Saugeen Shores, Ontario — Population & Demographics (2026)
Data source: Statistics Canada, 2021 Census of Population — View the official Saugeen Shores census dataset on Statistics Canada
- Population (2021)
- 15,908
- +16.0% since 2016
- Density
- 93.5
- people per km²
- Land area
- 170
- km²
- Median age
- 46.8
- years
- Median household income
- $103,000
- 2020, before tax
- Unemployment rate
- 8.0%
- 2021 Census
This article shows the demographic data and statistics of Saugeen Shores. It is a town in Canada that encompasses a land area of 170.19 km2. The town has a population density of 93.50 people per km2.
We highlight the Saugeen Shores town's various population characteristics. From gender, age distribution, ethnicity, household and dwelling, and income to spoken languages, occupation, and religion.
Saugeen Shores on the Map
- Points of interest (30)
- Places to visit (8)
Saugeen Shores location on the map. View in Google Maps
Population Characteristics
According to the latest census, Saugeen Shores has a population of around 15,908 people. The town's population is in increased. Between 2016 and 2021, the population of Saugeen Shores has increased by ▲ 15.99%.
| Population in 2016 | Population in 2021 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 13,715 | 15,908 | +15.99% |
2026 Population Projection
Based on the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.01% observed between the 2016 and 2021 censuses, Saugeen Shores's population is projected to reach approximately 18,452 people by 2026, with a projected population density of around 108.42 people per km².
| Population in 2021 | Projected Population in 2026 | Projected Density in 2026 (per km²) |
|---|---|---|
| 15,908 | 18,452 | 108.42 |
This projection is an estimate calculated by CAPopulation from the compound annual growth rate between the 2016 and 2021 censuses. Official 2026 complete census data expected to be released in late 2027.
Saugeen Shores Population Trend & Context
Saugeen Shores is the 96th-largest town in Ontario, with a 2021 census population of 15,908 — an increase of 2,193 (▲ 15.99%) people from the 13,715 recorded in 2016.
The town's population has grown steadily over this period, reflecting broader growth trends among Ontario towns. The town's median age of 46.8 years — above the national median of 41.9 — suggests a mature, established community rather than a rapidly growing one.
How does Saugeen Shores compare to other Ontario towns?
- 94th Bracebridge 17,305
- 95th Greater Napanee 16,879
- 96th Saugeen Shores This town 15,908
- 97th West Lincoln 15,454
- 98th Kenora 14,967
Population By Genders
The male population of Saugeen Shores is around 7,715 while the female population is around 8,190.
Of the 15,908 total population in Saugeen Shores, the largest gender is female with around 8,190 female within the population.
| Male | Female | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 7,715 | 8,190 | +5.80% |
Is Saugeen Shores a Good Place to Live?
Based on 2021 Statistics Canada Census data, here's how Saugeen Shores compares across key quality-of-life indicators — measured against Ontario, its own province. Draw your own conclusions from the actual numbers.
Employment & Economy
Income & Affordability
Commute
Housing Character
Household Composition
Source: Statistics Canada, 2021 Census of Population.
Saugeen Shores Population Compared to Ontario
Ontario's population in 2021 was 14,223,942, spread across the area. Here's how Saugeen Shores compares to the town's key indicators:
| Indicator | Saugeen Shores | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Median household income | $103,000 | $91,000 |
| Unemployment rate | 8.0% | 12.2% |
| Median age | 46.8 | 41.6 |
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 31.4% | 33.4% |
| Immigrants (%) | 11.4% | 30.0% |
Population by Age Characteristics
Saugeen Shores has an aging population. The majority of the population is people aged 60 to 64 years old, accounting for 8.80% of the total population. The town median age is 46.80.
