The town of Cape St. George, Newfoundland and Labrador, recorded a population of 809 in the 2021 Census of Population. This represents a decline of 5.2% from its 2016 population of 853, a decrease of 44 residents over five years. With a land area of 34.47 km², the town had a population density of 23.5 persons per km² in 2021, highlighting its small-town and rural character.
Population Growth Trends
Cape St. George has experienced modest population shifts over recent decades, with the most recent census showing a decline of 5.2% between 2016 and 2021. This trend reflects challenges common to smaller Newfoundland and Labrador communities, including outmigration and aging demographics.
Age Distribution
The median age in Cape St. George is 54.0 years, significantly higher than the provincial median, reflecting a large senior population.
Age Breakdown
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 105 | 13.0% |
| 15–64 years | 480 | 59.3% |
| 65+ years | 225 | 27.8% |
With over one-quarter of residents aged 65 and older, the community faces demographic pressures tied to aging and retirement.
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Cape St. George had 433 total private dwellings, of which 380 were occupied by usual residents. Most households were single-detached houses (370), and the average household size was 2.1 persons.
| Household Size | Number of Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 115 |
| 2 persons | 160 |
| 3 persons | 60 |
| 4 persons | 25 |
| 5+ persons | 20 |
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
Cape St. George has a distinct cultural identity, with a strong Indigenous presence. According to the 2021 Census (sample data), 525 residents identified as Indigenous, mostly First Nations (475 people) and Inuit (20 people). The community also reported significant Mi’kmaq ancestry, with 260 people identifying as Mi’kmaq, and many others reporting French heritage.
Indigenous Identity
| Identity Group | Population |
|---|---|
| First Nations | 475 |
| Inuit | 20 |
| Métis | 0 |
| Other/Multiple | 30 |
This deep Indigenous and French cultural heritage contributes to the town’s bilingual character, where both English and French are widely spoken.
Income & Poverty
Income levels in Cape St. George are relatively modest compared to national averages.
- Median total income (individuals, 2020): $24,800
- Median household income (2020): $45,200
- Median after-tax household income: $43,600
- Median family income (2020): $58,800
Low-Income Status (LIM-AT, 2020)
- Overall low-income prevalence: 30.2%
- Children (0–17 years): 24.0%
- Adults (18–64 years): 22.0%
- Seniors (65+ years): 49.0%
Poverty is particularly concentrated among seniors, with nearly half of residents aged 65 and older living in low income.
Education
Educational attainment remains a challenge in Cape St. George, with a significant share of adults lacking formal credentials.
| Highest Education Level | Population (15+) |
|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma/degree | 350 |
| High school diploma | 210 |
| Postsecondary certificate/diploma | 160 |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | 25 |
Trades and college-level education dominate postsecondary achievement, with relatively few university graduates.
Employment
The town’s workforce participation is below provincial averages.
- Labour force participation rate: 40.1%
- Employment rate: 31.3%
- Unemployment rate: 22.0%
Leading Occupations
- Trades, transport & equipment operators: 100 workers
- Education, law, social/community services: 55 workers
- Sales & service: 55 workers
- Health occupations: 30 workers
Key Industries
- Health care & social assistance: 55
- Construction: 35
- Retail trade: 30
- Education services: 35
- Accommodation & food services: 25
- Public administration: 20
The economy relies on a mix of trades, health care, education, and public services.
Commuting & Transportation
Commuting patterns in Cape St. George reflect its rural setting.
| Mode of Transport | Workers |
|---|---|
| Car, truck, or van | 170 |
| Walked | 20 |
| Other methods | 20 |
| Public transit | 0 |
Most residents rely on personal vehicles, with very limited use of transit options. Average commute times vary, with 100 people commuting less than 15 minutes, while 65 people commute 45 minutes or longer.
Conclusion
The population of Cape St. George in 2021 was 809, marking a decline from 2016 and highlighting demographic challenges, including a high median age of 54.0 years and significant outmigration. The community is distinguished by its strong Mi’kmaq and French heritage, modest incomes, and reliance on trades, health care, and education sectors. Its cultural identity and bilingualism make it a unique town within Newfoundland and Labrador.
FAQ
The population of Cape St. George was 809 in 2021.
The town’s population declined by 5.2% between 2016 and 2021.
The median age is 54.0 years, reflecting an older population.
There were 380 occupied private households in 2021.
Key industries include health care, education, construction, 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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