In 2024, the province of Ontario has a total population of 16,124,116. The city of North Bay is home to 84,076 residents, representing approximately 0.52% of Ontario’s total population. Known as the “Gateway to the North,” North Bay offers a balanced lifestyle with urban conveniences and access to Northern Ontario’s natural beauty, making its population trends an important metric for planners, investors, and residents.
Total Population
84,076
Median Age
40.9 years
Land Area
5,314.85 km²
North Bay Population by Age
North Bay’s population distribution reflects a mix of young families, working-age residents, and a significant senior population.
| Age Group | Population | % of Total Population |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 14 years | 10,582 | 12.6% |
| 15 to 64 years | 55,914 | 66.5% |
| 65 years and older | 17,580 | 20.9% |
| Median Age | 40.9 | — |
The median age of 40.9 years indicates a balanced demographic, slightly younger than some other Northern Ontario communities, suggesting steady workforce availability and opportunities for family-focused services.
Housing, Density, and Area Stats for North Bay
Based on the 2021 Census, North Bay offers diverse housing and a relatively low population density compared to Ontario’s urban centres.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Population (2021) | 71,736 |
| Total private dwellings (2021) | 34,049 |
| Private dwellings occupied (2021) | 31,182 |
| Land area (km²) | 5,314.85 |
| Population density (per km², 2021) | 13.5 |
| National population rank (2021) | 52 |
| Ontario population rank (2021) | 21 |
With a land area exceeding 5,300 km², North Bay’s low density offers a spacious living environment, making it attractive for those seeking less congested communities.
Demographics – Racial & Ethnic Composition of North Bay
North Bay’s cultural diversity continues to grow, with a total visible minority population of 2,590 (2021), accounting for around 3.6% of the total population. The largest visible minority groups are South Asian, Black, and Chinese communities.
| Ethnic Group | Population | % of Total Population |
|---|---|---|
| South Asian | 745 | 1.05% |
| Chinese | 335 | 0.47% |
| Black | 650 | 0.92% |
| Filipino | 150 | 0.21% |
| Arab | 65 | 0.09% |
| Latin American | 185 | 0.26% |
| Southeast Asian | 140 | 0.20% |
| West Asian | 75 | 0.11% |
| Korean | 35 | 0.05% |
| Japanese | 55 | 0.08% |
| Visible minority, n.i.e. | 65 | 0.09% |
| Multiple visible minorities | 80 | 0.11% |
| Not a visible minority | 67,585 | 96.4% |
The city’s diversity contributes to a broad range of cultural festivals, restaurants, and community initiatives.
FAQ
The 2024 population of North Bay is 84,076, representing about 0.52% of Ontario’s total population.
North Bay’s median age is 40.9 years, indicating a balanced mix of youth, working-age adults, and seniors.
In 2024, 17,580 residents (about 20.9% of the population) are aged 65 or older.
Based on the 2021 Census, North Bay has a population density of 13.5 people per km², reflecting its spacious layout and large land area.
The largest visible minority groups are South Asian, Black, and Chinese, with visible minorities making up 3.6% of the total population.
Source:
- Statistics Canada. Table 17-10-0148-01 Population estimates, July 1, by census metropolitan area and census agglomeration, 2021 boundaries
- Statistics Canada. Table 98-10-0005-01 Population and dwelling counts: Canada, provinces and territories, census metropolitan areas and census agglomerations
- Statistics Canada. Table 98-10-0351-01 Visible minority by gender and age: Canada, provinces and territories

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