According to the 2021 Census of Population, Port Saunders, Newfoundland and Labrador had a population of 678. This represents a slight increase of 0.6% (+4 people) compared to the 2016 Census, when the population was 674. The town covers a land area of 38.50 km², resulting in a population density of 17.6 people per km².
Population Growth Trends
While Port Saunders has maintained a relatively stable population over the past census periods, the 2021 results show a minor growth trend. This reflects the community’s resilience despite broader rural population challenges in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Age Distribution
The population of Port Saunders skews older, with a median age of 54.4 years and an average age of 49.7 years. Nearly 29% of residents are aged 65 and older, compared to just 13.3% under 15 years of age.
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 90 | 13.3% |
| 15–64 years | 395 | 58.5% |
| 65+ years | 195 | 28.9% |
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Port Saunders reported 319 private dwellings, of which 284 were occupied by usual residents. The average household size was 2.2 persons.
| Household Size | Number of Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 75 |
| 2 persons | 125 |
| 3 persons | 45 |
| 4 persons | 30 |
| 5+ persons | 10 |
The majority of housing stock consists of single-detached houses (270 dwellings).
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
The vast majority of Port Saunders residents identify as non-visible minority (100%). There are no significant populations of visible minority groups recorded in the 2021 Census.
| Visible Minority Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Visible minority | 0 | 0.0% |
| Not a visible minority | 795 | 100.0% |
Immigration
Port Saunders has an overwhelmingly Canadian-born population. In 2021, 100% of residents were non-immigrants, with no recorded immigrants or non-permanent residents.
| Immigration Status | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Non-immigrants | 790 | 100% |
| Immigrants | 0 | 0.0% |
| Non-permanent | 0 | 0.0% |
Income & Poverty
Income levels in Port Saunders reflect a mixed profile. In 2020, the median household income was $76,000, with after-tax income at $66,500.
| Household Type | Median Income (2020) |
|---|---|
| All households | $76,000 |
| One-person | $32,800 |
| Two+ persons | $89,000 |
The low-income rate (LIM-AT) stood at 10.8% overall, but was highest among seniors, with 24% of those aged 65+ living in low income.
Education
Educational attainment in Port Saunders is diverse, but many residents have completed trades or college programs.
| Highest Certificate/Diploma/Degree | Population (15+) |
|---|---|
| No certificate, diploma or degree | 220 |
| High school diploma | 160 |
| Postsecondary (college/trades) | 205 |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | 60 |
Employment
The labour force participation rate was 60.2%, with an employment rate of 46.1% and a relatively high unemployment rate of 23.4% in 2021.
| Employment Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| Participation rate | 60.2% |
| Employment rate | 46.1% |
| Unemployment rate | 23.4% |
Leading industries include:
- Fishing, forestry, and agriculture (80 workers)
- Health care and social assistance (80 workers)
- Retail trade (70 workers)
- Education services (25 workers)
Commuting & Transportation
Transportation in Port Saunders is dominated by private vehicles.
| Mode of Transportation | Workers |
|---|---|
| Car, truck or van | 240 |
| Walked | 25 |
| Public transit | 0 |
Commute times are short: 80% of workers commute under 15 minutes, highlighting the town’s compact nature and proximity to workplaces.
Conclusion
The 2021 Census confirms that Port Saunders is a small, stable town with 678 residents, a modest increase from 2016. The population is aging, with nearly one-third over age 65, and the community is primarily English-speaking and non-immigrant. Median household incomes are moderate, though unemployment remains a challenge. A defining feature of Port Saunders is its reliance on resource-based industries and health care, alongside a strong tradition of family households and community stability.
FAQ
The population of Port Saunders in 2021 was 678.
The population grew slightly by 0.6% from 2016 to 2021, adding 4 residents.
The median age is 54.4 years, reflecting an older population compared to the national average.
There were 284 occupied private dwellings in 2021, with an average household size of 2.2 people.
Fishing, forestry, health care, retail trade, and education services are leading employment sectors.
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
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