| Data | Male | Female | Difference | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60 to 64 years | 640 8.30% | 765 9.30% | 16.34% | 1,400 8.80% |
| 65 to 69 years | 675 8.70% | 725 8.90% | 6.90% | 1,400 8.80% |
| 30 to 34 years | 560 7.30% | 600 7.30% | 6.67% | 1,160 7.30% |
| 70 to 74 years | 545 7.10% | 590 7.20% | 7.63% | 1,140 7.20% |
| 55 to 59 years | 490 6.40% | 620 7.60% | 20.97% | 1,110 7.00% |
| 35 to 39 years | 555 7.20% | 525 6.40% | 5.41% | 1,080 6.80% |
| 5 to 9 years | 470 6.10% | 450 5.50% | 4.26% | 920 5.80% |
| 40 to 44 years | 440 5.70% | 430 5.30% | 2.27% | 875 5.50% |
| 0 to 4 years | 435 5.60% | 420 5.10% | 3.45% | 855 5.40% |
| 25 to 29 years | 430 5.60% | 420 5.10% | 2.33% | 850 5.30% |
| 50 to 54 years | 385 5.00% | 420 5.10% | 8.33% | 810 5.10% |
| 75 to 79 years | 355 4.60% | 410 5.00% | 13.41% | 760 4.80% |
| 10 to 14 years | 395 5.10% | 365 4.50% | 7.59% | 755 4.70% |
| 45 to 49 years | 345 4.50% | 375 4.60% | 8.00% | 720 4.50% |
| 15 to 19 years | 325 4.20% | 305 3.70% | 6.15% | 630 4.00% |
| 20 to 24 years | 305 4.00% | 280 3.40% | 8.20% | 590 3.70% |
| 80 to 84 years | 205 2.70% | 220 2.70% | 6.82% | 430 2.70% |
| 85 years and over | 165 2.10% | 265 3.20% | 37.74% | 425 2.70% |
| 85 to 89 years | 105 1.40% | 175 2.10% | 40.00% | 280 1.80% |
| 90 to 94 years | 50 0.60% | 60 0.70% | 16.67% | 115 0.70% |
Broader Age Groups
If the town's population is divided into broader age groups, most of the population falls into the 15 to 64 years age group. The group accounts for 58.00% of the population. The other age groups, 65 years and over and 0 to 14 years, account for 26.10% and 15.90%, respectively.
If we look at the population data from the broader age groups, we can see that most people in Saugeen Shores are within the 15 to 64 years age group.
| Data | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 to 64 years | 58.00% | 57.90% | 58.00% |
| 65 years and over | 25.30% | 27.00% | 26.10% |
| 0 to 14 years | 16.80% | 15.10% | 15.90% |
Explore Saugeen Shores Through Videos
Population of Saugeen Shores by Ethnicity and Origin
The population of Saugeen Shores is quite diverse, which contributes to the town's vibrant cultural landscape. Saugeen Shores is inclusive and accepts various ethnic groups with open arms. Furthermore, the town appreciates the unique contributions that each ethnicity brings.
The top 5 ethnicities and origins in Saugeen Shores are English, which accounts for 33.12% of the total population, followed by Scottish (28.42%), Irish (25.26%), German (17.71%), and Canadian (15.31%).
Other ethnicities and origins in Saugeen Shores include French, British Isles, Dutch, Italian, and Polish.
| Ethnicity and Origin | Male | Female | Percentage in Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | 32.04% | 34.06% | 33.12% |
| Scottish | 27.31% | 29.51% | 28.42% |
| Irish | 24.23% | 26.28% | 25.26% |
| German | 16.81% | 18.56% | 17.71% |
| Canadian | 15.56% | 15.07% | 15.31% |
| French | 8.86% | 10.83% | 9.88% |
| British Isles | 4.46% | 4.73% | 4.57% |
| Dutch | 4.73% | 3.67% | 4.16% |
| Italian | 3.74% | 3.11% | 3.42% |
| Polish | 3.28% | 2.99% | 3.07% |
Indigenous Identity in Saugeen Shores
About 4.32% of Saugeen Shores's population (675 people) identify with an Indigenous identity, compared to 95.68% who report a non-Indigenous identity.
