Owen Sound, Ontario, a scenic port city on Georgian Bay known for its waterfalls, cultural events, and natural beauty, has an estimated 2024 population of 35,016. With Ontario’s total population reaching 16,124,116, Owen Sound accounts for approximately 0.22% of the province’s population. The city offers a mix of small-town charm, outdoor recreation, and strong community life, attracting both retirees and families.
Total Population
35,016
Median Age
47.6 years
Land Area
624.18 km²
Owen Sound Population by Age
Owen Sound’s age distribution reveals a mature population, with over a quarter of residents aged 65 and older.
| Age Group | Population | Percentage of Total |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 14 years | 4,828 | 13.8% |
| 15 to 64 years | 20,507 | 58.6% |
| 65 years and older | 9,681 | 27.6% |
| Median Age | 47.6 | — |
With a median age of 47.6, Owen Sound is older than the provincial average, reflecting its popularity as a retirement-friendly community.
Housing, Density, and Area Stats for Owen Sound
Owen Sound’s housing and population density show it to be a moderately populated city spread over a large area.
- Population (2021 Census): 32,712
- Total Private Dwellings (2021): 15,675
- Occupied Private Dwellings (2021): 14,390
- Land Area: 624.18 km²
- Population Density (2021): 52.4 people/km²
- National Population Rank (2021): 81st
- Ontario Population Rank (2021): 28th
The city has seen steady growth between 2021 and 2024, supported by migration from urban centres and residential development.
Demographics – Racial & Ethnic Composition of Owen Sound
In 2021, 1,495 residents identified as part of a visible minority group, making up 4.9% of Owen Sound’s total population. The largest groups were South Asian (390), Black (325), and Arab (200) communities.
Racial Composition of Owen Sound (2021)
| Ethnicity / Group | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| South Asian | 390 | 1.2% |
| Chinese | 165 | 0.5% |
| Black | 325 | 1.0% |
| Filipino | 75 | 0.2% |
| Arab | 200 | 0.6% |
| Latin American | 65 | 0.2% |
| Southeast Asian | 30 | 0.1% |
| West Asian | 10 | 0.03% |
| Korean | 60 | 0.2% |
| Japanese | 60 | 0.2% |
| Visible minority, n.i.e. | 70 | 0.2% |
| Multiple visible minorities | 55 | 0.2% |
| Total Visible Minorities | 1,495 | 4.9% |
| Not a visible minority | 30,380 | 95.1% |
While the visible minority population is small, it is growing slowly, contributing to the city’s cultural diversity.
FAQ
The population is estimated at 35,016, which is about 0.22% of Ontario’s total.
Yes. With nearly 28% of residents aged 65 and older, Owen Sound offers a quiet lifestyle, scenic surroundings, and healthcare services attractive to retirees.
Yes. The city’s population grew from 32,712 in 2021 to 35,016 in 2024, supported by new housing and migration from other regions.
Visible minorities make up 4.9% of the population, with South Asian, Black, and Arab communities being the largest groups.
Owen Sound is known for its harbor on Georgian Bay, nearby waterfalls, outdoor recreation, and cultural events like the Summerfolk Music & Crafts Festival.
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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