As of 2024, Shawinigan has a total population of 51,780, representing about 0.57% of Quebec’s total population of 9,056,044. Located in the Mauricie region, Shawinigan is known for its natural beauty, strong community ties, and growing senior population. This report examines the city’s age distribution, housing data, and demographic composition.
Total Population
51,780
Median Age
51.9 years
Land Area
729.98 km²
Shawinigan Population by Age
The city’s population shows a significant proportion of residents in the senior age bracket, with more than 31% aged 65 years or older.
| Age Group | Population | Percentage of Total |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 14 years | 6,742 | 13.0% |
| 15 to 64 years | 28,647 | 55.3% |
| 65 years and older | 16,391 | 31.7% |
| Median Age | 51.9 | — |
The high median age highlights Shawinigan’s status as a community with a substantial retirement-aged population.
Housing, Density, and Area Stats for Shawinigan
According to the 2021 Census:
- Population: 49,620 (2021)
- Total private dwellings: 27,444
- Occupied dwellings: 25,060
- Land area: 729.98 km²
- Population density: 68 people/km²
- National population rank: 63rd in Canada
- Provincial rank: 13th in Quebec
The low population density reflects Shawinigan’s balance between urban amenities and spacious living, offering residents room to grow while maintaining access to essential services.
Demographics – Racial & Ethnic Composition of Shawinigan
Shawinigan’s population is predominantly not part of a visible minority group, though there is a presence of diverse communities. The largest visible minority groups are Black, Latin American, and Chinese populations.
| Ethnic Group | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| South Asian | 40 | 0.08% |
| Chinese | 55 | 0.11% |
| Black | 390 | 0.75% |
| Filipino | 0 | 0.00% |
| Arab | 130 | 0.25% |
| Latin American | 255 | 0.49% |
| Southeast Asian | 60 | 0.12% |
| West Asian | 20 | 0.04% |
| Korean | 0 | 0.00% |
| Japanese | 10 | 0.02% |
| Visible minority, n.i.e. | 55 | 0.11% |
| Multiple visible minorities | 25 | 0.05% |
| Not a visible minority | 46,595 | 90.0 |
FAQ
The population is 51,780 as of 2024.
The median age is 51.9 years, higher than the provincial average, reflecting a significant senior population.
The Black community is the largest visible minority group, followed by Latin American and Chinese residents.
There are 16,391 residents aged 65 years and older, representing 31.7% of the population.
The density is 68 people per square kilometre, making it a relatively spacious city compared to other urban centres in Quebec.
Source:
- Statistics Canada. Table 17-10-0148-01 Population estimates, July 1, by census metropolitan area and census agglomeration, 2021 boundaries
- Statistics Canada. Table 98-10-0005-01 Population and dwelling counts: Canada, provinces and territories, census metropolitan areas and census agglomerations
- Statistics Canada. Table 98-10-0351-01 Visible minority by gender and age: Canada, provinces and territories
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