Of the Indigenous population, 295 people (1.90% of the total population) hold Registered or Treaty Indian status.
Immigration Profile
Immigration patterns vary a great deal from one area to another, which makes this data one of the more distinctive parts of Saugeen Shores's population profile.
About 11.4% of Saugeen Shores's population are immigrants (1,785 people).
The top countries of origin for Saugeen Shores's immigrant population are United Kingdom (505), India (245), Pakistan (145), United States of America (115), Germany (65).
| Country of Birth | Population |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 505 |
| India | 245 |
| Pakistan | 145 |
| United States of America | 115 |
| Germany | 65 |
97.3% of Saugeen Shores's residents (15,215 people) are Canadian citizens, and 2.7% are not.
By generation status, 12.5% of residents are first generation (born outside Canada), 14.5% are second generation, and 72.9% are third generation or more.
Household and Dwelling Characteristics
About 5,170 of Saugeen Shores's population live in a single-detached house. In addition, most of them are living in 2 persons household.
Household Size
About 20.45% of the population lives in 2 persons households. 1 person households ranked second, accounting for 14.50% of the population. 3 persons, 4 persons, and 5 or more persons households account for 6.20%, 6.00%, and 2.80%, respectively.
| Number of Person(s) in Household | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 2 persons | 2,825 | 20.45% |
| 1 person | 2,005 | 14.50% |
| 3 persons | 855 | 6.20% |
| 4 persons | 830 | 6.00% |
| 5 or more persons | 385 | 2.80% |
Dwelling & Housing Detail
Of the 6,905 occupied private dwellings in Saugeen Shores, 80.3% are owner-occupied (5,545) and 19.6% are rented (1,355). The median value of owned dwellings is $572,000 (average $615,500).
Period of Construction
17.3% of Saugeen Shores's occupied private dwellings were built in 1960 or before, while 12.4% were built between 2016 and 2021.
Family and Household Structure in Saugeen Shores
Of census families in Saugeen Shores, 89.0% are couple families and 11.0% are one-parent families. The average census family has 2.7 people.
29.0% of households in Saugeen Shores are one-person households, 58.7% are couple-family households, 6.7% are one-parent-family households, and 1.4% are multigenerational households.
| Household Type | Households | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| One-person households | 2,005 | 29.0% |
| Couple-family households | 4,050 | 58.7% |
| One-parent-family households | 460 | 6.7% |
| Multigenerational households | 100 | 1.4% |
Income in Saugeen Shores
Analyzing income distribution in Saugeen Shores can help us better understand its socioeconomic dynamics.
Per Capita Income
According to 2020 data, the median personal income within Saugeen Shores is $48,400.
A region's per capita data sheds light on the average income earned per person living in it. Since per capita income is calculated by dividing the region's total income by its population, it quantifies the population's economic situation on an individual basis.
Such data offers insights into the town's economic performance, spread of income across individuals, quality of life, as well as disparities within its borders.
Most of Saugeen Shores population or around 1,590 people falls in the $10,000 to $29,999 group. The next largest groups are the $150,000 and over, and $100,000 to $149,999 with around 1,400 and 1,395 people, respectively.
Household Income
The Saugeen Shores's median household income is $103,000, according to 2020 data.
Above national average Saugeen Shores's median household income is 19,000 dollars above the Canadian national median of $84,000 (2020 data, 2021 Census).
The data provides important insights into the town's economic landscape as well as the living standards of its population.
Analyzing such data enables researchers, policymakers, and businesses to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the town's income distribution, disparities, and trends.
Education Levels in Saugeen Shores
This data sheds light on the distribution of Saugeen Shores residents across educational milestones.
Such information is crucial in shaping the province’s policies on education, workforce development strategies, and initiatives that aim to improve access to quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities.
