In 2021, the town of Badger, Newfoundland and Labrador recorded a population of 682, reflecting a 3.1% decline from the 704 residents reported in 2016. Spread across a compact land area of 1.89 km², Badger has a population density of 361.6 persons per square kilometre, making it a small but moderately dense community in central Newfoundland.
Population Growth Trends
Badger has experienced a gradual population decline. Between 2016 and 2021, the town lost 22 residents, reversing earlier periods of stability. This decline aligns with broader demographic challenges faced by many rural Newfoundland communities, including out-migration and aging populations.
Age Distribution
Badger has a significantly older demographic profile, with a median age of 56 years and an average age of 51 years. Over one-third (33.1%) of residents are seniors aged 65 and over.
Table: Age Distribution of Badger (2021)
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 65 | 9.6% |
| 15–64 years | 395 | 58.1% |
| 65+ years | 225 | 33.1% |
Households & Dwellings
Badger contained 357 private dwellings in 2021, of which 313 were occupied. The average household size was 2.2 persons. Housing is overwhelmingly single-detached homes (95%), reflecting the town’s traditional rural character.
Table: Household Size in Badger (2021)
| Household Size | Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 75 |
| 2 persons | 145 |
| 3 persons | 45 |
| 4 persons | 30 |
| 5+ persons | 5 |
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
Badger is a predominantly non-visible minority community, with only 10 residents (about 1.5%) identifying as part of a visible minority group. The largest reported ancestry groups were English (255), Irish (120), Canadian (130), and Scottish (30).
Table: Visible Minority Population in Badger (2021)
| Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Visible Minority | 10 | 1.5% |
| Not Visible Minority | 645 | 98.5% |
Immigration
Badger has an overwhelmingly non-immigrant population. The 2021 Census reported no immigrants or non-permanent residents living in the town. Generationally, 640 residents (97%) were third-generation or more, with only a small number identifying as first or second generation.
Table: Immigration Status in Badger (2021)
| Category | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Non-immigrants | 660 | 100% |
| Immigrants | 0 | 0% |
| Non-permanent residents | 0 | 0% |
Income & Poverty
In 2020, the median household income in Badger was $64,000, with two-or-more-person households earning a median of $77,500. However, 19.2% of residents lived in low-income households (based on the after-tax Low-Income Measure).
Table: Income Levels in Badger (2020)
| Income Measure | Value |
|---|---|
| Median household income | $64,000 |
| Median after-tax household income | $58,000 |
| Median income, two-person+ households | $77,500 |
| Low-income prevalence (LIM-AT) | 19.2% |
Education
Education levels show a split between secondary and trades/college training. Among residents aged 15 and over:
- 29% (180 people) had no certificate, diploma, or degree.
- 23% (145 people) completed high school.
- 48% (295 people) had postsecondary education, including trades, college, and some university.
Table: Highest Education Level in Badger (2021)
| Education Level | Population |
|---|---|
| No certificate, diploma, or degree | 180 |
| High school diploma | 145 |
| Postsecondary certificate/diploma | 295 |
Employment
Badger had a labour force participation rate of 45.2% in 2021, with an employment rate of 37.1% and an unemployment rate of 17.9%. Employment was concentrated in health care and social assistance (50 workers), sales and service (65), and trades/transport (65).
Table: Employment by Sector (2021)
| Industry Sector | Workers |
|---|---|
| Health care & social assistance | 50 |
| Sales & service | 65 |
| Trades, transport & equipment | 65 |
| Public administration | 45 |
| Construction | 25 |
| Other sectors | 35 |
Commuting & Transportation
Badger residents rely heavily on private vehicles, with 185 commuters driving to work. A small number walk (10) or use other methods (15). Commute times are moderate, with most residents travelling 15–44 minutes to work.
Table: Main Mode of Commuting (2021)
| Mode of Transport | Commuters |
|---|---|
| Car, truck, van | 185 |
| Walk | 10 |
| Other | 15 |
| Public transit | 0 |
Conclusion
Badger’s 2021 Census profile highlights the realities of a small, aging town in Newfoundland and Labrador. With a shrinking population, high median age, and low immigration, the community faces demographic challenges but also retains strong family households and stable income levels compared to many rural areas.
One unique feature of Badger is its resilience—despite population decline, the town maintains a robust housing stock and a close-knit community rooted in multi-generational families.
FAQ
The population of Badger in 2021 was 682.
Badger’s population declined by 3.1% between 2016 and 2021.
The median age in Badger is 56 years, reflecting an older population.
In 2021, there were 313 occupied private dwellings in Badger.
Leading employment sectors in Badger include health care, sales and service, trades, and public administration.
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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