According to the 2021 Census of Population, Roddickton-Bide Arm, a town in Newfoundland and Labrador, recorded 928 residents. This represents a 7.1% decline compared with the 999 residents in 2016—a net loss of 71 people.
The town covers a land area of 45.14 square kilometres, resulting in a population density of 20.6 persons per square kilometre. Despite the population decline, Roddickton-Bide Arm maintains a strong community identity rooted in its fishing and forestry history.
Population Growth Trends
Between 2016 and 2021, Roddickton-Bide Arm experienced a population decrease of 7.1%, reflecting outmigration and an aging population. This trend is consistent with many rural Newfoundland communities where younger residents often relocate for employment or education opportunities.
Age Distribution
The median age in Roddickton-Bide Arm is 53.2 years, notably higher than the provincial and national averages. Nearly one-third of the population (30.6%) is 65 years or older, while children (0–14 years) make up only 14% of residents.
Age Breakdown (2021):
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 130 | 14.0% |
| 15–64 years | 520 | 55.9% |
| 65+ years | 285 | 30.6% |
The aging demographic indicates potential challenges for workforce availability and service delivery in coming years.
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Roddickton-Bide Arm had 422 total private dwellings, of which 377 were occupied by usual residents. Most dwellings are single-detached homes. The average household size was 2.4 persons.
Household Size (2021):
| Household Size | Number of Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 70 |
| 2 persons | 185 |
| 3 persons | 65 |
| 4 persons | 30 |
| 5+ persons | 35 |
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
The town is overwhelmingly English-speaking and non-immigrant. In 2021, 90 residents identified as Indigenous, with the majority being Inuit (40) and First Nations (35). There were no visible minorities recorded.
Indigenous Identity (2021):
| Group | Population |
|---|---|
| First Nations | 35 |
| Métis | 10 |
| Inuit | 40 |
| Total | 90 |
This Indigenous presence remains an important cultural influence in the region.
Income & Poverty
In 2020, the median household income in Roddickton-Bide Arm was $62,800, while the median after-tax household income was $57,600. For two-or-more-person households, the median income was significantly higher at $74,000.
However, poverty remains a concern: 22.8% of the population lived in low income based on the Low-Income Measure, after tax (LIM-AT). Seniors (65+) had the highest poverty rate at 42%.
Household Income Distribution (2020):
| Income Range | Households |
|---|---|
| Under $30,000 | 45 |
| $30,000–$59,999 | 120 |
| $60,000–$99,999 | 105 |
| $100,000+ | 90 |
Education
Educational attainment levels are modest. Among residents aged 15 and over, 295 had no certificate, diploma, or degree, while 250 completed postsecondary education. Only 70 residents held a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Highest Education Level (2021):
| Education Level | Population |
|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma | 295 |
| High school diploma | 230 |
| Postsecondary certificate | 180 |
| Bachelor’s degree+ | 70 |
Employment
In 2021, the labour force participation rate was 53.2%, with an employment rate of 37.2% and an unemployment rate of 30.1%, significantly above provincial and national averages.
The largest occupational groups were in:
- Trades, transport, and equipment operators (125 people)
- Sales and service (90 people)
- Education, law, and social/community services (80 people)
By industry, the leading sectors were:
- Health care and social assistance (65 workers)
- Construction (50 workers)
- Retail trade (50 workers)
- Forestry, fishing, and hunting (35 workers)
Commuting & Transportation
Nearly all commuters rely on private vehicles. In 2021:
- 280 residents commuted by car, truck, or van (245 as drivers, 35 as passengers).
- No residents reported using public transit, walking, or cycling as their main mode of commuting.
- Commute times were generally short, with 165 residents traveling less than 15 minutes to work.
Conclusion
Roddickton-Bide Arm’s population of 928 in 2021 reflects a decline compared with 2016. The town faces challenges of population aging, outmigration, and high unemployment, but it maintains strong community roots, a modest income base, and a notable Indigenous presence. Its reliance on natural resources and health services underscores its economic identity, while its remote location shapes commuting and demographic patterns.
FAQ
The population of Roddickton-Bide Arm was 928 in 2021.
The population is shrinking, down 7.1% from 2016.
The median age is 53.2 years, reflecting an aging community.
There were 377 occupied private households in 2021.
Key industries include health care, retail trade, construction, and resource-based sectors such as fishing and forestry.
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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