In 2021, the population of Sheshatshiu 3, Newfoundland and Labrador was 1,225, according to Statistics Canada. This marks a decline of 18.3% compared to 2016, when the population stood at 1,500. The community spans a land area of 8.48 km², resulting in a population density of 144.5 people per square kilometre.
Population Growth Trends
Between 2016 and 2021, Sheshatshiu 3 saw a notable population decline, losing 275 residents. This contrasts with many other Indigenous reserves in Canada that have experienced population growth. The decline may reflect migration, demographic shifts, or other socio-economic factors.
Age Distribution
The population of Sheshatshiu 3 is relatively young, with a median age of 27.0 years and an average age of 29.6. Nearly one-third of residents are under 15 years old.
Age Breakdown:
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 370 | 30.3% |
| 15–64 years | 780 | 63.9% |
| 65+ years | 75 | 6.1% |
This youthful profile reflects higher birth rates and larger families compared to provincial and national averages.
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Sheshatshiu 3 contained 373 private dwellings, of which 340 were occupied.
- Average household size: 3.6 people
- Most common dwelling type: Single-detached homes (325 of 340)
- Household size distribution:
| Household Size | Number of Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 25 |
| 2 persons | 60 |
| 3 persons | 95 |
| 4 persons | 70 |
| 5 or more persons | 90 |
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
Sheshatshiu 3 is predominantly Indigenous, with 1,150 people identifying as Indigenous out of 1,210 residents (95%). The majority identify as First Nations (915 people), along with 120 Inuit and 40 Métis.
Visible minority groups are very small, with about 10 residents identifying as Arab and the rest of the population reporting Indigenous or non-visible minority identities.
Population by Identity (2021):
| Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Indigenous | 1,150 | 95.0% |
| Non-Indigenous | 65 | 5.0% |
| Visible Minority | 10 | 0.8% |
Income & Poverty
Income levels in Sheshatshiu 3 are below the Canadian average but show improvement from 2019 to 2020.
- Median individual income (2020): $40,000
- Median employment income (2020): $32,800
- Median household income (2020): $88,000
- Median family income (2020): $92,000
- Low-income prevalence (LIM-AT): 19.8% (higher among children at 27.6%)
Education
Educational attainment shows that many residents do not hold postsecondary qualifications:
| Highest Level | Population (15+) | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| No certificate, diploma or degree | 375 | 44.4% |
| High school diploma or equivalent | 205 | 24.3% |
| Postsecondary certificate/diploma/degree | 260 | 30.8% |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | 50 | 5.9% |
Employment
Labour force participation is relatively low, and unemployment remains high compared to provincial averages.
- Participation rate: 57.4%
- Employment rate: 42.0%
- Unemployment rate: 25.8%
Top occupations:
- Education, law, social and community services (140 workers)
- Health care and social assistance (130 workers)
- Public administration (95 workers)
- Trades, transport and equipment operation (85 workers)
Commuting & Transportation
Employment in Sheshatshiu 3 is largely local, with many residents working within the community or nearby.
- Main mode of commuting: Car, truck or van (275 workers, 87%)
- Walking to work: 25 workers (8%)
- Commute times: 235 workers (75%) travel less than 15 minutes
Conclusion
The 2021 Census shows that Sheshatshiu 3 is a young, predominantly Indigenous community with a declining population. The median age of 27 highlights its youthfulness, while large households and extended families remain common. Although unemployment and poverty are higher than average, median household incomes are relatively strong compared to many rural communities in Newfoundland and Labrador.
One unique feature of Sheshatshiu 3 is its deep cultural and linguistic connection to the Innu (Montagnais) language, spoken by the vast majority of residents at home.
FAQ
The population of Sheshatshiu 3 was 1,225 in 2021.
It declined by 18.3% from 2016 to 2021.
The median age is 27.0 years, making it a young community.
There were 340 occupied households in 2021, with an average household size of 3.6 people.
Top industries include health care, social services, public administration, and trades.
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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