According to the 2021 Census, the town of Gambo, Newfoundland and Labrador recorded a population of 1,816, down from 1,978 in 2016, marking a population decline of 8.2% (162 fewer residents).
With a land area of 93.03 km², the town’s population density stands at 19.5 people per km², reflecting its small-town, rural character.
Population Growth Trends
Between 2016 and 2021, Gambo’s population decreased by 8.2%. This decline contrasts with modest growth in other parts of Newfoundland and Labrador. Outmigration, aging demographics, and limited new immigration contributed to the decrease.
Age Distribution
The median age in Gambo is 52.4 years, significantly higher than the national median (41.6), showing an aging population. Nearly 3 in 10 residents (29.2%) are seniors aged 65+, while only 13.5% are children under 15.
Age Distribution in Gambo (2021)
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 245 | 13.5% |
| 15–64 years | 1,040 | 57.3% |
| 65+ years | 530 | 29.2% |
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Gambo had 967 private dwellings, of which 807 were occupied by usual residents. The average household size is 2.3 people. Most homes are single-detached houses (745 units), highlighting the town’s low-density housing character.
Household size breakdown:
- 1-person households: 200
- 2-person households: 385
- 3-person households: 105
- 4-person households: 75
- 5+ person households: 40
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity & Language)
Gambo is a predominantly English-speaking community.
- English only: 1,790
- English and French bilingual: 25
- Indigenous identity: 55 (mainly First Nations and Inuit)
- Visible minority population: 0
Ethnic/cultural origins reported include English (635), Irish (360), Canadian (550), and Scottish (50). A strong sense of “Newfoundlander” identity is also evident, with 180 people identifying as such.
Income & Poverty
The economic picture shows moderate household incomes:
- Median household income (2020): $58,800
- Median after-tax household income: $53,200
- Two-or-more person households: $70,500 median income
- One-person households: $28,200 median income
However, 20.6% of residents live in low income (after tax, LIM-AT), with higher prevalence among seniors (32.8%).
Education
Educational attainment reflects limited postsecondary completion compared to urban centres:
| Education Level | Population (15+) |
|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma/degree | 315 |
| High school diploma or equivalent | 505 |
| Postsecondary (college, trades, or university) | 765 |
Only 100 residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, while trades and college diplomas make up the majority of postsecondary qualifications.
Employment
In 2021, Gambo had an employment rate of 36.0% and a high unemployment rate of 26.0%.
Employment sectors:
- Health care & social assistance: 155
- Sales & service: 200
- Trades, transport & equipment operators: 190
- Education, law, social/community services: 90
- Manufacturing: 50
- Construction: 105
This reflects reliance on public services and skilled trades.
Commuting & Transportation
Of employed residents:
- Car, truck, or van: 455 (drivers 410, passengers 45)
- Walking: 45
- Public transit: 10
- Other methods: 20
Commute duration:
- Less than 15 minutes: 250
- 30–44 minutes: 160
- 60+ minutes: 35
The majority travel within or near Gambo, with some commuting to other parts of the division or province.
Conclusion
Gambo’s 2021 Census profile highlights a declining and aging population, with nearly one-third of residents aged 65+. While household incomes are moderate, poverty rates remain high, particularly among seniors. Employment is concentrated in trades, services, and public sectors, with relatively low levels of higher education attainment.
A unique characteristic of Gambo is its strong local heritage identity, with many residents identifying as “Newfoundlander” alongside traditional English and Irish roots.
FAQ
The population of Gambo was 1,816 in 2021, down from 1,978 in 2016.
Gambo’s population declined by 8.2% between 2016 and 2021.
The median age in Gambo is 52.4 years, reflecting an aging community.
There were 807 occupied private dwellings in 2021, with an average household size of 2.3.
Key employment sectors include health care, sales and service, construction, and trades-related occupations.
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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