Population Characteristics
According to the latest census, Laval has a population of around 438,366 people. The city's population is in increased. Between 2016 and 2021, the population of Laval has increased by ▲ 3.63%.
| Population in 2016 | Population in 2021 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 422,993 | 438,366 | +3.63% |
2026 Population Projection
Based on the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 0.72% observed between the 2016 and 2021 censuses, Laval's population is projected to reach approximately 454,298 people by 2026, with a projected population density of around 1,845.76 people per km².
| Population in 2021 | Projected Population in 2026 | Projected Density in 2026 (per km²) |
|---|---|---|
| 438,366 | 454,298 | 1,845.76 |
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.
Laval Population Trend & Context
Laval had a 2021 census population of 438,366 — an increase of 15,373 (▲ 3.63%) people from the 422,993 recorded in 2016.
The city's population has grown slightly over this period, reflecting broader growth trends among Quebec cities. The city's median age of 42.8 years closely mirrors the national median of 41.9, suggesting a demographic profile in line with the Canadian average.
Population By Genders
The male population of Laval is around 213,670 while the female population is around 224,695.
Of the 438,366 total population in Laval, the largest gender is female with around 224,695 female within the population.
| Male | Female | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 213,670 | 224,695 | +4.91% |
Is Laval a Good Place to Live?
Based on 2021 Statistics Canada Census data, here's how Laval compares across key quality-of-life indicators — measured against Quebec, 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.
Laval Population Compared to Quebec
Quebec's population in 2021 was 8,501,833, spread across the area. Here's how Laval compares to the city's key indicators:
| Indicator | Laval | Quebec |
|---|---|---|
| Median household income | $85,000 | $72,500 |
| Unemployment rate | 8.6% | 7.6% |
| Median age | 42.8 | 43.2 |
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 28.6% | 26.5% |
| Immigrants (%) | 31.5% | 14.6% |
Population by Age Characteristics
Laval has an aging population. The majority of the population is people aged 55 to 59 years old, accounting for 7.40% of the total population. The city median age is 42.80.
| Data | Male | Female | Difference | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 55 to 59 years | 16,370 7.70% | 16,285 7.20% | 0.52% | 32,650 7.40% |
| 50 to 54 years | 15,710 7.40% | 15,855 7.10% | 0.91% | 31,565 7.20% |
| 45 to 49 years | 14,635 6.80% | 15,545 6.90% | 5.85% | 30,185 6.90% |
| 60 to 64 years | 14,725 6.90% | 15,035 6.70% | 2.06% | 29,760 6.80% |
| 40 to 44 years | 14,125 6.60% | 15,555 6.90% | 9.19% | 29,680 6.80% |
| 10 to 14 years | 14,560 6.80% | 13,955 6.20% | 4.16% | 28,515 6.50% |
| 35 to 39 years | 12,725 6.00% | 14,250 6.30% | 10.70% | 26,970 6.20% |
| 15 to 19 years | 13,220 6.20% | 12,825 5.70% | 2.99% | 26,040 5.90% |
| 5 to 9 years | 13,125 6.10% | 12,340 5.50% | 5.98% | 25,465 5.80% |
| 20 to 24 years | 12,900 6.00% | 12,315 5.50% | 4.53% | 25,210 5.80% |
| 25 to 29 years | 12,440 5.80% | 12,415 5.50% | 0.20% | 24,860 5.70% |
| 30 to 34 years | 11,685 5.50% | 12,630 5.60% | 7.48% | 24,315 5.50% |
| 65 to 69 years | 11,120 5.20% | 12,300 5.50% | 9.59% | 23,420 5.30% |
| 0 to 4 years | 10,940 5.10% | 10,285 4.60% | 5.99% | 21,220 4.80% |
| 70 to 74 years | 8,935 4.20% | 10,305 4.60% | 13.29% | 19,240 4.40% |
| 75 to 79 years | 6,770 3.20% | 8,600 3.80% | 21.28% | 15,375 3.50% |
| 85 years and over | 4,835 2.30% | 7,490 3.30% | 35.45% | 12,325 2.80% |
| 80 to 84 years | 4,855 2.30% | 6,705 3.00% | 27.59% | 11,565 2.60% |
| 85 to 89 years | 3,235 1.50% | 4,375 1.90% | 26.06% | 7,610 1.70% |
| 90 to 94 years | 1,300 0.60% | 2,475 1.10% | 47.47% | 3,780 0.90% |
| 95 to 99 years | 280 0.10% | 555 0.20% | 49.55% | 830 0.20% |
| 100 years and over | 25 0.00% | 85 0.00% | 70.59% | 110 0.00% |
Broader Age Groups
If the city'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 64.20% of the population. The other age groups, 65 years and over and 0 to 14 years, account for 18.70% and 17.20%, respectively.