74.90% or most of the Saugeen Shores population has a Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree. 19.40% of the population has a High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate, and 5.70% has a No certificate, diploma or degree. (Individual figures may not sum to exactly 100% due to Statistics Canada's random rounding of small-area 25% sample data.)
| Degree | Men | Women | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree | 2,855 | 3,095 | 5,955 | 74.90% |
| High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate | 715 | 825 | 1,540 | 19.40% |
| No certificate, diploma or degree | 235 | 220 | 455 | 5.70% |
Above national average 35.2% of Saugeen Shores's population has a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 32.9% (Canada, 2021 Census).
Employment in Saugeen Shores
This dataset provides a snapshot of employment trends in Saugeen Shores. It encompasses a wide range of sectors, industries, as well as job categories.
The data shows that the unemployment rate in Saugeen Shores is at 8.02% which is very high.
| Status | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Employment rate | 51.64% |
| Unemployment rate | 8.02% |
Work Activity During the Reference Year
Of the population aged 15 and over in Saugeen Shores, 31.5% worked full year full time in the reference year, 28.0% worked part year and/or part time, and 40.6% did not work.
| Work Activity | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Worked full year full time | 4,135 | 31.5% |
| Worked part year and/or part time | 3,665 | 28.0% |
| Did not work | 5,320 | 40.6% |
Working as an Employee
The table shows the data on the total number of individuals in the town who work as an employee. The majority of Saugeen Shores's population (around 67.90%) are working permanent position as an employee.
Self-employed
In the town, there are 585 men and 575 women working as self-employed individuals, bringing the total number to 1,160.
| Status | Men | Women | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-employed | 585 | 575 | 1,160 |
Employment Industry Sectors
The Saugeen Shores industry employment sector census data offers insights into the region's economic landscape. The distribution of employment in Saugeen Shores is categorized and quantified, which reveals the region's economic composition.
Saugeen Shores has a wide range of industries. Most of its population (26%) works in the utilities sector. The Retail trade sector comes second at 13%, followed by Health care and social assistance at 11%.
| Industry | Men | Women | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Utilities | 1,440 | 480 | 26% |
| Retail trade | 425 | 505 | 13% |
| Health care and social assistance | 100 | 715 | 11% |
| Construction | 540 | 105 | 9% |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 275 | 235 | 7% |
| Accommodation and food services | 150 | 220 | 5% |
| Educational services | 70 | 260 | 5% |
| Manufacturing | 205 | 110 | 4% |
| Other services (except public administration) | 135 | 135 | 4% |
| Public administration | 105 | 130 | 3% |
| Arts, entertainment and recreation | 70 | 90 | 2% |
| Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services | 75 | 70 | 2% |
| Finance and insurance | 30 | 105 | 2% |
| Real estate and rental and leasing | 35 | 95 | 2% |
| Transportation and warehousing | 50 | 40 | 1% |
| Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting | 50 | 30 | 1% |
| Information and cultural industries | 40 | 45 | 1% |
| Wholesale trade | 40 | 25 | 1% |
| Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction | 10 | 0 | 0% |
| Management of companies and enterprises | 10 | 0 | 0% |
Labour Market Snapshot
A quick snapshot of where Saugeen Shores residents work — the leading industry sectors employing them, and the broad occupation categories they work in.
Top employer sectors in Saugeen Shores: Utilities (26%), Retail trade (13%), Health care and social assistance (11%)
Top occupation categories in Saugeen Shores: Sales and service occupations (24%), Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupations (16%), Business, finance and administration occupations (14%)
Places of Work
The data offers insights into the commuting patterns as well as workplace distribution in the town. It provides a snapshot of workplaces, showing their geographic distribution and the flow of workers across different areas.
| Work Location | Men | Women | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Usual place of work | 2,670 | 2,030 | 4,705 | 69.50% |
| Worked at home | 685 | 905 | 1,590 | 23.50% |
| No fixed workplace address | 315 | 155 | 470 | 6.90% |
| Worked outside Canada | 10 | 0 | 10 | 0.10% |
Commuting
The data sheds light on how Saugeen Shores residents travel to school or work. It highlights the frequency of different modes of transportation like walking, cycling, carpooling, and public transit.
