According to the 2021 Census, Division No. 4, Subd. D in Newfoundland and Labrador recorded a population of 1,212 residents. This represents an impressive 40.9% increase from the 860 residents counted in 2016. With a land area of 1,148.81 square kilometres, the subdivision had a population density of just 1.1 persons per km², highlighting its rural and sparsely populated character.
Population Growth Trends
The 40.9% growth from 2016 to 2021 signals substantial demographic change, possibly driven by migration, household formation, or local community growth. Such a rise is significantly higher than the provincial average, which has been relatively stable.
Age Distribution
The population is characterized by an older age profile, with a median age of 56.8 years and an average age of 51.5 years. Adults aged 65 and over form nearly a third of the total population.
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 140 | 11.5% |
| 15–64 years | 705 | 58.0% |
| 65+ years | 370 | 30.5% |
Households & Dwellings
Division No. 4, Subd. D contained 990 private dwellings, of which 597 were occupied. The average household size was 2.0 persons per household, and housing is primarily composed of single-detached houses (97.5%).
| Household Size | Number of Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 190 |
| 2 persons | 270 |
| 3 persons | 85 |
| 4 persons | 30 |
| 5+ persons | 15 |
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
The subdivision is overwhelmingly non-visible minority, with Indigenous identity forming a large share of the community. About 625 residents (51%) identify as Indigenous, mainly First Nations and Mi’kmaq, reflecting the strong Indigenous presence in this part of Newfoundland and Labrador.
| Identity Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Indigenous | 625 | 51.6% |
| Non-Indigenous | 590 | 48.6% |
| Visible Minority | 0 | 0% |
Income & Poverty
Income levels are modest compared to national standards. In 2020, the median household income was $47,600 before tax.
- One-person households: $25,800 median income
- Two-or-more-person households: $60,400 median income
- Median total individual income (15+): $27,400
- Prevalence of low income (LIM-AT): 30.4%
This indicates that nearly a third of residents lived in low income, with seniors disproportionately affected (42% of those 65+).
Education
Educational attainment is relatively low, with 265 residents (26%) aged 15+ having no certificate, diploma, or degree. Postsecondary education was achieved by 550 individuals, primarily in trades, college diplomas, or health-related programs. Only 70 people (6.8%) hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
| Education Level | Population (15+) |
|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma/degree | 265 |
| High school diploma/equivalency | 210 |
| Postsecondary below bachelor’s | 480 |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | 70 |
Employment
Labour force participation is limited. Of the 1,025 residents aged 15 and over:
- Labour force participation rate: 45.4%
- Employment rate: 32.2%
- Unemployment rate: 29.0%
Employment is concentrated in trades, transport, equipment operation (120 workers) and health care and social assistance (85 workers), with additional workers in education, natural resources, and construction.
Commuting & Transportation
Most workers commute by car:
| Mode of Commuting | Population |
|---|---|
| Car, truck, or van | 305 |
| Public transit | 0 |
| Walking | 0 |
| Other | 0 |
Commute times are generally short, with 57% traveling under 15 minutes to work. The majority (245 workers) commute to a different community within the same census division.
Conclusion
Division No. 4, Subd. D has experienced remarkable population growth of 40.9% since 2016, driven by its Indigenous community presence and rural character. With a high median age of 56.8 years, low density, and modest income levels, the subdivision represents both opportunities and challenges for sustainable development. Its unique characteristic lies in its strong Indigenous identity, with over half of residents reporting First Nations or Mi’kmaq heritage.
FAQ
The population was 1,212 in 2021, up from 860 in 2016.
It is growing, with a 40.9% increase between 2016 and 2021.
The median age is 56.8 years, making it an older population compared to national averages.
There were 597 occupied private dwellings in 2021.
Trades, transport, equipment operation, health care, education, and natural resources are leading 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
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