Whitehorse, the capital and largest city of Yukon, continues to grow steadily and remains the central hub of the territory. In 2024, the total population of Yukon is 46,704, with Whitehorse accounting for 38,000 residents. This means that over 81% of Yukon’s entire population lives in Whitehorse, highlighting its importance as the social, economic, and cultural heart of the territory.
Total Population
38,000
Median Age
37.5 years
Land Area
8,465.21 km²
Whitehorse Population by Age
Whitehorse has a relatively young population compared to many Canadian regions, but it also shows a growing number of seniors. The distribution is as follows:
- 0 to 14 years: 6,000 residents
- 15 to 64 years: 26,676 residents
- 65 years and older: 5,324 residents
- Median age: 37.5 years
This median age indicates a balanced demographic, with a strong working-age population and a rising senior segment that will play a key role in shaping future services and infrastructure.
Housing, Density, and Area Stats for Whitehorse
According to the most recent Census data (2021):
- Population (2021): 31,913 (now grown to 38,000 in 2024)
- Total private dwellings: 14,121
- Occupied private dwellings: 13,186
- Land area: 8,465.21 km²
- Population density (2021): 3.8 people per km²
- National population rank (2021): 83rd
- Territorial population rank (2021): 1st (largest in Yukon)
Whitehorse is characterized by vast land coverage with low population density, reflecting its northern geography. Despite its small population compared to major Canadian cities, it is the most densely populated community in Yukon.
Whitehorse Demographics – Racial & Ethnic Composition
Whitehorse is a diverse city, home to both Indigenous communities and visible minorities from across the globe. While the majority of residents are not visible minorities, immigration has contributed to the city’s growing multicultural character.
Visible Minority Population in Whitehorse (2021 Census Data)
| Ethnic Group | Population | Percent of Total Population (38,000) |
|---|---|---|
| South Asian | 985 | 2.6% |
| Chinese | 565 | 1.5% |
| Black | 530 | 1.4% |
| Filipino | 1,830 | 4.8% |
| Arab | 20 | 0.05% |
| Latin American | 225 | 0.6% |
| Southeast Asian | 150 | 0.4% |
| West Asian | 20 | 0.05% |
| Korean | 85 | 0.2% |
| Japanese | 170 | 0.4% |
| Visible minority (n.i.e.) | 20 | 0.05% |
| Multiple visible minorities | 135 | 0.35% |
| Not a visible minority | 26,700 | 70.3% |
The largest visible minority groups in Whitehorse are Filipino (4.8%), South Asian (2.6%), and Chinese (1.5%). Together, they reflect the city’s growing cultural diversity while the majority (70.3%) remain outside visible minority categories.
FAQ
In 2024, Whitehorse has a population of 38,000 residents, making up more than 81% of Yukon’s total population.
Yes, Whitehorse is by far the largest city in Yukon, ranking first in the territory by population and serving as its capital.
The median age in Whitehorse in 2024 is 37.5 years, reflecting a relatively young and balanced population.
The Filipino community is the largest visible minority in Whitehorse, accounting for 4.8% of the population.
In 2024, there are 5,324 residents aged 65 and older in Whitehorse, showing a growing senior population.
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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