Burin, Newfoundland and Labrador Population

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According to the 2021 Census of Population, the town of Burin, Newfoundland and Labrador, recorded a population of 2,237. This represents a decline of 3.4% from 2016, when the town had 2,315 residents.

Burin covers a land area of 34.49 km², resulting in a population density of 64.9 people per km². Known as part of the Burin Peninsula, the community has a history rooted in the fishery and continues to balance tradition with modern growth challenges.

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Population Growth Trends

Between 2016 and 2021, Burin’s population decreased by 78 residents. This decline reflects broader rural trends across parts of Newfoundland and Labrador, where out-migration and aging populations impact growth.

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Age Distribution

Burin’s population is older than the provincial average, with a median age of 51.2 years and an average age of 46.8 years. Nearly one in four residents (24.8%) are seniors aged 65 and older.

Age Distribution Table (2021):

Age Group	Population	Percent
0–14 years	280	12.5%
15–64 years	1,405	62.9%
65+ years	555	24.8%

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Households & Dwellings

In 2021, Burin had 1,155 private dwellings, of which 1,008 were occupied by usual residents.

• Average household size: 2.2 persons
• Most common housing type: Single-detached houses (91%)
• One-person households: 265 (26%)

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Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)

Burin is a predominantly English-speaking, non-visible minority community. The town had only 30 visible minority residents in 2021, alongside 20 people identifying as Indigenous (First Nations).

Visible Minority & Indigenous Identity (2021):

Group	Population	Percent
Not a visible minority	2,205	98.7%
Visible minority	30	1.3%
Indigenous identity	20	0.9%

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Income & Poverty

In 2020, Burin’s economic profile showed moderate household earnings:

• Median household income (2020): $66,500
• Median after-tax household income: $58,000
• Two-person+ households median income: $85,000
• One-person households median income: $29,000

Poverty (LIM-AT, 2020):

• Overall: 17.6% of residents lived in low income.
• Seniors 65+: 31.6% were in low income.

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Education

Educational attainment in Burin skews toward trades and college diplomas:

• No certificate/diploma/degree: 26.8%
• High school diploma only: 22.2%
• Postsecondary: 51% (most common: college/trades)
• University degree (Bachelor’s or higher): 8%

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Employment

Labour force participation in Burin is below national levels:

• Employment rate: 45.7%
• Unemployment rate: 18.3%
• Participation rate: 55.9%

Top Occupations:

• Sales and service (26%)
• Trades, transport, and equipment operators (25%)
• Health occupations (10%)
• Education, law, community, and government services (15%)

Leading Industries:

• Health care and social assistance (260 workers)
• Retail trade (190 workers)
• Trades and construction (160 workers)
• Public administration (55 workers)

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Commuting & Transportation

Burin residents rely heavily on private vehicles to get to work:

• Car, truck, or van: 94%
• Walking: 2%
• Public transit: 0%
• Other methods: 4%

Commute Times:

• Less than 30 minutes: 80%
• 30–59 minutes: 13%
• 60+ minutes: 8%

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Conclusion

The town of Burin experienced a modest population decline between 2016 and 2021, reflecting rural demographic challenges in Newfoundland. With a median age of 51.2 years, a significant senior population, and reliance on traditional industries like health care, retail, and trades, Burin faces both challenges and opportunities.

A unique characteristic of Burin is its deep historical ties to the fishery, which continue to shape its identity while the community adapts to modern economic realities.

FAQ

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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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