The data is pivotal in the making of transportation policies as well as the development of transit systems. Ultimately commuting data contributes to improving the quality of life of Saugeen Shores residents and sustainable urban planning.
Commuting Duration
This data reveals the average time that the residents of Saugeen Shores spend traveling to their workplaces. It also sheds light on the efficiency of the town's public transit systems, and road networks, as well as the accessibility of the town.
| Duration | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Less than 15 minutes | 41.40% |
| 15 to 29 minutes | 28.30% |
| 30 to 44 minutes | 23.00% |
| 45 to 59 minutes | 5.10% |
| 60 minutes and over | 2.30% |
Marital Status
The statistics on marital status in Saugeen Shores shed light on its societal dynamics. It captures the diverse types of marital statuses of the population.
Long-term commitments, such as common-law partnerships, civil unions, and marriages, reflect the town's social fabric. We can gain insights into Saugeen Shores's changing preferences and norms by examining the trends in marital status.
Language Spoken
The data below highlights town's linguistic diversity, showing elegances of solo language as well as bilingual harmonies. Other than language, it also shows the cultural landscape in Canada.
English is the most spoken official language in Saugeen Shores. About 15,535 people living in the town speak English, 225 people speak French, 40 people speak Neither English nor French language, and 35 people speak English and French language.
| Language | Population |
|---|---|
| English | 15,535 |
| French | 225 |
| Neither English nor French | 40 |
| English and French | 35 |
Knowledge of Official Languages
About 7.3% of Saugeen Shores's population is bilingual, knowing both English and French. 92.4% know English only, 0.0% know French only, and 0.3% know neither official language.
| Knowledge of Official Languages | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| English only | 14,620 | 92.4% |
| French only | 0 | 0.0% |
| English and French | 1,160 | 7.3% |
| Neither English nor French | 45 | 0.3% |
Mother Tongue & Home Language
Useful for newcomers researching an area: this shows the language residents first learned at home in childhood (mother tongue) and the language they speak most often at home now, which can differ as families settle in.
| Language | Mother Tongue | Spoken Most Often at Home |
|---|---|---|
| English | 89.3% | 95.1% |
| Non-official languages | 7.4% | 3.2% |
| French | 1.5% | 0.2% |
Religion
Saugeen Shores is predominantly Christian. About 8,115 of its population is Christian (3,600 males and 4,515 females).
The second largest religion in the town is Muslim with 2.2% of the population adhering to the religion. There are also Hindu and Sikh, both represent 1.4% and 0.5% of the population, while Buddhist represent 0.1% of the population.
| Religion | Population |
|---|---|
| Christian | 51.9% |
| Islam | 2.2% |
| Hindu | 1.4% |
| Sikh | 0.5% |
| Buddhist | 0.1% |
| Jewish | 0.1% |
Points of Interest in Saugeen Shores
Hospitals
Schools
- Saugeen District Senior School
- Port Elgin-Saugeen Central School
- St Joseph's School
- Northport Elementary School
- G.C. Huston Public School
Parks
- Denny's Dam Conservation Area
- Davey Park
- CAW UNIFOR Park
- Helliwell Park
- South Port Park
- Peirson Park
- North Shore Park
- Nodwell Park
- Biener Park
- George Marion Park
- Waterloo Park
- Snyder Park
- Lake Ridge Park
- Police Parkette
- Perkins Park
- Bruce Street United Church Park
- Pioneer Park
- Cameron Park
- Eastwood Park
- Missionary Church Park
- Lamot Sports Park
- Summerside Park
Libraries
Places to Visit in Saugeen Shores
Museums
Attractions
Historic Sites
Stadiums
Theatres
Nearest Towns to Saugeen Shores
- South Bruce Peninsula 17.2 km away · 9,137 people
- Georgian Bluffs 35.9 km away · 11,100 people
- Chatsworth 37.8 km away · 7,080 people
- Hanover 46.9 km away · 7,967 people
- Huron-Kinloss 53.1 km away · 7,723 people
- Morley 53.5 km away · 493 people
- Howick 71.0 km away · 4,045 people
- Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh 73.1 km away · 5,884 people
Methodology
- Data vintage: Reference date was Census Day, May 11, 2021. Statistics Canada released this profile in stages starting February 9, 2022, with later characteristics added through the remainder of 2022.
