Population Characteristics
According to the latest census, Cape Breton has a population of around 93,694 people. The township's population is in decreased . Between 2016 and 2021, the population of Cape Breton has decreased by ▼ -0.63%.
| Population in 2016 | Population in 2021 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 94,285 | 93,694 | --0.63% |
2026 Population Projection
Cape Breton's population declined between the 2016 and 2021 censuses, so a 2026 growth projection is not shown. The most recent confirmed figure remains the 93,694 people recorded in the 2021 census.
Cape Breton Population Trend & Context
Cape Breton is the 2nd-largest township in Nova Scotia, with a 2021 census population of 93,694 — a decline of 591 (▼ 0.63%) people from the 94,285 recorded in 2016.
The township's population has remained relatively stable over this period, reflecting broader trends in mid-sized Nova Scotia townships. The township's median age of 50.4 years — above the national median of 41.9 — suggests a mature, established community rather than a rapidly growing one.
How does Cape Breton compare to other Nova Scotia townships?
- Halifax: 439,819 (2021)
- Cape Breton: 93,694 (2021) ← 2nd largest
- Kings, Subd. A: 22,355 (2021)
- Colchester, Subd. B: 19,806 (2021)
Population By Genders
The male population of Cape Breton is around 44,885 while the female population is around 48,810.
Of the 93,694 total population in Cape Breton, the largest gender is female with around 48,810 women within the population.
| Male | Female | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 44,885 | 48,810 | -8.04% |
Is Cape Breton a Good Place to Live?
Based on 2021 Statistics Canada Census data, here's how Cape Breton compares across key quality-of-life indicators — measured against Nova Scotia, 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.
Cape Breton Population Compared to Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia's population in 2021 was 969,383, spread across the area. Here's how Cape Breton compares to the township's key indicators:
| Indicator | Cape Breton | Nova Scotia |
|---|---|---|
| Median household income | $62,400 | $71,500 |
| Unemployment rate | 19.5% | 12.7% |
| Median age | 50.4 | 45.6 |
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 19.5% | 27.1% |
| Immigrants (%) | 2.3% | 7.5% |
Population by Age Characteristics
Cape Breton has an aging population. The majority of the population is people aged 60 to 64 years old, accounting for 9.20% of the total population. The township median age is 50.40.
| Data | Male | Female | Difference | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60 to 64 years | 4,080 9.10% | 4,525 9.30% | 9.83% | 8,605 9.20% |
| 65 to 69 years | 3,955 8.80% | 4,140 8.50% | 4.47% | 8,095 8.60% |
| 55 to 59 years | 3,565 7.90% | 4,210 8.60% | 15.32% | 7,775 8.30% |
| 70 to 74 years | 3,215 7.20% | 3,425 7.00% | 6.13% | 6,645 7.10% |
| 50 to 54 years | 2,890 6.40% | 3,145 6.40% | 8.11% | 6,035 6.40% |
| 45 to 49 years | 2,545 5.70% | 2,840 5.80% | 10.39% | 5,385 5.70% |
| 25 to 29 years | 2,740 6.10% | 2,570 5.30% | 6.20% | 5,310 5.70% |
| 20 to 24 years | 2,650 5.90% | 2,440 5.00% | 7.92% | 5,090 5.40% |
| 30 to 34 years | 2,390 5.30% | 2,400 4.90% | 0.42% | 4,790 5.10% |
| 40 to 44 years | 2,190 4.90% | 2,590 5.30% | 15.44% | 4,785 5.10% |
| 35 to 39 years | 2,160 4.80% | 2,500 5.10% | 13.60% | 4,660 5.00% |
| 15 to 19 years | 2,335 5.20% | 2,155 4.40% | 7.71% | 4,490 4.80% |
| 75 to 79 years | 1,950 4.30% | 2,480 5.10% | 21.37% | 4,430 4.70% |
| 10 to 14 years | 2,260 5.00% | 2,145 4.40% | 5.09% | 4,400 4.70% |
| 5 to 9 years | 1,985 4.40% | 1,975 4.00% | 0.50% | 3,960 4.20% |
| 0 to 4 years | 1,735 3.90% | 1,655 3.40% | 4.61% | 3,385 3.60% |
| 80 to 84 years | 1,270 2.80% | 1,725 3.50% | 26.38% | 2,995 3.20% |
| 85 years and over | 970 2.20% | 1,890 3.90% | 48.68% | 2,860 3.10% |
| 85 to 89 years | 670 1.50% | 1,115 2.30% | 39.91% | 1,780 1.90% |
| 90 to 94 years | 220 0.50% | 565 1.20% | 61.06% | 790 0.80% |
| 95 to 99 years | 70 0.20% | 185 0.40% | 62.16% | 255 0.30% |
Broader Age Groups
If the township'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 60.80% of the population. The other age groups, 65 years and over and 0 to 14 years, account for 26.70% and 12.50%, respectively.
