In 2021, the town of Wabana, Newfoundland and Labrador, recorded a population of 1,815 residents, according to the Census of Population. This represented a decline of 15.4% compared to 2016, when the population stood at 2,146—a loss of 331 people.
Wabana covers a land area of 14.49 km², resulting in a population density of 125.3 people per km². Once a bustling mining town, Wabana’s demographic trends now reflect an aging population and economic challenges, but it remains a close-knit community.
Population Growth Trends
Between 2016 and 2021, Wabana experienced a significant population decrease of 15.4%. This decline stands out in contrast to the overall provincial trend, where some towns maintained relative stability.
The sharp drop suggests both out-migration and a natural population decline due to an older age profile.
Age Distribution
The median age in Wabana is 56.8 years, considerably higher than the national median of 41.6. The town’s aging population highlights a demographic shift that poses challenges for workforce renewal and service demand.
Age Breakdown
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 215 | 11.8% |
| 15–64 years | 1,030 | 56.7% |
| 65+ years | 570 | 31.4% |
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Wabana had 1,181 total private dwellings, with 951 occupied by usual residents. The average household size was 1.9 persons, reflecting the prevalence of smaller families and seniors living alone.
| Household Size | Households |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 395 |
| 2 persons | 355 |
| 3 persons | 115 |
| 4 persons | 65 |
| 5+ persons | 15 |
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
Wabana is a predominantly English-speaking and non-visible-minority community. In 2021:
- English was the mother tongue of nearly all residents.
- No significant visible minority groups were recorded.
- Indigenous identity was reported by a small portion (about 15 individuals).
| Ethnic Origin (Top Responses) | Population |
|---|---|
| Canadian | 835 |
| English | 770 |
| Irish | 350 |
| Newfoundlander | 160 |
| Scottish | 45 |
Income & Poverty
Income levels in Wabana reflect modest earnings and a high prevalence of low income.
- Median household income (2020): $36,000
- Median after-tax household income: $35,200
- Median income for one-person households: $23,200
- Median income for two-person households: $52,800
- Prevalence of low income (LIM-AT): 41.4% of residents
Household Income Groups (2020)
| Income Range | Households |
|---|---|
| Under $20,000 | 145 |
| $20k–$39,999 | 395 |
| $40k–$59,999 | 120 |
| $60k–$99,999 | 180 |
| $100,000+ | 100 |
Education
Educational attainment in Wabana skews toward high school completion and trades or college diplomas.
| Education Level | Population (15+) |
|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma/degree | 510 |
| High school diploma | 540 |
| Postsecondary certificate | 465 |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | 85 |
Employment
Wabana’s labour force participation is low, reflecting its aging population.
- Employment rate: 24.6%
- Unemployment rate: 12.2%
- Participation rate: 28.0%
Employment by Sector
| Industry Sector | Workers |
|---|---|
| Construction | 70 |
| Retail trade | 80 |
| Transportation & warehousing | 40 |
| Health care & social assistance | 85 |
| Public administration | 35 |
| Education | 25 |
| Trades & equipment operation | 130 |
| Sales & service | 115 |
Commuting & Transportation
Most workers in Wabana commute by private vehicle, though public transit is also used.
| Mode of Transportation | Workers |
|---|---|
| Car, truck, van | 260 |
| Public transit | 55 |
| Walked | 25 |
| Other | 10 |
Average commute times vary, with many facing long travel durations:
- Less than 15 minutes: 160
- 60 minutes or more: 105
Conclusion
The 2021 Census highlights a shrinking and aging population in Wabana, with over 31% of residents aged 65 or older. Income levels are modest, and low-income prevalence is high, reflecting economic pressures. Yet, the community retains strong cultural roots, with Canadian, English, and Irish heritage dominating.
A unique feature of Wabana is its history as a former iron-ore mining hub, which continues to shape its identity despite demographic shifts.
FAQ
The population of Wabana in 2021 was 1,815, down from 2,146 in 2016.
Wabana’s population is shrinking, having declined by 15.4% between 2016 and 2021.
The median age is 56.8 years, significantly higher than the national average.
There were 951 occupied private households in 2021, with an average household size of 1.9 persons.
Key sectors include retail trade, health care and social assistance, construction, trades, 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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