The City of Burlington, Ontario recorded a population of 186,948 in the 2021 Census, an increase from 183,314 in 2016. This represents a 2.0% growth (+3,634 residents). With a land area of 186.12 km², Burlington has a population density of 1,004.4 residents per km². Known for its scenic lakefront, family-oriented communities, and strong economic base, Burlington offers both suburban and urban amenities within the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA).
Population Growth Trends
Burlington’s growth has slowed compared to nearby Oakville and Milton, reflecting a more mature housing market.
| Year | Population | Change | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 183,314 | – | – |
| 2021 | 186,948 | +3,634 | +2.0% |
Age Distribution
Burlington has a relatively older population, with a median age of 44.4 years. Seniors (65+) represent over one-fifth of the city’s residents.
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 29,900 | 16.0% |
| 15–64 years | 117,870 | 63.1% |
| 65+ years | 39,180 | 21.0% |
Households & Dwellings
Burlington’s housing stock is a mix of single-detached houses and multi-unit buildings. The average household size is 2.5 persons, reflecting its balance of families and seniors.
- Total private dwellings: 74,891
- Occupied dwellings: 73,180
- Average household size: 2.5
Household size
| Household Size | Households | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | 18,430 | 25.2% |
| 2 persons | 24,680 | 33.7% |
| 3 persons | 11,865 | 16.2% |
| 4 persons | 12,670 | 17.3% |
| 5+ persons | 5,535 | 7.6% |
Dwelling type
| Structure Type | Count |
|---|---|
| Single-detached house | 36,795 |
| Semi-detached house | 3,090 |
| Row house | 13,725 |
| Duplex | 705 |
| Apartment <5 storeys | 5,910 |
| Apartment ≥5 storeys | 12,830 |
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
The 2021 Census shows Burlington as a majority White community, though growing diversity is evident. Visible minorities include South Asian, Chinese, and Black populations, with immigrants adding to cultural vibrancy.
(Exact B03002 visible minority counts can be added if available.)
| Visible Minority Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| White (not visible minority) | ~140,000+ | ~75% |
| South Asian | ~10,000 | ~5% |
| Chinese | ~7,500 | ~4% |
| Black | ~5,000 | ~3% |
| Other groups (Filipino, Arab, Latin American, etc.) | ~15,000 | ~8% |
Immigration
Immigrants make up a significant share of Burlington’s residents, with many arriving through the economic class or family sponsorship.
Immigrant status
| Status | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Canadian citizens | 172,010 | 93.5% |
| Not Canadian citizens | 11,950 | 6.5% |
Admission category (1980–2021)
| Category | Number | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Economic immigrants | 19,610 | 59.0% |
| — Principal applicants | 7,565 | 22.8% |
| — Secondary applicants | 12,040 | 36.2% |
| Family-sponsored | 8,725 | 26.3% |
| Refugees | 4,650 | 14.0% |
| Other immigrants | 240 | 0.7% |
Income & Poverty
Burlington ranks among Ontario’s more affluent cities, with low poverty rates compared to the national average.
- Median household income (2020): $110,000
- Median after-tax household income: $94,000
- Median family income (2020): $134,000
- Median one-person household income: $54,000
- Low-income rate (LIM-AT, 2020): 5.9%
| Income Group | Median ($) |
|---|---|
| Households (all) | 110,000 |
| After-tax households | 94,000 |
| Couple with children | 172,000 |
| One-parent family | 87,000 |
| One-person household | 54,000 |
Education
Burlington residents are highly educated, with a strong share holding university degrees.
| Highest Education (15+) | Number | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma/degree | 16,595 | 10.8% |
| High school diploma | 38,855 | 25.2% |
| Postsecondary (any) | 98,630 | 64.0% |
| — Bachelor’s degree or higher | 54,880 | 35.6% |
Employment
The Burlington workforce is diverse, with major employment in sales & service, business/finance, health, and education.
- Participation rate: 65.0%
- Employment rate: 58.1%
- Unemployment rate: 10.7%
Top occupations
- Sales & service (24,630)
- Business, finance & administration (20,930)
- Education, law, social & government services (12,345)
- Trades, transport & equipment operators (12,230)
Top industries
- Retail trade (11,755)
- Health care & social assistance (10,925)
- Professional, scientific & technical services (11,210)
- Manufacturing (8,850)
- Educational services (8,395)
Commuting & Transportation
Burlington is a commuter city within the GTHA. The majority of residents drive to work, though GO Transit and local transit play growing roles.
| Mode of Transport | Percent (est.) |
|---|---|
| Car (driver/passenger) | ~80% |
| Public transit | ~10% |
| Walking | ~5% |
| Cycling & other | ~5% |
Conclusion
Burlington’s 186,948 residents in 2021 reflect modest 2.0% growth since 2016. With a median age of 44.4, the city has a more mature population compared to other GTA municipalities. High incomes, low poverty, and strong education levels make Burlington a stable and prosperous community. Its lakefront lifestyle and proximity to Toronto set it apart as a highly desirable city for families and retirees alike.
FAQ
The population of Burlington in 2021 was 186,948.
It is growing, up 2.0% from 2016 to 2021.
The median age is 44.4 years.
There are 73,180 occupied private dwellings.
Key industries include retail, health care, professional services, manufacturing, and education.
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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