According to the 2021 Census of Population, Mount Moriah, Newfoundland and Labrador, had a population of 700 residents. This represents a 6.2% decline from its 2016 population of 746, a loss of 46 residents over five years.
The town covers a land area of 15.71 km², resulting in a population density of 44.6 people per square kilometre. With a median age of 48.4 years, Mount Moriah has an older demographic compared to the national average.
Population Growth Trends
Mount Moriah’s population decreased between 2016 and 2021, bucking the growth seen in many Canadian communities.
- 2016 Population: 746
- 2021 Population: 700
- Change: -46 residents (-6.2%)
This decline reflects broader trends of population shifts in some rural Newfoundland towns.
Age Distribution
The population skews older, with 22.1% aged 65 and over, compared to just 11.4% under 15 years. The median age is 48.4 years.
Age Distribution (2021)
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 80 | 11.4% |
| 15–64 years | 465 | 66.4% |
| 65+ years | 155 | 22.1% |
Households & Dwellings
Mount Moriah had 309 total private dwellings, of which 285 were occupied in 2021. The average household size was 2.5 persons.
Most homes are single-detached houses (265 units), reflecting the town’s suburban character.
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
Mount Moriah is predominantly non-visible minority, with 98% of the population identifying as not a visible minority. Only 15 individuals identified as part of a visible minority group.
Visible Minority Population (2021)
| Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Visible minority (total) | 15 | 2.1% |
| Not a visible minority | 690 | 98.6% |
Immigration
Mount Moriah has a small immigrant population. In 2021, 10 residents were immigrants, all originating from the United States. No recent immigrants (2016–2021 arrivals) were reported.
Immigration Status (2021)
| Category | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Non-immigrants | 690 | 98.6% |
| Immigrants | 10 | 1.4% |
| Non-permanent residents | 0 | 0% |
Admission Category (Immigrants 1980–2021)
| Category | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Economic immigrants | 0 | 0% |
| Family-sponsored | 0 | 0% |
| Refugees | 0 | 0% |
| Other immigrants | 0 | 0% |
Income & Poverty
The median household income in 2020 was $79,000, with two-or-more person households reporting higher median incomes of $90,000.
However, 12.8% of residents lived in low income (after tax, LIM-AT), with the rate higher among seniors (27%).
Education
Educational attainment in Mount Moriah highlights a balance between high school and postsecondary qualifications:
Highest Education (Population 15+, 2021)
| Level | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| No certificate, diploma, or degree | 145 | 22.5% |
| High school diploma | 220 | 34.1% |
| Postsecondary certificate, diploma, or degree | 280 | 43.4% |
Among postsecondary graduates, college diplomas and trades programs dominate, with smaller numbers holding bachelor’s degrees.
Employment
The town had an employment rate of 45.7% and a high unemployment rate of 18.1% in 2021.
Employment by Industry (2021)
| Industry | Workers |
|---|---|
| Construction | 55 |
| Retail trade | 60 |
| Health care & social assistance | 65 |
| Public administration | 30 |
| Accommodation & food services | 35 |
| Trades, transport & equipment | 100 |
| Other industries | 15–20 each |
Commuting & Transportation
Mount Moriah is a car-dependent community:
- 91% commute by car, truck, or van (mostly as drivers)
- 7% walk to work
- 0% reported using public transit
Most residents have short commutes, with 90% traveling less than 30 minutes to work.
Conclusion
Mount Moriah’s population of 700 in 2021 reflects a modest decline over the past five years. With a median age of 48.4 years and more than one in five residents aged 65 and over, the town has an aging demographic.
Despite relatively high household incomes, challenges include higher unemployment and elevated poverty rates among seniors. Mount Moriah remains a predominantly English-speaking, Canadian-born community with deep local roots.
FAQ
The population of Mount Moriah was 700 in 2021.
The population declined by 6.2% from 2016 to 2021.
The median age was 48.4 years in 2021.
There were 285 occupied private dwellings in Mount Moriah in 2021.
Key industries include construction, retail, health care, trades, and public administration.
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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