According to the 2021 Census of Population, the town of St. Lawrence, Newfoundland and Labrador recorded a population of 1,115 residents. This marks a decline of 6.5% from the 2016 population of 1,192, meaning the town lost 77 residents in five years.
St. Lawrence covers a land area of 34.86 km², resulting in a population density of 32.0 people per square kilometre. Known historically as the “Soccer Capital of Canada” and with deep ties to the fishing industry, St. Lawrence today reflects the demographic challenges faced by many small Newfoundland communities.
Population Growth Trends
St. Lawrence’s population has been steadily declining over recent census periods, reflecting aging demographics and out-migration of younger residents.
- 2016 Population: 1,192
- 2021 Population: 1,115
- Change: -77 people (-6.5%)
This trend underscores the town’s demographic pressures, with younger families moving to urban centres for employment opportunities while older age groups remain.
Age Distribution
St. Lawrence is an older community with a median age of 54.8 and an average age of 49.5. Over 30.5% of residents are aged 65 and over, which is significantly higher than the provincial and national averages.
Age Breakdown
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 130 | 11.7% |
| 15–64 years | 645 | 57.8% |
| 65+ years | 340 | 30.5% |
The large proportion of seniors signals a continued need for healthcare, social support, and age-friendly infrastructure.
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, St. Lawrence had 598 private dwellings, of which 485 were occupied by usual residents. The average household size was 2.2 persons.
- Single-detached houses: 470
- Households of 1 person: 130
- Households of 2 persons: 215
This reflects a predominance of small family or senior households, with housing stock mainly consisting of detached homes.
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
St. Lawrence’s population is overwhelmingly English-speaking and identifies primarily with European and Canadian origins. Visible minorities represent less than 1% of residents. Indigenous identity was reported by about 20 individuals (First Nations).
Ethnic Origins Reported
| Ethnic / Cultural Origin | Population |
|---|---|
| Canadian | 415 |
| English | 370 |
| Irish | 345 |
| Scottish | 65 |
| French (n.o.s.) | 70 |
| Newfoundlander | 60 |
| Italian | 30 |
| Mi’kmaq (n.o.s.) | 15 |
| Other single responses | <20 each |
The community retains a strong Irish and English heritage, reflecting the settlement history of Newfoundland’s Burin Peninsula.
Income & Poverty
St. Lawrence households report moderate incomes compared with other small Newfoundland towns.
- Median household income (2020): $66,000
- Median after-tax household income: $58,400
- Median income of one-person households: $28,200
- Median income of two-or-more-person households: $81,000
Poverty Indicators
- Population in low income (after-tax LIM): 17.2%
- Children (0–17) in low income: 15.0%
- Seniors (65+) in low income: 34.0%
This highlights income challenges among older residents, with many dependent on government transfers.
Education
Education levels in St. Lawrence are modest, with a large proportion of residents having trade or college training rather than university degrees.
| Highest Certificate/Diploma/Degree (15+ years) | Population |
|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma/degree | 185 |
| High school diploma | 335 |
| Postsecondary certificate/diploma | 355 |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | 65 |
The most common fields of postsecondary study were trades, construction, health, and business programs.
Employment
In 2021, the labour force participation rate was 53.5%, with an employment rate of 43.9% and a high unemployment rate of 18.0%.
Employment by Occupation
| Occupation Category | Population (15+) |
|---|---|
| Education, law, social, community & government services | 100 |
| Trades, transport & equipment operators | 100 |
| Health occupations | 65 |
| Sales & service | 85 |
| Manufacturing & utilities | 45 |
| Natural resources (fishing/mining) | 45 |
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Population |
|---|---|
| Health care & social assistance | 150 |
| Mining, quarrying, oil & gas | 70 |
| Manufacturing | 60 |
| Educational services | 50 |
| Construction | 25 |
| Retail trade | 15 |
| Transportation & warehousing | 15 |
Healthcare is the largest sector, employing nearly one-third of the labour force. Mining and fisheries also remain important.
Commuting & Transportation
Most employed residents of St. Lawrence work locally and commute by car.
- Main mode of commuting:
- Car, truck or van: 340
- Walked: 50
- Other: 10
- Public transit: 0
- Commute times:
- Less than 15 minutes: 345
- 15–29 minutes: 25
- 30–44 minutes: 20
- 60+ minutes: 15
This reflects the small-town context where most residents live near their workplace.
Conclusion
The population of St. Lawrence in 2021 was 1,115, a decline of 6.5% since 2016. With a median age of 54.8, nearly one-third of residents are seniors, making it one of the older communities in Newfoundland.
Households are small and incomes are modest, with poverty rates high among seniors. The town’s economy leans on healthcare, mining, and traditional trades, while commuting is short and car-based.
A unique characteristic of St. Lawrence is its strong Irish heritage and cultural identity, which continues to shape the town’s traditions and community life.
FAQ
The population of St. Lawrence was 1,115 in 2021.
The town’s population declined by 6.5% between 2016 and 2021.
The median age is 54.8 years, making it an older population compared with the Canadian average.
There were 485 occupied households in St. Lawrence in 2021, with an average size of 2.2 persons.
Healthcare, mining, construction trades, and fishing remain the primary sectors of employment.
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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