According to the 2021 Census of Population, the town of Burgeo, Newfoundland and Labrador recorded a population of 1,176 residents. This represents a decline of 10.0% (a loss of 131 people) compared to its population of 1,307 in 2016.
Burgeo spans a land area of 29.51 km², giving it a population density of 39.9 people per km². With a high median age of 60.4 years, Burgeo is one of the older communities in the province, reflecting both outmigration of younger residents and a strong presence of seniors.
Population Growth Trends
Burgeo has experienced population decline over recent census periods. Between 2016 and 2021, the town lost 131 residents, equivalent to a 10% decrease. This decline reflects a long-term trend in many small coastal communities across Newfoundland and Labrador, driven by limited employment opportunities and aging demographics.
Age Distribution
The population of Burgeo is notably older than the national average. The median age is 60.4 years, significantly higher than the Canadian median of 41.9 years.
Age Breakdown
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 80 | 6.8% |
| 15–64 years | 640 | 54.5% |
| 65+ years | 455 | 38.7% |
Nearly 39% of residents are seniors (65+), underscoring Burgeo’s aging population profile.
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Burgeo contained 660 private dwellings, of which 571 were occupied by usual residents.
- Average household size: 2.0 persons
- Single-detached homes: 550 (dominant housing type)
- Household sizes: majority are two-person households (56%)
This indicates a community structure where couples and small households are most common.
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
Burgeo’s population is overwhelmingly English-speaking, with 1,150 residents reporting English as their mother tongue. The community is not ethnically diverse compared to national averages.
- Indigenous identity: 200 people (approx. 17%) identified as Indigenous, primarily First Nations and Métis.
- Visible minority population: just 10 residents.
Indigenous & Visible Minority Population
| Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Indigenous Identity | 200 | 17% |
| Visible Minority | 10 | <1% |
| Non-Indigenous | 955 | 82% |
Income & Poverty
Burgeo has relatively modest incomes compared to national figures.
- Median household income (2020): $50,800
- Median after-tax household income: $47,200
- Median individual income (2020): $27,200
Poverty
- Low-income rate (LIM-AT): 27.9% overall
- Among seniors (65+): nearly 49% live in low income
- Child poverty (under 17): 20%
This highlights significant economic vulnerability, particularly among older residents.
Education
Burgeo’s education levels are below the Canadian average.
- No certificate/diploma/degree: 350 adults (32%)
- High school only: 345 (32%)
- Postsecondary education: 385 (36%)
- Trades/apprenticeship: 85
- College/CEGEP: 220
- Bachelor’s degree or higher: 60
Education Levels
| Education Level | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma | 350 | 32% |
| High school | 345 | 32% |
| Postsecondary | 385 | 36% |
Employment
Burgeo’s labour market reflects both its small size and aging population.
- Participation rate: 42.6%
- Employment rate: 32.9%
- Unemployment rate: 21.7% (well above national average of 7.5%)
Leading Industries
| Industry Sector | Employment |
|---|---|
| Health care & social assistance | 115 |
| Trades, transport & equipment | 120 |
| Sales & service | 105 |
| Education services | 25 |
| Public administration | 40 |
| Fishing/forestry | 45 |
Health care, trades, and public services dominate Burgeo’s economy, reflecting its role as a service centre for residents and nearby communities.
Commuting & Transportation
Burgeo is a compact community with limited commuting distances.
- Main mode of commuting: 265 residents (83%) use a car, truck, or van.
- Walking: 30 residents (9%) walk to work.
- Public transit: not available.
Commute Duration
| Commute Time | Population |
|---|---|
| Less than 15 minutes | 250 |
| 15–29 minutes | 35 |
| 30–44 minutes | 15 |
| 45+ minutes | 20 |
Most residents enjoy very short commutes, consistent with the town’s small geographic footprint.
Conclusion
In 2021, Burgeo recorded a population of 1,176, reflecting a 10% decline since 2016. With a median age of 60.4 years, the community is significantly older than the national average, and nearly 39% of its residents are seniors.
Economic challenges are evident, with median household income at $50,800 and a high poverty rate, particularly among seniors. Despite these issues, Burgeo remains a tight-knit coastal town, with strong Indigenous representation and a local economy centred around health care, trades, and services.
One unique characteristic of Burgeo is its remarkably short commute times, with most residents traveling less than 15 minutes to work, highlighting the small and connected nature of the community.
FAQ
Burgeo’s population was 1,176 in 2021, down 10% from 2016.
Burgeo’s population is shrinking, having declined by 131 residents between 2016 and 2021.
The median age in Burgeo is 60.4 years, among the highest in Newfoundland and Labrador.
There are 571 occupied private dwellings in Burgeo, with an average household size of 2.0 persons.
The leading industries are health care, trades/transport, sales and service, public administration, and fishing/forestry.
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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