According to the 2021 Census of Population, the town of Humber Arm South, Newfoundland and Labrador, recorded a total population of 1,537 residents. This represents a decline of 3.9% compared to 2016, when the population stood at 1,599.
The town covers a land area of 65.14 km², resulting in a population density of 23.6 persons per square kilometre. Humber Arm South is primarily a residential and coastal community, with a strong sense of local identity.
Population Growth Trends
Humber Arm South experienced a population decline of 62 people between 2016 and 2021, equal to a 3.9% decrease. This decline reflects the broader demographic challenges faced by many small towns in rural Newfoundland and Labrador, where outmigration and aging populations are significant factors.
Age Distribution
The town has an older population, with a median age of 51.2 years and an average age of 47.1 years. Seniors (65+) make up nearly one-quarter of residents, while children represent just over 10%.
Age Distribution Table
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 165 | 10.7% |
| 15–64 years | 995 | 64.8% |
| 65+ years | 375 | 24.4% |
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, there were 748 total private dwellings in Humber Arm South, of which 688 were occupied by usual residents. The town consists predominantly of single-detached homes (660 units).
- Average household size: 2.2 persons
- One-person households: 180
- Largest household group: 2-person households (295)
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity & Indigenous Identity)
Humber Arm South is overwhelmingly English-speaking and non-immigrant. According to the Census, 930 residents identified as Indigenous, primarily First Nations and Mi’kmaq, while 610 identified as non-Indigenous. No visible minority populations were recorded.
Indigenous Identity (2021)
| Group | Population |
|---|---|
| Indigenous Identity | 930 |
| – First Nations | 780 |
| – Métis | 35 |
| – Other Indigenous | 115 |
| Non-Indigenous Identity | 610 |
Income & Poverty
Income levels in Humber Arm South highlight modest earnings compared to national averages:
- Median total individual income (2020): $37,200
- Median household income (2020): $70,500
- Median family income (2020): $85,000
However, poverty is a notable issue:
- 17.2% of residents lived in low income (LIM-AT)
- Seniors (65+) were disproportionately affected, with 34% living in low income.
Education
Educational attainment reflects a mix of secondary and postsecondary training:
Highest Certificate, Diploma or Degree (Population 15+)
| Education Level | Population |
|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma | 390 |
| High school diploma | 380 |
| Postsecondary | 580 |
| – Trades/college | 455 |
| – Bachelor’s or higher | 125 |
Employment
The labour force participation rate in Humber Arm South was 56.7%, with an employment rate of 46.7%. The unemployment rate stood at 18.3%, significantly higher than the national average.
Employment by Industry (2021)
| Industry Sector | Workers |
|---|---|
| Health care & social assistance | 180 |
| Manufacturing | 145 |
| Trades, transport, equipment | 165 |
| Education | 50 |
| Public administration | 50 |
| Agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting | 95 |
This distribution reflects a labour market rooted in health services, trades, and traditional resource industries.
Commuting & Transportation
Most employed residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting.
Commuting Patterns (2021)
- Car, truck, or van: 535 commuters (94%)
- Walking: 20 commuters (3.5%)
- Other methods: 20 commuters (3.5%)
- Public transit: 0 (no local service)
Average commuting times are relatively short:
- <15 minutes: 190 workers
- 15–29 minutes: 215 workers
Conclusion
Humber Arm South in 2021 was a small but resilient community of 1,537 people. While facing challenges such as population decline, an aging demographic, and high unemployment, the town remains anchored by strong Indigenous heritage, affordable housing, and community-driven industries.
Its median age of 51.2 underscores its older population profile, and with over 930 Indigenous residents, Humber Arm South has one of the highest proportions of Indigenous populations in the region.
FAQ
The population was 1,537 according to the 2021 Census.
The town’s population declined by 3.9% between 2016 and 2021.
The median age is 51.2 years, higher than the national median.
There were 688 occupied private dwellings in 2021.
Key industries include health care, manufacturing, fishing, and trades.
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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