Robert’s Arm, a small town in Newfoundland and Labrador, recorded a population of 722 in 2021, according to Statistics Canada. This marks a decline of 10.3% from the 805 residents counted in 2016, a drop of 83 people. With a land area of 36.09 km², the town has a population density of 20.0 people per square kilometre, reflecting its rural, low-density character.
Population Growth Trends
Between 2016 and 2021, Robert’s Arm saw a noticeable decline in its population, contrasting with moderate growth in many other Canadian communities. The loss of 83 residents highlights challenges related to rural depopulation, such as youth outmigration and an aging population base.
Age Distribution
The town has a median age of 54.4 years, which is significantly higher than the national average, underscoring an older demographic profile. Almost one-third of residents are seniors aged 65 and over.
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 70 | 9.7% |
| 15–64 years | 425 | 59.0% |
| 65+ years | 230 | 31.9% |
Households & Dwellings
Robert’s Arm had 385 private dwellings in 2021, of which 351 were occupied by usual residents. Most homes are single-detached houses. The average household size was 2.1 persons.
| Household Size | Number of Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 105 |
| 2 persons | 160 |
| 3 persons | 50 |
| 4 persons | 30 |
| 5+ persons | 5 |
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
Robert’s Arm is a predominantly non-visible minority community, with the 2021 Census showing no recorded visible minority groups. The population primarily identifies with European origins such as English, Irish, and Scottish, with a small Indigenous population (25 residents reporting First Nations identity).
| Visible Minority Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Total visible minority | 0 | 0.0% |
| Not a visible minority | 720 | 100% |
Immigration
Robert’s Arm has virtually no immigrant population. In 2021, all but five residents were non-immigrants (Canadian-born), and there were no recent immigrants or non-permanent residents. This highlights the town’s limited role in Canada’s immigration settlement patterns.
| Immigrant Status | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Non-immigrants | 715 | 99.3% |
| Immigrants | 0 | 0.0% |
| Non-permanent | 0 | 0.0% |
Income & Poverty
In 2020, the median total income for individuals aged 15+ was $27,600, with a median after-tax income of $25,800. Households reported a median total income of $56,800, with two-person households earning significantly more ($71,500 median).
Poverty remains a concern: 21.6% of residents lived in low-income households based on the Low-Income Measure (LIM-AT), with seniors (65+) most affected at a 35.5% rate.
Education
Education levels are modest. Among residents aged 15 and over:
| Education Level | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| No certificate, diploma, or degree | 200 | 30.1% |
| High school diploma or equivalent | 210 | 31.6% |
| Postsecondary certificate or diploma | 190 | 28.6% |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | 65 | 9.8% |
Employment
Labour force participation is low. Of 665 residents aged 15+, only 270 were in the labour force, yielding a participation rate of 40.6%. The unemployment rate stood at 24.1%, significantly above the national average.
Employment Rate: 30.8%
Unemployment Rate: 24.1%
Leading industries include:
- Mining, quarrying, and oil & gas extraction (45 workers)
- Trades, transport, and equipment operators (60 workers)
- Education services (30 workers)
- Health care and social assistance (40 workers)
Commuting & Transportation
Robert’s Arm residents overwhelmingly rely on private vehicles for commuting.
| Mode of Transport | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Car, truck, or van | 175 | 87.5% |
| Public transit | 0 | 0.0% |
| Walked | 0 | 0.0% |
| Other methods | 20 | 10.0% |
Commute times are relatively short: nearly 70% travel under 30 minutes to work.
Conclusion
Robert’s Arm in 2021 was a small, aging community experiencing population decline. With a high median age (54.4 years), low immigration, and elevated poverty rates, the town faces challenges in sustaining growth. However, its close-knit households, reliance on resource industries, and affordable housing make it characteristic of many rural Newfoundland communities.
FAQ
Robert’s Arm had a population of 722 in 2021.
The town’s population declined by 10.3% between 2016 and 2021.
The median age is 54.4 years, well above the national median.
There were 351 occupied private dwellings in 2021.
Mining, trades, education, and health care are leading industries for local employment.
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
Recent Comments