In 2021, the town of Whitbourne, Newfoundland and Labrador, recorded a population of 955 people, marking a 7.3% increase from its 2016 population of 890. With a land area of 21.51 km², Whitbourne has a population density of 44.4 people per square kilometre, making it a modestly populated rural town in eastern Newfoundland. Known historically as the first inland settlement on the island, Whitbourne continues to reflect steady growth and a community rooted in tradition.
Population Growth Trends
Between 2016 and 2021, Whitbourne’s population rose by 65 residents, reflecting a positive growth trend. This increase is notable given the broader demographic challenges faced by many rural communities in Newfoundland and Labrador, where outmigration and aging populations are common.
Age Distribution
Whitbourne has a median age of 51.6 years, which is higher than the provincial median, underscoring the town’s aging population. About one-quarter (25.1%) of residents are 65 years or older, while just 12.6% are children under 15.
Age Distribution in Whitbourne, 2021
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 120 | 12.6% |
| 15–64 years | 595 | 62.3% |
| 65+ years | 240 | 25.1% |
This age structure highlights the importance of health care, senior services, and retention strategies for younger families in the town.
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Whitbourne had 584 private dwellings, of which 419 were occupied by usual residents. Most households are small, with two-person households being the most common (170). The average household size was 2.3 people.
Housing in Whitbourne is dominated by single-detached homes (400 dwellings), with smaller numbers of row houses and apartments.
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity)
Whitbourne remains a predominantly English-speaking and non-visible minority community. Out of 950 residents in private households, 925 (97.4%) identified as not belonging to a visible minority, while just 25 residents reported as part of a visible minority group.
There is also a small but meaningful Indigenous presence, with about 20 residents identifying as First Nations or Inuit.
Visible Minority Status, 2021
| Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Visible Minority | 25 | 2.6% |
| Not Visible Minority | 925 | 97.4% |
Income & Poverty
Whitbourne’s income levels reflect modest rural economic conditions:
- Median individual income (2020): $32,800
- Median after-tax individual income: $30,000
- Median household income (2020): $70,000
- Median after-tax household income: $62,800
Families with children fare better: couple-with-children families reported a median income of $115,000, compared with $69,500 for couple-only families.
However, 13.4% of the population lived below the Low-Income Measure (LIM-AT) in 2020, with the highest poverty rates among seniors (30% of those aged 65+).
Education
Education levels in Whitbourne show that many residents pursue trades and college credentials:
Highest Education Attainment (Population 15+)
| Education Level | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma/degree | 200 | 24.5% |
| High school diploma | 210 | 25.8% |
| Postsecondary certificate/diploma/degree | 400 | 49.1% |
Of those with postsecondary education, most hold college diplomas (185) or apprenticeship/trades certificates (115), while 80 residents attained a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Employment
In 2021, Whitbourne had a participation rate of 54% and an employment rate of 44.2%, with an unemployment rate of 18.2% — significantly higher than the national average.
Key employment sectors included:
- Sales & Service Occupations: 135 workers
- Trades, Transport & Equipment Operators: 90 workers
- Health Care & Social Assistance: 60 workers
- Retail Trade: 60 workers
- Public Administration: 50 workers
This shows Whitbourne’s economy relies on service, trades, health, and government-related work.
Commuting & Transportation
Most employed residents commute to work by car, truck, or van (275 people), with the majority driving themselves. A smaller share walk (15) or use other methods (25). Public transit is not used locally.
Commuting Duration:
- Less than 15 minutes: 205 workers
- 15–29 minutes: 35 workers
- 30–44 minutes: 25 workers
- 45 minutes or more: 55 workers
These numbers suggest Whitbourne residents typically work nearby or commute within a short distance.
Conclusion
The population of Whitbourne in 2021 was 955, reflecting a 7.3% increase since 2016. With a median age of 51.6 years, Whitbourne is home to an aging community, but it maintains strong family households and solid income levels, especially among families with children. The town’s workforce is concentrated in trades, services, and health care, with short commutes reflecting its rural lifestyle.
A unique aspect of Whitbourne is its role as Newfoundland’s first inland settlement, continuing to balance heritage with gradual growth in the modern era.
FAQ
The population of Whitbourne was 955 in 2021, up from 890 in 2016.
Whitbourne’s population grew by 7.3% between 2016 and 2021.
The median age in Whitbourne is 51.6 years.
There were 419 occupied private dwellings in Whitbourne in 2021.
The leading sectors are sales and service, trades and transport, health care, retail, 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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