- Rounding & suppression: To protect respondent confidentiality, Statistics Canada randomly rounds every count shown here, and withholds some characteristics entirely for areas with very small populations. This is why a small number of figures on this page may show as unavailable for smaller places — it reflects a StatCan privacy rule, not missing data on our end.
- Next update: These are the most recent figures available. Canada's next census is scheduled for May 2026, with results expected to begin release in 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions about Saugeen Shores
What is the population of Saugeen Shores?
According to the 2021 Statistics Canada Census, Saugeen Shores has a population of 15,908 people, making it the 96th town in Ontario. The population increased significantly from 13,715 in 2016, an increase of 2,193 people or 15.99%. The town has a population density of 93.5 people per km² across a land area of 170.19 km². The 2026 Census results are expected from Statistics Canada beginning February 2027.
Is the population of Saugeen Shores growing?
Saugeen Shores's population grew by 15.99% between the 2016 and 2021 censuses — from 13,715 to 15,908 people, a gain of 2,193 residents. This growth is above average compared to many other Ontario towns during this period. The median age of 46.80 years suggests an aging population. Official 2026 Census data, which will confirm whether this trend continued, is expected from Statistics Canada in February 2027.
What is the population density of Saugeen Shores?
Saugeen Shores has a population density of approximately 93.50 people per square kilometre.
How large is Saugeen Shores?
Saugeen Shores covers a land area of approximately 170.19 km².
What is the median age in Saugeen Shores?
The median age of the population in Saugeen Shores is 46.80 years.
What is the largest ethnic group in Saugeen Shores?
The largest ethnic or cultural origin group in Saugeen Shores is English.
What is the median household income in Saugeen Shores?
The median household income in Saugeen Shores is $103,000, based on 2020 data.
What is the most spoken language in Saugeen Shores?
English is the most common first official language spoken in Saugeen Shores.
What is the main religion in Saugeen Shores?
Christian is the predominant religion in Saugeen Shores.
What percentage of Saugeen Shores's population is Indigenous?
According to the 2021 Census, 4.3% of Saugeen Shores's population identifies with an Indigenous identity.
What percentage of Saugeen Shores residents are Canadian citizens?
97.3% of Saugeen Shores's residents are Canadian citizens, based on 2021 Census data.
What percentage of families in Saugeen Shores are one-parent families?
One-parent families make up 11.0% of census families in Saugeen Shores, according to the 2021 Census.
Are there many multigenerational households in Saugeen Shores?
Multigenerational households make up 1.4% of all households in Saugeen Shores, per the 2021 Census.
What percentage of Saugeen Shores's population is bilingual in English and French?
7.3% of Saugeen Shores's population knows both English and French, based on 2021 Census data on knowledge of official languages.
What percentage of Saugeen Shores's workforce works full-time year-round?
Of the population aged 15 and over in Saugeen Shores, 31.5% worked full year full time in the 2021 Census reference year.
Why isn't 2026 census data for Saugeen Shores available yet?
Statistics Canada (statcan.gc.ca) conducted the 2026 Census of Population in May 2026. However, census data goes through an extensive processing, validation, and quality-assurance period before public release. Based on the release plan, the 2026 Census results begin rolling out on February 10, 2027, with complete community-level profiles available by December 1, 2027. Until then, this page uses 2021 Census data as its primary source, supplemented by a population projection estimate for 2026 calculated using the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from the 2016–2021 Census period.