If we look at the population data from the broader age groups, we can see that most people in Cape Breton are within the 15 to 64 years age group.
| Data | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age of the population | 49.20% | 52.00% | 50.40% |
| Average age of the population | 45.70% | 48.10% | 46.90% |
| 65 years and over | 25.30% | 28.00% | 26.70% |
| 0 to 14 years | 13.30% | 11.80% | 12.50% |
Photos of Places & Sceneries in Cape Breton
Population of Cape Breton by Ethnicity and Origin
The population of Cape Breton is quite diverse, which contributes to the township's vibrant cultural landscape. Cape Breton is inclusive and accepts various ethnic groups with open arms. Furthermore, the township appreciates the unique contributions that each ethnicity brings.
The top 5 ethnicities and origins in Cape Breton are Scottish, which accounts for 39.24% of the total population, followed by Irish (23.89%), English (21.43%), Canadian (16.26%), and French (14.51%).
Other ethnicities and origins in Cape Breton include Caucasian (White), Cape Bretoner, Italian, German, and European.
| Ethnicity and Origin | Male | Female | Percentage in Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scottish | 38.53% | 39.90% | 39.24% |
| Irish | 23.10% | 24.61% | 23.89% |
| English | 21.10% | 21.71% | 21.43% |
| Canadian | 16.18% | 16.34% | 16.26% |
| French | 14.22% | 14.75% | 14.51% |
| Caucasian (White) | 5.11% | 5.46% | 5.30% |
| Cape Bretoner | 4.38% | 4.16% | 4.27% |
| Italian | 4.02% | 3.84% | 3.92% |
| German | 3.16% | 3.27% | 3.22% |
| European | 2.95% | 2.77% | 2.86% |
Immigration Profile
Immigration patterns vary a great deal from one area to another, which makes this data one of the more distinctive parts of Cape Breton's population profile.
About 2.3% of Cape Breton's population are immigrants (2,120 people).
The top countries of origin for Cape Breton's immigrant population are United Kingdom (370), United States of America (350), Philippines (205), China (120), India (105).
| Country of Birth | Population |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 370 |
| United States of America | 350 |
| Philippines | 205 |
| China | 120 |
| India | 105 |
Household and Dwelling Characteristics
About 31,105 of Cape Breton's population live in a single-detached house. In addition, most of them are living in 2 persons household.
Household Size
About 18.65% of the population lives in 2 persons households. 1 person households ranked second, accounting for 16.60% of the population. 3 persons, 4 persons, and 5 or more persons households account for 7.60%, 4.75%, and 2.40%, respectively.
| Number of Person(s) in Household | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 2 persons | 15,795 | 18.65% |
| 1 person | 14,055 | 16.60% |
| 3 persons | 6,430 | 7.60% |
| 4 persons | 4,025 | 4.75% |
| 5 or more persons | 2,015 | 2.40% |
Income in Cape Breton
Analyzing income distribution in Cape Breton can help us better understand its socioeconomic dynamics.
Per Capita Income
According to 2020 data, the median personal income within Cape Breton is $34,400.
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 township's economic performance, spread of income across individuals, quality of life, as well as disparities within its borders.
Most of Cape Breton population or around 13,780 people falls in the $10,000 to $29,999 group. The next largest groups are the $30,000 to $49,999, and $50,000 to $79,999 with around 9,070 and 7,715 people, respectively.
Household Income
The Cape Breton's median household income is $62,400, according to 2020 data.
Below national average Cape Breton's median household income is 21,600 dollars below the Canadian national median of $84,000 (2020 data, 2021 Census).
The data provides important insights into the township'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 township's income distribution, disparities, and trends.
Education Levels in Cape Breton
This data sheds light on the distribution of Cape Breton 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.