If we look at the population data from the broader age groups, we can see that most people in Laval are within the 15 to 64 years age group.
| Data | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 to 64 years | 64.80% | 63.50% | 64.20% |
| 65 years and over | 17.10% | 20.20% | 18.70% |
| 0 to 14 years | 18.10% | 16.30% | 17.20% |
Population of Laval by Ethnicity and Origin
The population of Laval is quite diverse, which contributes to the city's vibrant cultural landscape. Laval is inclusive and accepts various ethnic groups with open arms. Furthermore, the city appreciates the unique contributions that each ethnicity brings.
The top 5 ethnicities and origins in Laval are Canadian, which accounts for 16.04% of the total population, followed by French (14.18%), Italian (8.93%), Lebanese (5.15%), and Haitian (5.07%).
Other ethnicities and origins in Laval include Greek, French Canadian, Arab, Armenian, and Irish.
| Ethnicity and Origin | Male | Female | Percentage in Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canadian | 15.54% | 16.51% | 16.04% |
| French | 14.44% | 13.94% | 14.18% |
| Italian | 9.21% | 8.66% | 8.93% |
| Lebanese | 5.45% | 4.87% | 5.15% |
| Haitian | 4.72% | 5.40% | 5.07% |
| Greek | 4.85% | 4.62% | 4.73% |
| French Canadian | 4.01% | 4.12% | 4.06% |
| Arab | 4.00% | 3.46% | 3.72% |
| Armenian | 3.01% | 2.80% | 2.91% |
| Irish | 2.61% | 2.91% | 2.76% |
Indigenous Identity in Laval
About 0.77% of Laval's population (3,310 people) identify with an Indigenous identity, compared to 99.23% who report a non-Indigenous identity.
Of the Indigenous population, 565 people (0.10% 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 Laval's population profile.
About 31.5% of Laval's population are immigrants (135,315 people).
The top countries of origin for Laval's immigrant population are Lebanon (13,930), Haiti (12,770), Morocco (9,600), Syria (9,445), Algeria (8,670).
| Country of Birth | Population |
|---|---|
| Lebanon | 13,930 |
| Haiti | 12,770 |
| Morocco | 9,600 |
| Syria | 9,445 |
| Algeria | 8,670 |
93.1% of Laval's residents (399,715 people) are Canadian citizens, and 6.9% are not.
By generation status, 33.5% of residents are first generation (born outside Canada), 23.7% are second generation, and 42.8% are third generation or more.
Household and Dwelling Characteristics
About 76,010 of Laval's population live in a single-detached house. In addition, most of them are living in 2 persons household.
Household Size
About 15.45% of the population lives in 2 persons households. 1 person households ranked second, accounting for 13.95% of the population. 4 persons, 3 persons, and 5 or more persons households account for 8.10%, 7.70%, and 4.75%, respectively.
| Number of Person(s) in Household | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 2 persons | 52,445 | 15.45% |
| 1 person | 47,405 | 13.95% |
| 4 persons | 27,550 | 8.10% |
| 3 persons | 26,220 | 7.70% |
| 5 or more persons | 16,170 | 4.75% |
Family and Household Structure in Laval
Of census families in Laval, 82.8% are couple families and 17.2% are one-parent families. The average census family has 3.0 people.
27.9% of households in Laval are one-person households, 54.0% are couple-family households, 10.0% are one-parent-family households, and 2.8% are multigenerational households.
| Household Type | Households | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| One-person households | 47,400 | 27.9% |
| Couple-family households | 91,660 | 54.0% |
| One-parent-family households | 17,045 | 10.0% |
| Multigenerational households | 4,755 | 2.8% |
Income in Laval
Analyzing income distribution in Laval can help us better understand its socioeconomic dynamics.
Per Capita Income
According to 2020 data, the median personal income within Laval is $40,400.
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 city's economic performance, spread of income across individuals, quality of life, as well as disparities within its borders.
