Ontario’s total population in 2024 is estimated at 16,124,116, making it the most populous province in Canada. Within this vibrant province, Peterborough stands out as a growing mid-sized community with a population of 148,027 in 2024. This means Peterborough accounts for approximately 0.92% of Ontario’s total population, reflecting its significance as a regional hub in the Kawarthas.
Total Population
148,027
Median Age
40.9 years
Land Area
1,508.44 km²
Peterborough Population by Age
Peterborough’s demographic structure shows a balance between working-age residents and an increasingly notable senior population. The city’s median age is 40.9, slightly above the provincial average, indicating a mature yet active community.
| Age Group | Population (2024) | Percentage of Total |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 14 years | 19,600 | 13.24% |
| 15 to 64 years | 94,145 | 63.56% |
| 65 years and older | 34,282 | 23.16% |
| All ages | 148,027 | 100% |
This breakdown highlights Peterborough’s role as a retirement-friendly city, with nearly one in four residents aged 65 or older, alongside a strong working-age population.
Housing, Density, and Area Stats for Peterborough
Peterborough’s urban and rural blend is reflected in its housing, land use, and population density.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Population (2021) | 128,624 |
| Total private dwellings (2021) | 57,761 |
| Private dwellings occupied by usual residents (2021) | 53,370 |
| Land area in square kilometres (2021) | 1,508.44 |
| Population density per square kilometre (2021) | 85.3 |
| National population rank (2021) | 32 |
| Ontario population rank (2021) | 14 |
With a land area of 1,508.44 km², Peterborough offers a low-to-moderate population density compared to larger Ontario cities, contributing to its appeal for those seeking space without sacrificing amenities.
Demographics – Racial & Ethnic Composition of Peterborough
Peterborough’s cultural diversity has been steadily increasing, with visible minorities making up 9,165 residents as of 2021 — approximately 7.13% of the total population at the time. The majority of residents (over 92%) identify as not being part of a visible minority, but the growing representation of multiple communities contributes to the city’s cultural vibrancy.
Visible Minority Breakdown (2021)
| Ethnic Group | Population | Percentage of Total Population |
|---|---|---|
| South Asian | 2,965 | 2.31% |
| Chinese | 1,040 | 0.81% |
| Black | 1,525 | 1.19% |
| Filipino | 640 | 0.50% |
| Arab | 505 | 0.39% |
| Latin American | 500 | 0.39% |
| Southeast Asian | 580 | 0.45% |
| West Asian | 305 | 0.24% |
| Korean | 355 | 0.28% |
| Japanese | 145 | 0.11% |
| Visible minority, n.i.e. | 280 | 0.22% |
| Multiple visible minorities | 325 | 0.25% |
| Total visible minority population | 9,165 | 7.13% |
| Not a visible minority | 116,825 | 90.90% |
This diversity is expected to continue growing as Peterborough attracts new residents from across Ontario, Canada, and abroad.
FAQ
Peterborough’s population in 2024 is 148,027, making up about 0.92% of Ontario’s total population.
Yes, with 23% of residents aged 65 and older, Peterborough offers excellent healthcare, recreation, and a slower pace of life that appeals to retirees.
The median age in Peterborough is 40.9 years in 2024, indicating a slightly older population compared to the provincial average.
Visible minorities make up about 7.13% of the population, with South Asian, Black, and Chinese communities being the largest groups.
As of 2021, Peterborough had 57,761 total private dwellings, with 53,370 occupied by usual residents.
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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