57.35% or most of the Cape Breton population has a Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree. 27.95% of the population has a High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate, 19.45% has a Bachelor's degree or higher, and 14.70% has No certificate, diploma or degree.
| Degree | Men | Women | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree | 32,770 | 38,550 | 71,320 | 57.35% |
| High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate | 17,240 | 18,530 | 35,765 | 27.95% |
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 9,720 | 14,305 | 24,030 | 19.45% |
| No certificate, diploma or degree | 10,385 | 9,735 | 20,125 | 14.70% |
Below national average 19.5% of Cape Breton's population has a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 32.9% (Canada, 2021 Census).
Employment in Cape Breton
This dataset provides a snapshot of employment trends in Cape Breton. It encompasses a wide range of sectors, industries, as well as job categories.
The data shows that the unemployment rate in Cape Breton is at 10.11% which is very high.
| Status | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Employment rate | 41.70% |
| Unemployment rate | 10.11% |
Working as an Employee
The table shows the data on the total number of individuals in the township who work as an employee. The majority of Cape Breton's population (around 65.00%) are working permanent position as an employee.
Self-employed
In the township, there are 1,955 men and 1,025 women working as self-employed individuals, bringing the total number to 2,980.
| Status | Men | Women | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-employed | 1,955 | 1,025 | 2,980 |
Employment Industry Sectors
The Cape Breton industry employment sector census data offers insights into the region's economic landscape. The distribution of employment in Cape Breton is categorized and quantified, which reveals the region's economic composition.
Cape Breton has a wide range of industries. Most of its population (20%) works in the health care and social assistance sector. The Retail trade sector comes second at 13%, followed by Public administration at 9%.
| Industry | Men | Women | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health care and social assistance | 1,610 | 6,510 | 20% |
| Retail trade | 2,450 | 2,910 | 13% |
| Public administration | 1,600 | 1,915 | 9% |
| Educational services | 980 | 2,155 | 8% |
| Construction | 2,780 | 295 | 7% |
| Accommodation and food services | 1,390 | 1,645 | 7% |
| Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services | 1,585 | 1,115 | 7% |
| Transportation and warehousing | 1,270 | 435 | 4% |
| Other services (except public administration) | 810 | 780 | 4% |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 840 | 640 | 4% |
| Manufacturing | 1,085 | 250 | 3% |
| Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting | 1,000 | 215 | 3% |
| Arts, entertainment and recreation | 385 | 360 | 2% |
| Finance and insurance | 235 | 495 | 2% |
| Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction | 520 | 50 | 1% |
| Wholesale trade | 430 | 90 | 1% |
| Utilities | 370 | 35 | 1% |
| Information and cultural industries | 215 | 165 | 1% |
| Real estate and rental and leasing | 230 | 90 | 1% |
| Management of companies and enterprises | 0 | 15 | 0% |
Labour Market Snapshot
A quick snapshot of where Cape Breton residents work — the leading industry sectors employing them, and the broad occupation categories they work in.
Top employer sectors in Cape Breton: Health care and social assistance (20%), -45 Retail trade (13%), Public administration (9%)
Top occupation categories in Cape Breton: Sales and service occupations (29%), 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 township. 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 | 11,060 | 13,550 | 24,605 | 73.50% |
| No fixed workplace address | 3,335 | 1,345 | 4,680 | 14.00% |
| Worked at home | 1,660 | 2,495 | 4,155 | 12.40% |
| Worked outside Canada | 25 | 10 | 30 | 0.10% |
Commuting
The data sheds light on how Cape Breton 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 Cape Breton residents and sustainable urban planning.
Commuting Duration
This data reveals the average time that the residents of Cape Breton spend traveling to their workplaces. It also sheds light on the efficiency of the township's public transit systems, and road networks, as well as the accessibility of the township.
| Duration | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Less than 15 minutes | 46.40% |
| 15 to 29 minutes | 35.60% |
| 30 to 44 minutes | 12.80% |
| 45 to 59 minutes | 2.60% |
| 60 minutes and over | 2.60% |
Marital Status
The statistics on marital status in Cape Bretonshed 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 township's social fabric. We can gain insights into Cape Breton's changing preferences and norms by examining the trends in marital status.
