Rocky Harbour, a small town in Newfoundland and Labrador, recorded a population of 937 in the 2021 Census. This marked a slight decline of 1.1% compared to 2016, when the population stood at 947. Spread across a land area of 12.08 km², the town has a population density of 77.6 people per km², reflecting its rural character.
Population Growth Trends
Rocky Harbour’s population has remained relatively stable over the past decade, though the 2016–2021 period showed a modest decrease. This small decline aligns with patterns seen in many rural Newfoundland communities, where aging populations and out-migration affect growth.
Age Distribution
Rocky Harbour is an older community, with a median age of 56.0 years and an average age of 50.8 years. Nearly 30% of the population is aged 65 or over, while only 9.1% are children under 15.
Age Breakdown (2021):
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 85 | 9.1% |
| 15–64 years | 570 | 61.0% |
| 65+ years | 280 | 29.9% |
This age structure highlights the town’s strong senior presence, which influences local services, housing, and healthcare needs.
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Rocky Harbour had 556 private dwellings, of which 436 were occupied by usual residents. The average household size was 2.1 people.
Most homes were single-detached houses (415 units), with a small number of row houses (15) and low-rise apartments (5).
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity & Language)
Rocky Harbour is overwhelmingly English-speaking, with 935 residents reporting English as their mother tongue. Only a handful of residents reported speaking another language at home, including Spanish.
In terms of Indigenous identity, about 125 residents (13%) identified as Indigenous, primarily Mi’kmaq and First Nations. Visible minority populations were not reported in the 2021 Census.
Ethnic & Cultural Origins (selected):
| Origin | Population |
|---|---|
| English | 445 |
| Irish | 115 |
| Scottish | 90 |
| French (n.o.s.) | 95 |
| Mi’kmaq (n.o.s.) | 150 |
| Newfoundlander | 70 |
Income & Poverty
The median household income in 2020 was $69,000, with an after-tax median of $60,400. Income levels were higher for two-person households ($82,000) compared to one-person households ($27,800).
Poverty Rates (LIM-AT, 2020):
- Overall: 15.0% of residents lived in low income.
- Seniors (65+): 31.2% in low income.
- Children (0–17): 12.0% in low income.
These figures show that while many households have stable incomes, seniors are more vulnerable to economic hardship.
Education
Educational attainment in Rocky Harbour shows a mix of secondary and post-secondary credentials:
| Education Level | Population (15+) |
|---|---|
| No certificate, diploma or degree | 230 |
| High school diploma or equivalent | 170 |
| Postsecondary certificate/diploma/degree | 440 |
| – Apprenticeship/trades certificate | 95 |
| – College diploma | 165 |
| – Bachelor’s degree or higher | 170 |
Postsecondary education is fairly common, with trades, health, and business being leading fields of study.
Employment
The 2021 labour force data paints a mixed picture:
- Participation rate: 49.1%
- Employment rate: 34.3%
- Unemployment rate: 30.1%
Occupations are concentrated in trades, transport, and equipment operation (110 people), sales and service (85), and health (40). Key industries include:
| Industry | Workers |
|---|---|
| Construction | 50 |
| Health care & social assistance | 60 |
| Accommodation & food services | 45 |
| Retail trade | 30 |
| Public administration | 35 |
Tourism, health care, and construction are central to the town’s economy.
Commuting & Transportation
Among the employed, commuting patterns reflect Rocky Harbour’s small-town setting:
- Car, truck, or van: 200 workers
- Walked: 20 workers
- Other methods: 15 workers
- Public transit: 0 workers
Most residents have very short commutes, with 76% traveling less than 15 minutes to work. About 50 residents reported working from home in 2021.
Conclusion
Rocky Harbour in 2021 was home to 937 people, showing a small population decline compared to 2016. With a median age of 56, the community is older than the national average, and nearly one-third of residents are seniors. Income levels are moderate, though poverty among older adults remains a challenge. The economy is supported by construction, health care, public services, and seasonal industries linked to Gros Morne National Park.
A unique characteristic of Rocky Harbour is its deep Mi’kmaq heritage and cultural identity, which continues to shape the community’s traditions and demographics.
FAQ
The population of Rocky Harbour in 2021 was 937.
The population declined slightly by 1.1% between 2016 and 2021.
The median age is 56.0 years, reflecting an older demographic profile.
There were 436 occupied private households in 2021, with an average size of 2.1 people.
Health care, construction, tourism, accommodation, and public administration are leading industries.
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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