Glenwood, a small town in Newfoundland and Labrador, recorded a population of 739 in the 2021 Census. This represents a 5.0% decline from 778 residents in 2016. With a land area of 7.08 km² and a population density of 104.4 people per km², Glenwood maintains a modest community profile within Central Newfoundland.
Population Growth Trends
Between 2016 and 2021, Glenwood lost 39 residents, reversing earlier periods of stability. This reflects broader demographic challenges faced by many rural Newfoundland communities, such as aging populations and outmigration.
Age Distribution
Glenwood’s population is notably older, with a median age of 50.4 years and an average age of 46.2. About one-quarter of residents are seniors (65+), while just 13.5% are children under 15.
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 100 | 13.5% |
| 15–64 years | 455 | 61.5% |
| 65+ years | 180 | 24.3% |
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Glenwood had 361 private dwellings, of which 327 were occupied. Most homes are single-detached houses (275 units), with a smaller number of movable dwellings (45).
Household size data shows that two-person households dominate, reflecting an older population base.
| Household Size | Number of Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 80 |
| 2 persons | 150 |
| 3 persons | 45 |
| 4 persons | 30 |
| 5+ persons | 15 |
| Average household size | 2.3 |
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity & Indigenous Identity)
Glenwood is overwhelmingly English-speaking and non-immigrant. The 2021 Census shows 160 residents identifying as Indigenous (mostly First Nations and Métis), representing about 21.6% of the total population.
| Ethnic / Cultural Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Indigenous identity | 160 | 21.6% |
| Non-Indigenous | 580 | 78.4% |
| Visible minority groups | 0 | 0% |
Income & Poverty
The median household income in Glenwood in 2020 was $65,500 before tax, with two-person households earning higher ($74,500) compared to single-person households ($35,600).
The poverty rate (LIM-AT) stood at 17.6%, with children under 6 (28%) and seniors (29%) being the most affected.
| Income Type | Median Value (2020) |
|---|---|
| Household income (all households) | $65,500 |
| After-tax household income | $57,600 |
| Economic family income | $73,500 |
| One-parent family income | $51,200 |
Education
Educational attainment is modest, with 190 adults (29%) reporting no certificate or diploma. Postsecondary education is largely college or trades-based.
| Education Level | Population (15+) |
|---|---|
| No certificate, diploma, or degree | 190 |
| High school diploma | 170 |
| Postsecondary certificate/diploma | 260 |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | 30 |
Employment
The town’s labour force faced challenges in 2021, with an unemployment rate of 28.8%—significantly higher than the provincial average.
| Employment Status | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Employed | 260 | 40.0% |
| Unemployed | 105 | 28.8% |
| Not in labour force | 285 | 43.8% |
Leading industries include construction, retail trade, healthcare, and trades/transport. Sales & service occupations (125 workers) and trades/transport (100 workers) dominate local employment.
Commuting & Transportation
The vast majority of employed residents commute by car (92%), with 210 as drivers and 25 as passengers. Walking is rare but present (15 workers).
| Commute Duration | Workers |
|---|---|
| <15 minutes | 50 |
| 15–29 minutes | 150 |
| 30–44 minutes | 30 |
| 60+ minutes | 20 |
This reflects Glenwood’s small-town commuting patterns, where most jobs are within or near the region.
Conclusion
Glenwood’s 2021 Census profile shows a small but aging population with a declining trend, a median age of 50.4 years, and notable Indigenous representation. While household incomes are moderate, poverty levels remain above average, and unemployment is high. Glenwood’s identity as a predominantly English-speaking, rural community with strong ties to construction, trades, and healthcare remains its defining feature.
FAQ
The population of Glenwood, NL in 2021 was 739.
Glenwood’s population declined by 5% between 2016 and 2021.
The median age in Glenwood is 50.4 years, reflecting an older population.
There were 327 occupied private households in Glenwood in 2021.
The leading industries include construction, retail trade, healthcare, and trades/transportation.
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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