In 2024, Ontario’s total population reached 16,124,116. Oshawa, a vibrant city within the Greater Toronto Area, recorded a population of 482,359, representing approximately 2.99% of the province’s residents. Known for its strong economic base, diverse communities, and family-friendly neighborhoods, Oshawa’s growth reflects ongoing suburban expansion and economic opportunity.
Total Population
482,359
Median Age
38.2 years
Land Area
903.25 km²
Oshawa Population by Age
Oshawa’s population distribution shows a balanced mix of working-age adults, children, and seniors.
| Age Group | Population | % of Total |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 14 years | 85,758 | 17.78% |
| 15 to 64 years | 322,507 | 66.86% |
| 65 years and older | 74,094 | 15.36% |
| Total | 482,359 | 100% |
| Median Age | 38.2 | — |
The city’s median age of 38.2 years indicates a relatively young and active population compared to many other Ontario municipalities.
Housing, Density, and Area Stats for Oshawa
The 2021 Census provides insight into Oshawa’s housing and land use patterns:
- Total private dwellings (2021): 153,565
- Private dwellings occupied by usual residents (2021): 149,047
- Land area: 903.25 km²
- Population density (2021): 459.8 people/km²
- National population rank: 15th largest in Canada (2021)
- Ontario population rank: 8th largest in the province (2021)
High population density and a large number of occupied dwellings reflect Oshawa’s role as a major urban hub in the Durham Region.
Demographics – Racial & Ethnic Composition of Oshawa
Oshawa is home to a diverse and multicultural community. In 2021, 115,220 residents identified as visible minorities, making up a significant portion of the population. The largest visible minority groups were South Asian, Black, and Filipino.
| Ethnic Group | Population | % of Total Population |
|---|---|---|
| South Asian | 37,570 | 7.79% |
| Chinese | 8,925 | 1.85% |
| Black | 33,080 | 6.86% |
| Filipino | 9,060 | 1.88% |
| Arab | 3,170 | 0.66% |
| Latin American | 4,675 | 0.97% |
| Southeast Asian | 1,810 | 0.38% |
| West Asian | 4,970 | 1.03% |
| Korean | 1,135 | 0.24% |
| Japanese | 635 | 0.13% |
| Visible minority, n.i.e. | 4,535 | 0.94% |
| Multiple visible minorities | 5,660 | 1.17% |
| Total visible minority population | 115,220 | 23.88% |
| Not a visible minority | 296,185 | 61.42% |
FAQ
In 2024, Oshawa’s population is estimated at 482,359 residents.
Oshawa accounts for approximately 2.99% of Ontario’s total population in 2024.
The median age in Oshawa is 38.2 years, reflecting a relatively young and active demographic.
South Asians form the largest visible minority group, with 37,570 residents (7.79% of the total population).
According to 2021 data, Oshawa’s population density was 459.8 people per square kilometre.
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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