In 2021, Division No. 1, Subd. L, a small unorganized subdivision in Newfoundland and Labrador, recorded a total population of 874. This marks a decline of 5.8% compared to the 928 residents in 2016, a loss of 54 people over five years.
The land area of the subdivision measures 8.10 square kilometres, resulting in a relatively high population density of 107.9 persons per km². Despite its small size, Division No. 1, Subd. L offers insights into rural living patterns, aging demographics, and economic conditions in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Population Growth Trends
Between 2016 and 2021, Division No. 1, Subd. L experienced a population decline of 5.8%. This reflects broader rural depopulation trends in certain parts of Newfoundland and Labrador, where younger residents often migrate toward larger towns or provinces for education and work.
Age Distribution
The community has a median age of 50.4 years and an average age of 46.9, both above the national average, showing its aging population structure.
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 135 | 15.4% |
| 15–64 years | 480 | 54.9% |
| 65+ years | 265 | 30.3% |
Seniors make up nearly one-third of the population, a key demographic characteristic shaping healthcare, housing, and community needs.
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Division No. 1, Subd. L had 463 private dwellings, of which 372 were occupied. Nearly all homes are single-detached houses, reflecting a traditional rural settlement pattern.
| Household Size | Number of Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 90 |
| 2 persons | 170 |
| 3 persons | 40 |
| 4 persons | 45 |
| 5+ persons | 30 |
The average household size was 2.4 persons per household, close to the provincial average.
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity & Identity)
The population is overwhelmingly English-speaking and non-immigrant. In 2021, nearly 99% reported English as their mother tongue, with French spoken at home by only a handful of people.
Indigenous identity was reported by 45 residents, primarily Métis. The visible minority population was recorded as 0, underscoring the community’s limited diversity.
| Ethnic or Cultural Origin | Population |
|---|---|
| English | 370 |
| Canadian | 225 |
| Irish | 110 |
| Scottish | 55 |
| Newfoundlander | 80 |
| Métis | 20 |
| Other (minor groups) | <20 |
Income & Poverty
In 2020, the median household income was $65,000, with an after-tax median of $56,000. One-person households earned significantly less, with a median income of $29,000, while two-or-more-person households reported $80,000.
Poverty, measured by the Low-Income Measure (LIM-AT), affected 18.6% of residents. Seniors were particularly impacted, with 31.6% of those aged 65+ living in low income.
| Income Group | Median Income (2020) |
|---|---|
| Households (all) | $65,000 |
| One-person households | $29,000 |
| Two-or-more-person households | $80,000 |
| Economic families | $79,500 |
Education
Educational attainment is modest compared to provincial and national averages.
| Education Level | Population (15+ yrs) |
|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma/degree | 205 |
| High school diploma | 245 |
| Postsecondary (non-university) | 220 |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | 70 |
Only 9% of residents aged 25–64 held a bachelor’s degree or higher, while a large proportion had college diplomas or trades certifications.
Employment
Division No. 1, Subd. L had an employment rate of 39.9% in 2021, with an unemployment rate of 15.9%, reflecting limited labour market opportunities.
Leading occupations included:
- Sales & service (80 workers)
- Natural resources, agriculture, fishing & related production (65 workers)
- Education, law, social and community services (50 workers)
- Trades, transport, and equipment operation (40 workers)
Industry employment was strongest in agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting (80 workers) and manufacturing (45 workers).
Commuting & Transportation
Most employed residents commute by car, truck, or van (88%), with a small portion walking (6%). Public transit use is nonexistent due to the rural context.
| Commute Mode | Workers |
|---|---|
| Car/truck/van | 225 |
| Walk | 15 |
| Other | 15 |
The majority of commutes were under 15 minutes (175 people), showing residents typically work nearby or in neighbouring communities.
Conclusion
Division No. 1, Subd. L is a small rural community of 874 residents marked by population decline, an aging demographic, and strong reliance on natural resource industries. The median household income of $65,000 provides stability, though nearly 1 in 5 residents live in poverty, especially seniors.
The community is unique for its Newfoundlander identity, strong local heritage, and traditional reliance on fishing and resource-based work.
FAQ
The population was 874 in 2021, down 5.8% from 2016.
The population is shrinking, with a loss of 54 people between 2016 and 2021.
The median age is 50.4 years, reflecting an older population than the national average.
There were 372 occupied private dwellings in 2021, with an average household size of 2.4 people.
Fishing, agriculture, manufacturing, sales, and service jobs are the leading employment sectors.
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
Recent Comments