Charlottetown, the capital and largest city of Prince Edward Island, continues to be the province’s primary hub for culture, education, and economic activity. In 2024, Charlottetown’s population reached 93,877, making it home to more than 52.6% of the province’s total population of 178,550. This means over half of all Islanders live in Charlottetown, underlining its role as the province’s urban and administrative centre.
Total Population
93,877
Median Age
38.2 years
Land Area
1,112.43 km²
Charlottetown Population by Age
The city shows a balanced yet aging demographic profile:
- 0 to 14 years: 13,165 residents
- 15 to 64 years: 63,548 residents
- 65 years and older: 17,164 residents
- Median age: 38.2 years
While a significant portion of residents (67.7%) are working-age adults, seniors make up 18.3% of the population, reflecting the city’s growing older demographic. The relatively young median age of 38.2 years highlights that Charlottetown remains a youthful and dynamic city compared to many smaller towns across Atlantic Canada.
Housing, Density, and Area Stats for Charlottetown
From the 2021 Census, Charlottetown had:
- Population (2021): 78,858
- Total private dwellings: 36,359
- Private dwellings occupied by usual residents: 32,943
- Land area: 1,112.43 km²
- Population density (2021): 70.9 per km²
- National population rank (2021): 48th largest urban area in Canada
- Provincial population rank (2021): 1st in PEI
Between 2021 and 2024, Charlottetown grew by over 15,000 people, reflecting both immigration and local migration trends as newcomers increasingly choose the city for its quality of life, affordability, and strong educational institutions.
Charlottetown Demographics – Racial & Ethnic Composition
Charlottetown is the most ethnically diverse city in Prince Edward Island, home to a growing immigrant population that adds to its cultural richness. While the majority of residents identify as not belonging to a visible minority group (66,325 people, or 70.7%), the city has seen significant growth in communities of South Asian, Chinese, and Black heritage.
Visible Minority Breakdown in Charlottetown (2024)
| Ethnic Group | Population | Percent of Total Population |
|---|---|---|
| South Asian | 3,055 | 3.3% |
| Chinese | 2,870 | 3.1% |
| Black | 1,510 | 1.6% |
| Filipino | 525 | 0.6% |
| Arab | 1,005 | 1.1% |
| Latin American | 455 | 0.5% |
| Southeast Asian | 885 | 0.9% |
| West Asian | 275 | 0.3% |
| Korean | 95 | 0.1% |
| Japanese | 155 | 0.2% |
| Visible minority (n.i.e.) | 105 | 0.1% |
| Multiple visible minorities | 115 | 0.1% |
| Not a visible minority | 66,325 | 70.7% |
This increasing cultural diversity strengthens Charlottetown’s reputation as a welcoming and inclusive city, supported by international students, skilled workers, and newcomers contributing to the economy and community life.
FAQ
The population of Charlottetown in 2024 is 93,877, which represents 52.6% of Prince Edward Island’s total population.
Yes, Charlottetown has experienced strong population growth, adding more than 15,000 new residents since 2021, driven largely by immigration and urban migration within PEI.
The median age in Charlottetown is 38.2 years, reflecting a youthful and economically active population with a balanced mix of seniors and working-age residents.
Charlottetown is home to significant visible minority groups, with 29.3% of the population identifying as part of a minority community, led by South Asian, Chinese, and Black residents.
As of 2021, Charlottetown’s population density was 70.9 people per square kilometre across a land area of 1,112.43 km². This density has increased further with 2024’s population 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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