Hare Bay, a small town in Newfoundland and Labrador, recorded a population of 925 in 2021, according to Statistics Canada. This marks a decline of 4.5% compared to the 969 residents in 2016, a decrease of 44 people over five years.
The town covers a land area of 34.11 km², giving it a population density of 27.1 people per square kilometre. Despite its modest size, Hare Bay’s community is shaped by a strong senior population and traditional Newfoundland cultural roots.
Population Growth Trends
Between 2016 and 2021, Hare Bay experienced a population decline of 4.5%, reversing some earlier population stability. Like many rural communities in Newfoundland, this decrease reflects migration patterns and an aging population.
Age Distribution
Hare Bay has an aging demographic, with a median age of 53.6 years and an average age of 48.8 years. Seniors (65+) represent nearly a third of the town’s residents, while children make up only 12.4%.
Age Distribution in 2021
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 115 | 12.4% |
| 15–64 years | 535 | 57.8% |
| 65+ years | 280 | 30.3% |
This data highlights the town’s mature population profile, with implications for health care, housing, and local services.
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Hare Bay had 453 private dwellings, of which 387 were occupied by usual residents. Housing in the town is largely single-detached homes, reflecting a traditional rural settlement pattern.
Household Size
| Household Size | Number of Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 75 |
| 2 persons | 180 |
| 3 persons | 60 |
| 4 persons | 50 |
| 5+ persons | 20 |
The average household size is 2.4 persons, with couples and two-person households dominating.
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
Hare Bay is overwhelmingly English-speaking and non-immigrant, with nearly all residents identifying as non-visible minority (915 people, 98.9%). A small Indigenous population is present, with about 20 people identifying as First Nations.
Visible Minority & Indigenous Identity (2021)
| Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Indigenous | 20 | 2.2% |
| Visible minority | 10 | 1.1% |
| Not a minority | 915 | 98.9% |
The cultural makeup reflects traditional Newfoundland ancestry, with English, Irish, and Newfoundlander origins common.
Income & Poverty
In 2020, the median household income in Hare Bay was $50,800 before tax and $48,000 after tax. One-person households had a much lower median income of $24,000, while two-or-more person households earned $62,400.
However, the town faces notable poverty challenges. 29.2% of residents were living below the Low-Income Measure (LIM-AT), with seniors particularly affected (48% of residents aged 65+).
Household Income in 2020
| Household Type | Median Total Income |
|---|---|
| All households | $50,800 |
| One-person households | $24,000 |
| Two-or-more person households | $62,400 |
Education
Educational attainment in Hare Bay shows that many residents do not hold postsecondary credentials. Of those aged 15+, 325 had no certificate, diploma, or degree, while 225 had completed postsecondary studies.
Highest Education Level (15+ years)
| Education Level | Population |
|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma | 325 |
| High school diploma | 260 |
| Postsecondary certificate/diploma | 195 |
| Bachelor’s degree+ | 30 |
This highlights a reliance on trades, college programs, and hands-on work experience.
Employment
Labour force participation in Hare Bay is relatively low, with a participation rate of 40.1%. The employment rate is 25.3%, while the unemployment rate stands at 35.4%, well above the provincial average.
Employment by Sector (2021)
| Industry Sector | Workers |
|---|---|
| Construction | 50 |
| Retail trade | 45 |
| Health care & social assistance | 60 |
| Education services | 40 |
| Trades, transport, and equipment ops | 100 |
| Sales & service | 80 |
Traditional trades and service sectors form the backbone of employment, alongside public services like health and education.
Commuting & Transportation
Most employed residents in Hare Bay commute by car. Out of 180 employed people:
| Mode of Transport | Workers |
|---|---|
| Car, truck, van | 165 |
| Public transit | 0 |
| Walking/Biking | 0 |
| Other | 0 |
Commuting times are generally short, with 90 workers traveling less than 15 minutes to work.
Conclusion
Hare Bay’s population of 925 in 2021 reflects the challenges faced by many small towns in Newfoundland: declining population, aging demographics, and high unemployment. However, the community maintains strong cultural roots, with family households, trades, and local services shaping daily life.
The town’s most unique characteristic is its remarkably high senior population (30.3%), which has major implications for health services, housing, and long-term community planning.
FAQ
The population of Hare Bay in 2021 was 925.
Hare Bay’s population declined by 4.5% from 2016 to 2021.
The median age in Hare Bay is 53.6 years.
There were 387 occupied households in Hare Bay in 2021.
Construction, retail trade, health care, and trades are the leading industries.
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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