According to the 2021 Census of Population by Statistics Canada, the town of Summerford, Newfoundland and Labrador had a total population of 805. This reflects a decline of 11.1% compared to the 2016 population of 906. Covering a land area of 16.04 km², Summerford’s population density was 50.2 persons per square kilometre in 2021, highlighting its rural, small-town character.
Population Growth Trends
Summerford’s population decreased by 101 residents between 2016 and 2021, continuing a trend of outmigration and aging population observed across many rural communities in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Age Distribution
The town has a median age of 53.6 years and an average age of 50.0, which is significantly higher than the provincial median. Nearly one-third of residents are aged 65 or older, showing a strong aging demographic trend.
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 85 | 10.6% |
| 15–64 years | 485 | 60.2% |
| 65+ years | 235 | 29.2% |
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Summerford recorded 432 private dwellings, with 368 occupied by usual residents. Most homes are single-detached houses, and the average household size was 2.2 persons.
| Household Size | Number of Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 90 |
| 2 persons | 170 |
| 3 persons | 65 |
| 4 persons | 25 |
| 5+ persons | 15 |
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity & Languages)
Summerford is a predominantly English-speaking community. In 2021, 800 residents reported English as their mother tongue, and only 5 reported a non-official language.
The town is overwhelmingly non-visible minority (100%). Indigenous identity is present among about 20 residents, including Inuit responses.
Income & Poverty
The median total income of individuals in Summerford was $30,200 in 2020, while the median after-tax income was $27,400. Household median income stood at $54,400. Families with children reported higher median incomes, while one-person households earned significantly less.
Low income affects nearly a quarter of residents (24.8%) based on the after-tax Low-Income Measure (LIM-AT), with seniors aged 65+ showing the highest prevalence at 46%.
| Income Group (Individuals 15+) | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Under $20,000 | 215 | 30.1% |
| $20,000–$39,999 | 260 | 36.4% |
| $40,000–$59,999 | 155 | 21.7% |
| $60,000+ | 75 | 10.8% |
Education
Educational attainment is modest, with 45% of adults (15+) having no certificate, diploma, or degree. About 170 individuals hold a high school diploma, and 215 residents have postsecondary credentials. Only a small number hold university degrees.
| Highest Education Level | Population (15+) |
|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma | 320 |
| High school | 170 |
| Postsecondary (college, trades, etc.) | 215 |
| University degree | 35 |
Employment
Summerford had a labour force participation rate of 42.6%, with an employment rate of 31.9% and a high unemployment rate of 25.0%. This reflects challenges in retaining younger workers and limited local employment opportunities.
| Employment by Industry (2021) | Workers |
|---|---|
| Agriculture, forestry, fishing & hunting | 85 |
| Trades, transport & equipment operators | 75 |
| Education, law, social services | 50 |
| Health care & social assistance | 40 |
| Retail trade & transportation | 55 |
Commuting & Transportation
Like many rural Newfoundland towns, Summerford is heavily car-dependent.
| Mode of Transport | Workers |
|---|---|
| Car, truck, or van (driver & passenger) | 210 |
| Public transit | 0 |
| Walk/bike/other | 0 |
Most commutes were under 30 minutes, with 135 workers commuting less than 15 minutes to work.
Conclusion
The 2021 Census shows that Summerford’s population is aging and declining, with a median age of 53.6 years and nearly 30% of residents aged 65 or older. While incomes are modest and unemployment is high, the town maintains strong family structures, a close-knit English-speaking community, and a local economy historically tied to fishing and trades. Its unique characteristic lies in its resilient rural identity, with deep cultural and family roots in Newfoundland’s outport heritage.
FAQ
The population of Summerford in 2021 was 805, down from 906 in 2016.
Summerford’s population is shrinking, having declined by 11.1% between 2016 and 2021.
The median age is 53.6 years, reflecting an older population compared to provincial and national averages.
There were 368 occupied private dwellings in 2021, with an average household size of 2.2 persons.
Key industries include fishing, agriculture, trades, education, and health services.
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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