Most of Laval population or around 54,970 people falls in the $10,000 to $29,999 group. The next largest groups are the $50,000 to $79,999, and $30,000 to $49,999 with around 49,760 and 48,490 people, respectively.
Household Income
The Laval's median household income is $85,000, according to 2020 data.
Above national average Laval's median household income is 1,000 dollars above the Canadian national median of $84,000 (2020 data, 2021 Census).
The data provides important insights into the city'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 city's income distribution, disparities, and trends.
Education Levels in Laval
This data sheds light on the distribution of Laval 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.
71.60% or most of the Laval population has a Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree. 17.50% of the population has a High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate, and 10.90% 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 | 77,360 | 86,440 | 163,805 | 71.60% |
| High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate | 20,670 | 19,370 | 40,040 | 17.50% |
| No certificate, diploma or degree | 13,865 | 11,110 | 24,970 | 10.90% |
Below national average 32.2% of Laval's population has a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 32.9% (Canada, 2021 Census).
Employment in Laval
This dataset provides a snapshot of employment trends in Laval. It encompasses a wide range of sectors, industries, as well as job categories.
The data shows that the unemployment rate in Laval is at 8.62% which is very high.
| Status | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Employment rate | 59.96% |
| Unemployment rate | 8.62% |
Work Activity During the Reference Year
Of the population aged 15 and over in Laval, 34.4% worked full year full time in the reference year, 30.9% worked part year and/or part time, and 34.7% did not work.
| Work Activity | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Worked full year full time | 122,025 | 34.4% |
| Worked part year and/or part time | 109,510 | 30.9% |
| Did not work | 122,885 | 34.7% |
Working as an Employee
The table shows the data on the total number of individuals in the city who work as an employee. The majority of Laval's population (around 73.30%) are working permanent position as an employee.
Self-employed
In the city, there are 19,915 men and 9,090 women working as self-employed individuals, bringing the total number to 29,000.
| Status | Men | Women | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-employed | 19,915 | 9,090 | 29,000 |
Employment Industry Sectors
The Laval industry employment sector census data offers insights into the region's economic landscape. The distribution of employment in Laval is categorized and quantified, which reveals the region's economic composition.
Laval has a wide range of industries. Most of its population (13%) works in the health care and social assistance sector. The Retail trade sector comes second at 13%, followed by Manufacturing at 9%.
| Industry | Men | Women | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health care and social assistance | 5,980 | 24,695 | 13% |
| Retail trade | 15,375 | 15,295 | 13% |
| Manufacturing | 14,675 | 7,275 | 9% |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 11,135 | 8,290 | 8% |
| Educational services | 4,590 | 12,055 | 7% |
| Transportation and warehousing | 11,110 | 3,090 | 6% |
| Construction | 11,370 | 2,455 | 6% |
| Accommodation and food services | 6,570 | 5,710 | 5% |
| Finance and insurance | 5,135 | 6,510 | 5% |
| Wholesale trade | 6,625 | 4,520 | 5% |
| Public administration | 5,055 | 5,750 | 5% |
| Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services | 6,130 | 4,085 | 4% |
| Other services (except public administration) | 4,600 | 4,760 | 4% |
| Information and cultural industries | 3,150 | 1,780 | 2% |
| Real estate and rental and leasing | 2,075 | 1,675 | 2% |
| Arts, entertainment and recreation | 1,525 | 1,095 | 1% |
| Utilities | 990 | 525 | 1% |
| Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting | 485 | 305 | 0% |
| Management of companies and enterprises | 215 | 295 | 0% |
| Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction | 155 | 75 | 0% |
Labour Market Snapshot
A quick snapshot of where Laval residents work — the leading industry sectors employing them, and the broad occupation categories they work in.
Top employer sectors in Laval: Health care and social assistance (13%), Retail trade (13%), Manufacturing (9%)
Top occupation categories in Laval: Sales and service occupations (27%), Business, finance and administration occupations (20%), Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupations (14%)
Places of Work
The data offers insights into the commuting patterns as well as workplace distribution in the city. 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 | 68,310 | 72,590 | 140,900 | 66.30% |
| Worked at home | 23,365 | 25,030 | 48,390 | 22.80% |
| No fixed workplace address | 17,035 | 5,780 | 22,815 | 10.70% |
| Worked outside Canada | 300 | 105 | 410 | 0.20% |
Commuting
The data sheds light on how Laval 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 Laval residents and sustainable urban planning.
