According to the 2021 Census of Population, the community of Samiajij Miawpukek, Newfoundland and Labrador, had a total population of 953. This represented a slight decrease of -0.3% from the 956 residents in 2016, a net loss of three people over five years.
The reserve covers a land area of 16.7 km², resulting in a population density of 57.1 persons per km². With an average household size of 2.7, Samiajij Miawpukek reflects a small but vibrant First Nation community with deep cultural roots.
Population Growth Trends
Between 2016 and 2021, the population of Samiajij Miawpukek remained relatively stable, with only a marginal decline. Unlike many rural and Indigenous communities that have experienced larger outmigration trends, this reserve shows stability in its demographic structure.
- 2016 Population: 956
- 2021 Population: 953
- Change: -3 people (-0.3%)
Age Distribution
The median age in Samiajij Miawpukek is 41.6 years, slightly higher than the Canadian average of 41.2. Children (0–14) make up nearly 18% of the population, while seniors (65+) account for just under 10%.
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 170 | 17.8% |
| 15–64 years | 695 | 72.8% |
| 65+ years | 90 | 9.4% |
This age structure indicates a community with a solid working-age population but a modest senior population compared to the provincial average.
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Samiajij Miawpukek had 358 total private dwellings, of which 353 were occupied. The vast majority are single-detached homes (335 units).
Household size is fairly typical, with two- and three-person households most common.
| Household Size | Number of Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 60 |
| 2 persons | 110 |
| 3 persons | 90 |
| 4 persons | 60 |
| 5+ persons | 30 |
- Average household size: 2.7
- Average family size: 2.9
Demographics (Indigenous Identity & Ethnicity)
Samiajij Miawpukek is overwhelmingly First Nations (Mi’kmaq) in identity and culture. In 2021:
- 810 residents (85%) identified as Indigenous
- 800 identified specifically as First Nations
- 785 residents had Registered or Treaty Indian status
Ethnic or cultural origins reported also reflect this heritage: 685 identified as Mi’kmaq. A smaller share reported English, Irish, and Scottish ancestry.
| Identity/Ethnicity | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| First Nations | 800 | 83.8% |
| Non-Indigenous | 145 | 15.2% |
| Mi’kmaq ancestry | 685 | 71.8% |
Income & Poverty
Household and individual income levels reflect both community strengths and challenges.
- Median household income (2020): $77,500
- Median after-tax household income: $75,500
- Median total income of individuals (15+): $34,800
Poverty levels were relatively low: 6.2% of residents were in low income (after-tax, LIM-AT).
| Household Income Group (2020) | % of Households |
|---|---|
| Under $40,000 | 10% |
| $40,000–$99,999 | 46% |
| $100,000+ | 44% |
Education
Educational attainment shows progress, though a significant proportion of adults still lack postsecondary credentials.
| Education Level (Age 15+) | Population |
|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma/degree | 215 |
| High school diploma | 185 |
| Postsecondary (any) | 380 |
| – Apprenticeship/Trades | 120 |
| – College/CEGEP | 190 |
| – University (Bachelor’s+) | 55 |
Employment
Labour force participation in Samiajij Miawpukek reflects both opportunities and barriers.
- Participation rate: 58.6%
- Employment rate: 40.8%
- Unemployment rate: 30.4% (much higher than national average)
Top occupations include:
- Public administration (100 workers)
- Health care & social assistance (85)
- Education services (60)
- Construction & trades (40)
- Retail trade (40)
| Employment by Industry | Workers |
|---|---|
| Public Administration | 100 |
| Health & Social Care | 85 |
| Education | 60 |
| Trades & Transport | 100 |
| Retail Trade | 40 |
Commuting & Transportation
Most employed residents commute locally within the reserve or surrounding division.
- Car, truck or van: 285 workers (93%)
- Walk: 10 workers
- Public transit: 0
Commute times are short: 74% travel under 15 minutes to work.
Conclusion
The population of Samiajij Miawpukek in 2021 was 953, reflecting remarkable demographic stability over five years. The community is strongly rooted in its Mi’kmaq identity, with nearly 85% identifying as Indigenous and over 70% reporting Mi’kmaq ancestry.
Despite challenges such as higher unemployment, the reserve shows above-average household income and low poverty rates compared to many rural areas. Its youthful working-age base, cultural strength, and focus on public administration and health services make Samiajij Miawpukek a distinctive and resilient First Nation community.
FAQ
The population was 953 in 2021, a slight decline of 0.3% from 2016.
The population has been stable, with only a small decline of three residents between 2016 and 2021.
The median age is 41.6 years, close to the Canadian median.
There were 353 occupied private dwellings in 2021, mostly single-detached homes.
The largest industries are public administration, health care, education, and trades/transportation.
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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