Language Spoken
The data below highlights township'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 Cape Breton. About 91,480 people living in the province speak English, 640 people speak French, 90 people speak Neither English nor French language, and 65 people speak English and French language.
| Language | Population |
|---|---|
| English | 91,480 |
| French | 640 |
| Neither English nor French | 90 |
| English and French | 65 |
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 | 95.2% | 97.3% |
| Non-official languages | 3.2% | 1.8% |
| French | 0.8% | 0.2% |
Religion
Cape Breton is predominantly Christian. About 69,550 of its population is Christian (32,155 males and 32,155 females).
The second largest religion in the province is Hindu with 0.8% of the population adhering to the religion. There are also Sikh and Muslim, both represent 0.6% and 0.5% of the population, while Buddhist represent 0.1% of the population.
| Religion | Population |
|---|---|
| Christian | 75.6% |
| Hindu | 0.8% |
| Sikh | 0.6% |
| Islam | 0.5% |
| Buddhist | 0.1% |
| Jewish | 0.1% |
Points of Interest in Cape Breton
Schools
- MacDonald Elementary School
- Tompkins Memorial Elementary School
- Cape Smokey Elementary School
- Marion Bridge School
Libraries
Community Centres
- Birch Grove Recreation Centre
- St. Patrick's Parish Hall
- Royal Canadian Legion
- WINS Hall Point Edward
- Brooks Haven Recreation
- St Peter's Loins Hall
- River Bourgeois Community Centre
Places to Visit in Cape Breton
Museums
Attractions
- Bras D'or Lookoff
- St. Ann's Lookoff
- Baddeck Bay Lookoff
- Celtic Music Interpretive Centre
- Oceanview Memorial
- Green Cove
- Inverness Memorial Consolidated Hospital
Historic Sites
Green Spaces in Cape Breton
Areas are approximate, calculated from OpenStreetMap boundary data.
Other Townships in Nova Scotia
- Halifax 439,819
- Kings, Subd. A 22,355
- Colchester, Subd. B 19,806
- West Hants 19,509
- Colchester, Subd. C 12,476
- Kings, Subd. B 11,951
- Queens 10,422
- Antigonish, Subd. A 8,963
- Pictou, Subd. C 8,386
- Kings, Subd. C 8,348
- Cumberland, Subd. B 6,786
- Antigonish, Subd. B 6,138
- Pictou, Subd. B 6,137
- Annapolis, Subd. A 5,980
- Cumberland, Subd. C 5,694
- Kings, Subd. D 5,264
- Annapolis, Subd. C 5,218
- Inverness, Subd. A 5,207
- Inverness, Subd. B 4,865
- Annapolis, Subd. B 4,587
- Cumberland, Subd. D 4,283
- Victoria, Subd. B 4,077
- Richmond, Subd. A 3,763
- Colchester, Subd. A 3,762
- Cumberland, Subd. A 3,201
- Inverness, Subd. C 3,167
- Richmond, Subd. C 3,136
- Annapolis, Subd. D 3,049
- Victoria, Subd. A 2,673
- Richmond, Subd. B 1,610
Frequently Asked Questions about Cape Breton
According to the 2021 Statistics Canada Census, Cape Breton has a population of 93,694 people, making it the 2nd township in Nova Scotia. The population declined slightly from 94,285 in 2016, a decrease of 591 people or 0.63%. The township has a population density of 38.7 people per km² across a land area of 2,419.70 km². The 2026 Census results are expected from Statistics Canada beginning February 2027.
Cape Breton's population declined by 0.63% between the 2016 and 2021 censuses — from 94,285 to 93,694 people, a loss of 591 residents. This stability is characteristic of many mid-sized other Nova Scotia townships during this period. The median age of 50.40 years suggests an aging population. The relatively high proportion of one-person households (33.2%) may indicate young adults leaving for larger centres. Official 2026 Census data, which will confirm whether this trend continued, is expected from Statistics Canada in February 2027.
Cape Breton has a population density of approximately 38.70 people per square kilometre.
Cape Breton covers a land area of approximately 2,419.70 km².
The median age of the population in Cape Breton is 50.40 years.
The largest ethnic or cultural origin group in Cape Breton is Scottish.
The median household income in Cape Breton is $62,400, based on 2020 data.
English is the most common first official language spoken in Cape Breton.
Christian is the predominant religion in Cape Breton.
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.