnold’s Cove is an overwhelmingly English-speaking and non-visible minority community. Nearly the entire population reported English as their mother tongue, with only a handful reporting other languages such as Malayalam.
In terms of identity:
- 50 residents identified as Indigenous (mostly First Nations and Métis).
- The vast majority (890 people) identified as non-Indigenous.
- No significant immigrant population was reported, with all residents being Canadian citizens.
Income & Poverty
Income levels in Arnold’s Cove highlight a mix of modest earnings and reliance on government transfers.
- Median household income (2020): $75,500
- Median after-tax household income: $64,000
- Median individual total income: $37,200
- Poverty (LIM-AT): 14.8%
| Household Type | Median Total Income (2020) |
|---|---|
| All households | $75,500 |
| One-person households | $33,600 |
| Two-or-more person households | $90,000 |
Poverty rates were notably higher among seniors (25% of those 65+ lived in low income).
Education
Education levels show that while a significant portion of residents did not pursue postsecondary studies, many hold trades and college-level credentials.
| Education Level | Population (15+) |
|---|---|
| No certificate, diploma or degree | 250 |
| High school diploma | 225 |
| Postsecondary (below bachelor) | 275 |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | 70 |
Trades and technical training are particularly strong, with many working in construction, mechanics, or applied fields.
Employment
In 2021, Arnold’s Cove had a labour force participation rate of 56.7%, with an employment rate of 47.6%. However, the unemployment rate was 15.1%, higher than the provincial and national averages.
Employment by Industry (Top Sectors):
- Manufacturing: 115 workers
- Sales & service: 105
- Trades & transport: 90
- Education & health services: 50 combined
- Construction: 45
This reflects the community’s reliance on industrial and trades-based employment, with fewer positions in finance or technology.
Commuting & Transportation
Most employed residents rely on personal vehicles to get to work.
| Mode of Transport | Number of Workers |
|---|---|
| Car, truck, or van | 310 |
| Walked | 15 |
| Other methods | 20 |
| Public transit | 0 |
Commute times were relatively short, with 67% of commuters traveling less than 30 minutes.
Conclusion
Arnold’s Cove in 2021 was home to 964 residents, showing slow but steady growth. With a median age of 52.4 years, the community is aging, but it remains strong through family households, modest incomes, and a stable workforce centered around manufacturing and trades. A unique feature of Arnold’s Cove is its remarkably high proportion of long-term Canadian-born citizens, with virtually no immigration influence—making it a distinct example of rural Newfoundland demographic stability.
FAQ
The population of Arnold’s Cove in 2021 was 964.
Yes, the population grew by 1.6% from 2016 to 2021.
The median age was 52.4 years in 2021, reflecting an aging population.
There were 434 occupied private dwellings in 2021.
Manufacturing, trades, transportation, sales, and education/health services are the leading industries.
Source:
- Statistics Canada, 2021 Census of Population.
- Statistics Canada. Table 17-10-0148-01 Population estimates, July 1, by census metropolitan area and census agglomeration, 2021 boundaries
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