Norris Arm, Newfoundland and Labrador Population

---

---

---

The population of Norris Arm, Newfoundland and Labrador was 708 in 2021, according to Statistics Canada. This represents a decline of 29 people (-3.9%) compared to 2016, when the population stood at 737. With a land area of 41.35 km², the town had a population density of 17.1 people per km² in 2021.

---

Population Growth Trends

Between 2016 and 2021, Norris Arm experienced modest population decline, reflecting demographic trends seen in many smaller towns across Newfoundland and Labrador. Outmigration and an aging population remain key factors influencing this change.

---

Age Distribution

The town has a relatively older population, with a median age of 56.8 years and an average age of 50.5 years. Over 31% of residents are seniors aged 65 and older.

Age Distribution in Norris Arm (2021):

Age Group	Population	Percent
0–14 years	75	10.6%
15–64 years	415	58.9%
65+ years	220	31.2%

---

Households & Dwellings

In 2021, Norris Arm had 435 private dwellings, of which 334 were occupied by usual residents. The average household size was 2.1 persons per household. Housing stock is dominated by single-detached homes.

---

Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)

Norris Arm’s population is overwhelmingly non-visible minority and predominantly of European ancestry. The community identifies strongly with English, Irish, and Canadian heritage, along with a notable share identifying as Newfoundlander.

Visible Minority Status (2021):

Group	Population	Percent
Visible minority	0	0%
Not a minority	710	100%

---

Immigration

Norris Arm is a community with very few immigrants. The 2021 Census reported that 705 residents (99%) were non-immigrants, and there were no recent immigrants (2011–2021).

Immigration Status (2021):

Category	Population	Percent
Non-immigrants	705	99%
Immigrants	0	0%
Non-permanent	0	0%

---

Income & Poverty

The median household income in Norris Arm in 2020 was $53,200 before tax, with after-tax median at $47,600.

• One-person households reported lower incomes ($25,400) compared to two-or-more person households ($64,500).
• About 24.8% of residents lived in low income (after tax, LIM-AT).

---

Education

Educational attainment shows that many residents have college or trades qualifications, while university-level education remains limited.

Highest Certificate or Degree (Population 15+):

Level	Population
No certificate, diploma or degree	225
High school diploma/equivalency	190
Postsecondary (college/trades/other)	220
Bachelor’s degree or higher	20

---

Employment

Norris Arm had a participation rate of 37.0% in 2021, with an employment rate of 25.2%. The unemployment rate was notably high at 31.9%, reflecting limited local job opportunities.

Employment by Industry (2021):

Industry Sector	Workers
Construction	35
Retail trade	35
Health care & social assistance	55
Public administration	40
Other industries combined	55

---

Commuting & Transportation

Most employed residents in Norris Arm commute by car. In 2021:

• 135 people (90%) used a car, truck, or van.
• 10 people (6%) walked to work.
• Public transit use was negligible.

Commute times were generally short, with 75 commuters traveling 15–29 minutes to work, reflecting regional employment hubs within central Newfoundland.

---

Conclusion

The 2021 Census highlights Norris Arm as a small, aging town experiencing modest population decline. With a median age of 56.8 years and more than 31% of residents aged 65+, demographic shifts continue to shape community life. While income levels for families remain steady, high unemployment and limited immigration underline ongoing challenges. A defining characteristic of Norris Arm is its strong cultural roots, with nearly all residents identifying as Canadian, English, Irish, or Newfoundlander.

FAQ

---

---

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

---

---