In 2021, the town of Harbour Breton, Newfoundland and Labrador recorded a population of 1,477, according to Statistics Canada. This reflects a decline of 9.6% compared to 2016, when the population stood at 1,634. The town covers a land area of 13.82 km², resulting in a population density of 106.9 persons per km².
Population Growth Trends
Harbour Breton has experienced a population decline over the last census period, losing 157 residents between 2016 and 2021. This decline highlights demographic challenges common to many small coastal communities in Newfoundland and Labrador, including out-migration and aging populations.
Age Distribution
The town has an average age of 47.5 and a median age of 52.0, significantly older than the national median of 41.6. Seniors (65+) make up 25.1% of the population, while children (0–14) account for just 11.9%.
Age Distribution Table:
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 175 | 11.9% |
| 15–64 years | 930 | 63.1% |
| 65+ years | 370 | 25.1% |
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Harbour Breton had 699 private dwellings, of which 632 were occupied by usual residents. The average household size was 2.3 people.
Household sizes were distributed as follows:
- 1-person households: 140
- 2-person households: 280
- 3-person households: 125
- 4-person households: 60
- 5+ person households: 30
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
Harbour Breton is a predominantly English-speaking community, with nearly all residents identifying as non-visible minority and of European descent. Census data shows English (1,455) as the primary mother tongue, with very small representation of other languages (e.g., Arabic). A small Indigenous population is present, with 50 residents reporting Indigenous identity, primarily Métis or Inuit ancestry.
Ethnic / Cultural Origins (selected):
| Origin | Population |
|---|---|
| Canadian | 805 |
| English | 295 |
| Irish | 130 |
| Scottish | 20 |
| French (n.o.s) | 50 |
| Newfoundlander | 80 |
Income & Poverty
Median household income in 2020 was $72,500, with an after-tax median of $63,600. Two-or-more-person households had much higher incomes ($85,000 median) compared to one-person households ($27,800).
Despite relatively strong household incomes, poverty affects 16.4% of the population based on the Low-Income Measure (LIM-AT). Seniors (65+) are particularly impacted, with a poverty rate of 37.5%.
Education
Educational attainment is lower than provincial and national averages. Among residents aged 15 and older:
- 475 had no certificate, diploma, or degree.
- 385 held a high school diploma.
- 420 completed postsecondary education.
- Only 90 had a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Highest Education Table:
| Education Level | Population |
|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma/degree | 475 |
| High school diploma | 385 |
| Postsecondary (non-degree) | 330 |
| Bachelor’s or higher | 90 |
Employment
In 2021, 58% of the population aged 15+ participated in the labour force, with an employment rate of 49% and an unemployment rate of 15.4%, significantly higher than the national average.
Leading Occupations:
- Trades, transport, and equipment operators: 140
- Sales and service: 135
- Natural resources, agriculture, fishing: 125
- Health, education, and government: 170 combined
Key Industries (NAICS):
- Health care & social assistance: 150 workers
- Fishing, hunting, forestry: 125 workers
- Manufacturing: 90 workers
- Retail trade: 60 workers
Commuting & Transportation
Most residents rely on private vehicles for commuting.
Commuting Mode Table:
| Mode | Population |
|---|---|
| Car, truck, van | 515 |
| Public transit | 10 |
| Walked | 25 |
| Other methods | 25 |
| Bicycle | 0 |
Commute times are relatively short: 78% of workers travel under 15 minutes to work.
Conclusion
Harbour Breton’s 2021 Census profile reveals a shrinking and aging population, with strong ties to traditional industries such as fishing and resource extraction. While household incomes are relatively healthy, high unemployment and senior poverty remain challenges. The town’s unique cultural identity, strong family structures, and reliance on natural resource industries define its demographic and economic landscape.
FAQ
The population of Harbour Breton was 1,477 in 2021.
The town’s population declined by 9.6% between 2016 and 2021.
The median age is 52.0 years, reflecting an older population.
There were 632 occupied private dwellings in 2021.
Fishing, health care, social assistance, and resource-based industries are key employers.
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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