Triton, a small town in Newfoundland and Labrador, reported a population of 896 people in 2021, according to Statistics Canada. This represents a decline of 8.9% from 2016, when the population was 983—a drop of 87 residents over five years. With a land area of 7.54 km², Triton has a population density of 118.9 people per km², reflecting its rural character.
Population Growth Trends
The last census period (2016–2021) revealed a decline in Triton’s population. The loss of nearly 9% contrasts with some other rural towns in Newfoundland and Labrador facing similar demographic challenges, often tied to youth out-migration and an aging population.
Age Distribution
Triton has an average age of 47.5 and a median age of 52.0, notably higher than the provincial median of 48.4. A quarter of residents (25.7%) are seniors aged 65 and older, while only 11.7% are children under 15, showing a clear aging trend.
Age Distribution in Triton (2021):
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 105 | 11.7% |
| 15–64 years | 560 | 62.6% |
| 65+ years | 230 | 25.7% |
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Triton had 457 private dwellings, of which 390 were occupied. The majority (375) are single-detached houses, while a small number (10) are low-rise apartments.
Household Size in Triton (2021):
| Household Size | Number of Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 80 |
| 2 persons | 185 |
| 3 persons | 55 |
| 4 persons | 40 |
| 5+ persons | 20 |
The average household size is 2.3 persons, indicating smaller households typical of aging communities.
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
Triton is overwhelmingly English-speaking and non-visible minority. Nearly the entire population (890 out of 895) reported English as their mother tongue, with no significant representation from French or Indigenous languages.
In terms of ethnic or cultural origin, the most commonly reported identities include English (365), Canadian (305), and Irish (80). Small numbers identified as Scottish (30), French (15), or Swedish (25). About 70 residents identified as Newfoundlander, a regional identity.
Ethnic Origins in Triton (Selected, 2021):
| Origin | Population |
|---|---|
| English | 365 |
| Canadian | 305 |
| Irish | 80 |
| Scottish | 30 |
| French (n.o.s.) | 15 |
| Swedish | 25 |
| Newfoundlander | 70 |
Income & Poverty
The median household income in 2020 was $70,500, while the after-tax median was $62,800. Families with children tended to earn more, with couple-with-children households reporting a median income of $105,000.
However, income inequality exists. About 19.4% of the population lived in low income (LIM-AT), with seniors particularly affected—45% of residents aged 65+ were in low income.
Household Income in Triton (2020):
| Household Type | Median Income |
|---|---|
| All households | $70,500 |
| One-person households | $25,400 |
| Two-or-more-person households | $83,000 |
| Couple-with-children families | $105,000 |
| One-parent families | $40,800 |
Education
Educational attainment in Triton is modest compared to larger centres. Among residents aged 15 and older:
- 37.5% had no certificate, diploma or degree.
- 26.9% had completed high school only.
- 35% held a postsecondary credential.
Most postsecondary graduates earned college or trades certificates, with only 4.4% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Education Levels in Triton (2021):
| Education Level | Percent |
|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma | 37.5% |
| High school | 26.9% |
| Postsecondary | 35.0% |
| Bachelor’s+ | 4.4% |
Employment
Triton’s labour force participation rate was 56.9% in 2021, with an employment rate of 43.8%. The unemployment rate stood at a high 23.1%, reflecting limited local job opportunities.
Leading industries in Triton include:
- Fishing, hunting, and agriculture (50 workers)
- Manufacturing (80 workers)
- Trades, transport & equipment operation (105 workers)
- Health care & social assistance (45 workers)
- Public administration (25 workers)
Commuting & Transportation
Most employed residents rely on private vehicles. In 2021:
- 86.8% commuted by car, truck, or van (270 as drivers, 25 as passengers).
- 0% used public transit.
- 10.3% used other methods (e.g., boats or seasonal means).
Commute times are short—78% of workers had commutes under 15 minutes, reflecting Triton’s compact geography.
Conclusion
The 2021 Census shows Triton as a shrinking, aging community, with a population of 896, down 8.9% from 2016. The median age of 52 underscores its senior-heavy demographics. Despite relatively stable household incomes, high unemployment and senior poverty rates remain pressing issues. Triton’s unique character lies in its strong English-speaking, Newfoundland heritage identity and its close ties to fishing and resource-based industries.
FAQ
The population of Triton, NL was 896 in 2021, a decline from 983 in 2016.
Triton’s population is shrinking, down 8.9% between 2016 and 2021.
The median age is 52 years, higher than the provincial average.
There were 390 occupied private households in 2021, with an average size of 2.3 persons.
Key industries include fishing, manufacturing, trades/transport, health care, and public administration.
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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