According to the 2021 Census of Population, Division No. 4, Subd. E in Newfoundland and Labrador recorded a population of 1,467 people. This marked a sharp decline of 25% (-490 residents) from the 2016 population of 1,957.
The subdivision spans a land area of 295.42 km², resulting in a population density of just 5.0 people per square kilometre. This makes it a sparsely populated rural area with significant demographic challenges, including an aging population and out-migration.
Population Growth Trends
Between 2016 and 2021, Division No. 4, Subd. E lost one in four residents, reflecting a substantial demographic shift. Declines of this magnitude highlight long-standing rural depopulation trends seen across parts of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Age Distribution
The median age in 2021 was 54.0 years, much higher than the provincial median of 48.4, showing a significantly older local population.
Age breakdown:
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 175 | 11.9% |
| 15–64 years | 900 | 61.4% |
| 65+ years | 385 | 26.3% |
The population over 65 accounts for more than one-quarter of all residents, pointing to both aging and youth out-migration.
Households & Dwellings
Division No. 4, Subd. E contained 864 private dwellings, of which 709 were occupied in 2021.
Household size distribution:
| Household Size | Number of Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 240 |
| 2 persons | 295 |
| 3 persons | 90 |
| 4 persons | 55 |
| 5+ persons | 25 |
The average household size was 2.1 persons, with nearly 34% of households consisting of one person living alone.
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
The community is predominantly Indigenous and non-visible minority. According to the census, 780 people identified as Indigenous, primarily First Nations, while 685 were non-Indigenous.
Ethnic and cultural origins frequently reported included:
- French (445)
- English (245)
- Irish (195)
- First Nations (265, n.o.s.)
- Mi’kmaq (270)
- Newfoundlander (35)
Visible minority groups were negligible (0 reported).
Summary table:
| Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Indigenous | 780 | 53.2% |
| Non-Indigenous | 685 | 46.8% |
| Visible Minority | 0 | 0.0% |
Income & Poverty
Income levels in 2020 were low compared to provincial averages.
- Median individual income: $25,400
- Median household income: $42,000
- Median economic family income: $57,200
Poverty indicators:
- 34.4% of residents lived in low income (LIM-AT)
- For seniors 65+, the poverty rate was 53.2%
Income distribution (15+ years):
| Income Range | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Under $20,000 | 415 | 32.3% |
| $20k–$39,999 | 550 | 42.8% |
| $40k+ | 320 | 24.9% |
Education
Educational attainment shows limited postsecondary completion.
Highest certificate, diploma or degree (15+ years):
| Education Level | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma/degree | 530 | 42.3% |
| High school diploma | 370 | 29.5% |
| Postsecondary (non-university) | 310 | 24.7% |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | 40 | 3.2% |
This reflects an education profile oriented toward trades and non-university training.
Employment
Labour force indicators reveal high unemployment.
- Participation rate: 39.4%
- Employment rate: 28.7%
- Unemployment rate: 27.3%
Top industries of employment:
- Health care and social assistance: 100
- Education services: 40
- Trades, transport, and equipment operators: 90
- Agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting: 95
Commuting & Transportation
Among employed residents:
| Mode of Commuting | Number | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Car, truck, van | 270 | 88.5% |
| Walk | 15 | 4.9% |
| Other method | 20 | 6.6% |
| Public transit | 0 | 0.0% |
Average commute times varied, with 33% commuting under 15 minutes and 20% commuting over an hour, showing a mix of local and regional work travel.
Conclusion
The 2021 Census paints a challenging demographic picture for Division No. 4, Subd. E. With a population decline of 25% since 2016, a median age of 54 years, and over one-third of residents living in low income, sustainability is a concern. However, the strong Indigenous presence, cultural heritage (notably Mi’kmaq communities), and reliance on natural resource industries make this subdivision unique within Newfoundland and Labrador.
FAQ
The population was 1,467, down from 1,957 in 2016.
It is shrinking, with a 25% decline over five years.
The median age is 54 years, significantly older than the provincial median.
There were 709 occupied private dwellings in 2021.
Key industries include health care, social assistance, forestry, fishing, trades, and education services.
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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