In 2021, the town of L’Anse au Loup, Newfoundland and Labrador recorded a population of 692 residents, a sharp increase of 24.0% compared to 558 residents in 2016. Covering a land area of 3.39 km², the community has a high population density of 203.9 people per km². This makes it one of the more densely populated small towns in the Labrador Straits region.
Population Growth Trends
Between 2016 and 2021, L’Anse au Loup added 134 residents, marking strong population growth after previous census years of stagnation. This growth is notable given broader rural Newfoundland and Labrador trends of decline.
Age Distribution
The median age in L’Anse au Loup is 54.4 years, significantly higher than the national average, reflecting an aging population. Nearly 29% of residents are 65 or older, while only 11.5% are under 15 years.
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 80 | 11.5% |
| 15–64 years | 415 | 59.7% |
| 65+ years | 200 | 28.8% |
Households & Dwellings
There are 322 private dwellings in L’Anse au Loup, of which 302 are occupied by usual residents. The majority (300) are single-detached homes. The average household size is 2.3 persons.
| Household Size | Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 55 |
| 2 persons | 155 |
| 3 persons | 55 |
| 4 persons | 30 |
| 5+ persons | 10 |
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
L’Anse au Loup is primarily non-visible minority, with 580 residents (95.9%) identifying as such. Only about 20 residents (3.3%) identify as part of a visible minority group, and 140 residents report Indigenous identity, largely Métis and Inuit.
| Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Visible minority | 20 | 3.3% |
| Not visible minority | 580 | 95.9% |
Immigration
Immigration levels are low, with only 25 immigrants (4.2%) living in L’Anse au Loup in 2021. Most arrived between 2011 and 2021.
| Immigrant Status | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Non-immigrants | 575 | 95.8% |
| Immigrants | 25 | 4.2% |
| Non-permanent residents | 0 | 0% |
| Admission Category (1980–2021) | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Economic immigrants | 20 | 80% |
| Family, Refugees, Other | 0 | 0% |
Income & Poverty
Households in L’Anse au Loup report relatively high median incomes for a rural community:
- Median household income (2020): $88,000
- Median after-tax income: $76,000
- Two-or-more-person households: $102,000 median income
- One-person households: $24,600 median income
Poverty remains a challenge, with 12.2% of residents living below the Low-Income Measure (after-tax). Seniors are most affected, with 35% of residents aged 65+ in low income.
Education
Educational attainment is modest. Out of the adult population:
| Education Level | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma/degree | 210 | 38.9% |
| High school diploma | 190 | 35.2% |
| Postsecondary certificate/diploma | 105 | 19.4% |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | 30 | 5.6% |
Employment
L’Anse au Loup faces labour market challenges.
- Labour force participation rate: 50.9%
- Employment rate: 28.7%
- Unemployment rate: 43.6%
Employment is concentrated in trades, transport, manufacturing, sales, and health care.
| Occupation Category | Workers |
|---|---|
| Trades, transport, equipment operators | 80 |
| Sales & service | 50 |
| Business, finance, administration | 40 |
| Manufacturing & utilities | 30 |
| Health | 15 |
Commuting & Transportation
Most employed residents commute locally:
| Mode of Transport | Workers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Car, truck, or van | 120 | 82.8% |
| Walk | 15 | 10.3% |
| Other method | 15 | 10.3% |
| Public transit | 0 | 0% |
Commutes are generally short, with 100 residents (69%) traveling less than 15 minutes to work.
Conclusion
The 2021 Census shows that L’Anse au Loup is growing, with a strong 24% population increase, bucking regional trends of decline. The town has an older median age of 54.4 years, modest levels of immigration, and relatively high household incomes compared to similar rural communities. A unique feature is the high rate of home ownership and stable housing, with no reported rental market presence.
FAQ
The population of L’Anse au Loup in 2021 was 692.
The population is growing, up 24% from 2016 to 2021.
The median age is 54.4 years, showing an older population.
There are 302 occupied private dwellings, with an average household size of 2.3.
Trades, transport, manufacturing, sales, and health care are leading employment sectors.
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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