Commuting Duration
This data reveals the average time that the residents of Laval spend traveling to their workplaces. It also sheds light on the efficiency of the city's public transit systems, and road networks, as well as the accessibility of the city.
| Duration | Percentage |
|---|---|
| 15 to 29 minutes | 38.20% |
| 30 to 44 minutes | 24.70% |
| Less than 15 minutes | 20.30% |
| 45 to 59 minutes | 9.10% |
| 60 minutes and over | 7.80% |
Marital Status
The statistics on marital status in Laval 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 city's social fabric. We can gain insights into Laval's changing preferences and norms by examining the trends in marital status.
Language Spoken
The data below highlights city's linguistic diversity, showing elegances of solo language as well as bilingual harmonies. Other than language, it also shows the cultural landscape in Canada.
French is the most spoken official language in Laval. About 299,480 people living in the city speak French, 82,675 people speak English, 43,690 people speak English and French language, and 8,805 people speak Neither English nor French language.
| Language | Population |
|---|---|
| French | 299,480 |
| English | 82,675 |
| English and French | 43,690 |
| Neither English nor French | 8,805 |
Knowledge of Official Languages
About 60.3% of Laval's population is bilingual, knowing both English and French. 5.8% know English only, 31.8% know French only, and 2.1% know neither official language.
| Knowledge of Official Languages | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| English only | 25,280 | 5.8% |
| French only | 138,210 | 31.8% |
| English and French | 262,055 | 60.3% |
| Neither English nor French | 9,100 | 2.1% |
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 |
|---|---|---|
| French | 52.2% | 58.5% |
| Non-official languages | 33.0% | 17.7% |
| English | 7.9% | 14.6% |
Religion
Laval is predominantly Christian. About 280,720 of its population is Christian (133,695 males and 147,030 females).
The second largest religion in the city is Muslim with 12.9% of the population adhering to the religion. There are also Buddhist and Hindu, both represent 1.4% and 1.0% of the population, while Jewish represent 0.6% of the population.
| Religion | Population |
|---|---|
| Christian | 65.4% |
| Islam | 12.9% |
| Buddhist | 1.4% |
| Hindu | 1.0% |
| Jewish | 0.6% |
| Sikh | 0.5% |
Nearest Cities to Laval
- Terrebonne 12.6 km · 119,944 people
- Montreal 17.2 km · 1,762,949 people
- Longueuil 23.0 km · 254,483 people
- Repentigny 26.1 km · 86,100 people
- Saint-Jerome 28.3 km · 80,213 people
- Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu 50.2 km · 97,873 people
- Saint-Hyacinthe 61.8 km · 57,239 people
- Trois-Rivieres 123.3 km · 139,163 people
Frequently Asked Questions about Laval
According to the 2021 Statistics Canada Census, Laval has a population of 438,366 people, making it the 3rd city in Quebec. The population increased moderately from 422,993 in 2016, an increase of 15,373 people or 3.63%. The city has a population density of 1,781.0 people per km² across a land area of 246.13 km². The 2026 Census results are expected from Statistics Canada beginning February 2027.
Laval's population grew by 3.63% between the 2016 and 2021 censuses — from 422,993 to 438,366 people, a gain of 15,373 residents. This modest growth reflects patterns seen in many other Quebec cities during this period. The median age of 42.80 years suggests a mature, established community. Official 2026 Census data, which will confirm whether this trend continued, is expected from Statistics Canada in February 2027.
Laval has a population density of approximately 1,781.00 people per square kilometre.
Laval covers a land area of approximately 246.13 km².
The median age of the population in Laval is 42.80 years.
The largest ethnic or cultural origin group in Laval is Canadian.
The median household income in Laval is $85,000, based on 2020 data.
French is the most common first official language spoken in Laval.
Christian is the predominant religion in Laval.
According to the 2021 Census, 0.8% of Laval's population identifies with an Indigenous identity.
93.1% of Laval's residents are Canadian citizens, based on 2021 Census data.
One-parent families make up 17.2% of census families in Laval, according to the 2021 Census.
Multigenerational households make up 2.8% of all households in Laval, per the 2021 Census.
60.3% of Laval's population knows both English and French, based on 2021 Census data on knowledge of official languages.
Of the population aged 15 and over in Laval, 34.4% worked full year full time in the 2021 Census reference year.
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.