Ontario, Canada’s most populous province, recorded a total population of 16,124,116 in 2024. Among its diverse cities, Thunder Bay stands out as a major urban hub in Northwestern Ontario. In 2024, Thunder Bay’s population reached 133,063, representing approximately 0.83% of Ontario’s total population. While smaller in scale compared to major metropolitan areas, Thunder Bay plays a vital role in the province’s regional economy, culture, and northern connectivity.
Total Population
133,063
Median Age
42 years
Land Area
2,550.79 km²
Thunder Bay Population by Age
Thunder Bay’s demographic structure reflects a mix of working-age residents, seniors, and younger generations. The median age of 42 years indicates a slightly older population compared to Ontario’s overall median, influenced by strong representation in the senior demographic.
| Age Group | Population | Percentage of Total |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 14 years | 18,069 | 13.58% |
| 15 to 64 years | 85,540 | 64.30% |
| 65 years and older | 29,454 | 22.12% |
| All Ages | 133,063 | 100% |
The largest share of the population falls within the 15 to 64 years category, forming the core working-age group. Seniors (65+) make up over one-fifth of the population, reflecting both aging trends and the city’s appeal as a retirement-friendly community.
Housing, Density, and Area Stats for Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay’s geographic and housing statistics offer insights into living conditions and urban density.
- Population (2021): 123,258
- Total private dwellings (2021): 57,877
- Occupied private dwellings (2021): 54,212
- Land area: 2,550.79 km²
- Population density: 48.3 people/km²
- National population rank (2021): 34
- Provincial population rank (2021): 15
The city’s low population density compared to Ontario’s urban centers highlights its expansive land base and balance between developed and natural spaces. The housing stock shows a high occupancy rate, indicating steady residential demand.
Demographics – Racial & Ethnic Composition of Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay’s population is predominantly not part of a visible minority group, but it does host diverse communities contributing to its cultural landscape. The total visible minority population in 2021 was 8,140, accounting for roughly 6.6% of the total population.
Visible Minority Breakdown (2021)
| Group | Population | % of Total Population |
|---|---|---|
| South Asian | 2,755 | 2.24% |
| Chinese | 1,040 | 0.84% |
| Black | 1,245 | 1.01% |
| Filipino | 415 | 0.34% |
| Arab | 460 | 0.37% |
| Latin American | 400 | 0.32% |
| Southeast Asian | 745 | 0.60% |
| West Asian | 190 | 0.15% |
| Korean | 170 | 0.14% |
| Japanese | 315 | 0.26% |
| Visible minority, n.i.e. | 160 | 0.13% |
| Multiple visible minorities | 240 | 0.19% |
| Total visible minority | 8,140 | 6.60% |
| Not a visible minority | 112,825 | 93.40% |
This distribution reflects Thunder Bay’s gradual diversification, with South Asian, Black, and Chinese populations forming the largest visible minority groups.
FAQ
Thunder Bay’s population in 2024 is 133,063, making up about 0.83% of Ontario’s total population.
The median age in Thunder Bay is 42 years, slightly above the provincial median, indicating an older demographic profile.
About 6.6% of residents belong to visible minority groups, with South Asian, Black, and Chinese communities being the largest.
The city has a population density of 48.3 people per square kilometer, which is low compared to Ontario’s urban centers due to its large land area.
In 2021, there were 57,877 total private dwellings, with 54,212 occupied by usual residents, indicating a high occupancy rate.
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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