Brantford, located in southwestern Ontario, is a vibrant city that has seen consistent growth in recent years. In 2024, Brantford’s population reached 173,530, representing 1.08% of Ontario’s total population of 16,124,116. Known as the “Telephone City” for its historic link to Alexander Graham Bell, Brantford combines small-city charm with growing economic and cultural opportunities, making it an attractive place for families, students, and professionals.
Total Population
173,530
Median Age
39 years
Land Area
1,074.00 km²
Brantford Population by Age
Brantford’s demographic structure shows a balanced mix of younger residents, working-age adults, and seniors.
| Age Group | Population | Percentage of Total |
|---|---|---|
| All ages | 173,530 | 100% |
| 0 to 14 years | 28,938 | 16.7% |
| 15 to 64 years | 113,061 | 65.1% |
| 65 years and older | 31,531 | 18.2% |
| Median age | 39 years | – |
Analysis:
- The largest demographic is the 15 to 64 age group, forming over two-thirds of the population, indicating a strong workforce base.
- Seniors make up nearly one-fifth of the population, underscoring the importance of healthcare, retirement planning, and age-friendly infrastructure.
- The median age of 39 years suggests Brantford is slightly younger than some other Ontario communities with older age averages.
Housing, Density, and Area Stats for Brantford
The 2021 census data provides valuable insight into Brantford’s housing and density trends:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Population (2021) | 144,162 |
| Total private dwellings | 58,047 |
| Private dwellings occupied by usual residents | 56,003 |
| Land area | 1,074.00 km² |
| Population density (2021) | 134.2 per km² |
| National population rank | 30 |
| Ontario population rank | 13 |
Key Takeaways:
- Brantford’s population density is 134.2 people per km², much lower than Ontario’s major urban centres, providing a balance between city living and open space.
- Housing occupancy rates are high, with over 96% of dwellings inhabited by permanent residents, indicating stability in the local housing market.
- Growth since 2021 has been significant, adding nearly 29,000 residents by 2024.
Demographics – Racial & Ethnic Composition of Brantford
Brantford is home to a diverse and growing population, enriched by multiple cultural backgrounds.
Visible Minority Population (2021)
| Ethnic Group | Population | % of Total Population |
|---|---|---|
| Total visible minority population | 18,370 | 12.7% |
| South Asian | 7,065 | 4.9% |
| Chinese | 780 | 0.5% |
| Black | 4,215 | 2.9% |
| Filipino | 1,385 | 1.0% |
| Arab | 740 | 0.5% |
| Latin American | 1,105 | 0.8% |
| Southeast Asian | 1,230 | 0.9% |
| West Asian | 285 | 0.2% |
| Korean | 340 | 0.2% |
| Japanese | 100 | 0.07% |
| Visible minority, n.i.e. | 430 | 0.3% |
| Multiple visible minorities | 705 | 0.5% |
| Not a visible minority | 123,535 | 87.3% |
Observations:
- The South Asian community is Brantford’s largest visible minority group, followed by the Black population.
- Cultural diversity is steadily increasing, with immigration and second-generation Canadians enriching the city’s social fabric.
- While the majority of residents identify as not belonging to a visible minority, multiculturalism continues to play a significant role in Brantford’s identity.
FAQ
Brantford’s population in 2024 is 173,530, making up 1.08% of Ontario’s total population.
The median age in Brantford is 39 years, reflecting a balanced mix of younger and older residents.
Visible minorities account for about 12.7% of Brantford’s residents, with South Asian, Black, and Filipino communities being the largest groups.
In 2021, Brantford’s population density was 134.2 people per square kilometre.
Yes, the city has grown from 144,162 residents in 2021 to 173,530 in 2024, showing strong and consistent growth.
Source:
- Statistics Canada. Table 17-10-0148-01 Population estimates, July 1, by census metropolitan area and census agglomeration, 2021 boundaries
- Statistics Canada. Table 98-10-0005-01 Population and dwelling counts: Canada, provinces and territories, census metropolitan areas and census agglomerations
- Statistics Canada. Table 98-10-0351-01 Visible minority by gender and age: Canada, provinces and territories

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