Population Characteristics
According to the latest census, North Cowichan has a population of around 31,990 people. The township's population is in increased . Between 2016 and 2021, the population of North Cowichan has increased by 7.72%.
| Population in 2016 | Population in 2021 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 29,696 | 31,990 | +7.72% |
2026 Population Projection
Based on the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.50% observed between the 2016 and 2021 censuses, North Cowichan's population is projected to reach approximately 34,461 people by 2026, with a projected population density of around 176.35 people per km².
| Population in 2021 | Projected Population in 2026 | Projected Density in 2026 (per km²) |
|---|---|---|
| 31,990 | 34,461 | 176.35 |
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.
Population By Genders
The male population of North Cowichan is around 15,465 while the female population is around 16,530.
Of the 31,990 total population in North Cowichan, the largest gender is female with around 16,530 women within the population.
| Male | Female | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 15,465 | 16,530 | +6.44% |
Is North Cowichan a Good Place to Live?
Based on 2021 Statistics Canada Census data, here's how North Cowichan compares across key quality-of-life indicators — measured against British Columbia, 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.
Other Townships Near North Cowichan
- North Saanich (28.1 km)
- Central Saanich (33.7 km)
- Highlands (41.1 km)
- Saanich (47.8 km)
- Sooke (49.2 km)
- Esquimalt (49.3 km)
- Metchosin (51.3 km)
- Oak Bay (53.3 km)
- Lantzville (54.0 km)
- West Vancouver (69.5 km)
- Sechelt (72.1 km)
- North Vancouver (72.5 km)
Population by Age Characteristics
North Cowichan has an aging population. The majority of the population is people aged 65 to 69 years old, accounting for 9.00% of the total population. The township median age is 51.20.
| Data | Male | Female | Difference | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 65 to 69 years | 1,360 8.80% | 1,505 9.10% | 9.63% | 2,865 9.00% |
| 60 to 64 years | 1,325 8.60% | 1,490 9.00% | 11.07% | 2,815 8.80% |
| 70 to 74 years | 1,265 8.20% | 1,355 8.20% | 6.64% | 2,620 8.20% |
| 55 to 59 years | 1,150 7.40% | 1,340 8.10% | 14.18% | 2,490 7.80% |
| 50 to 54 years | 925 6.00% | 1,055 6.40% | 12.32% | 1,980 6.20% |
| 35 to 39 years | 815 5.30% | 965 5.80% | 15.54% | 1,780 5.60% |
| 40 to 44 years | 855 5.50% | 890 5.40% | 3.93% | 1,745 5.50% |
| 45 to 49 years | 840 5.40% | 895 5.40% | 6.15% | 1,730 5.40% |
| 75 to 79 years | 810 5.20% | 910 5.50% | 10.99% | 1,720 5.40% |
| 30 to 34 years | 820 5.30% | 830 5.00% | 1.20% | 1,645 5.10% |
| 10 to 14 years | 800 5.20% | 845 5.10% | 5.33% | 1,640 5.10% |
| 15 to 19 years | 785 5.10% | 755 4.60% | 3.82% | 1,545 4.80% |
| 5 to 9 years | 780 5.00% | 755 4.60% | 3.21% | 1,535 4.80% |
| 25 to 29 years | 665 4.30% | 660 4.00% | 0.75% | 1,330 4.20% |
| 20 to 24 years | 690 4.50% | 620 3.80% | 10.14% | 1,305 4.10% |
| 0 to 4 years | 655 4.20% | 620 3.80% | 5.34% | 1,275 4.00% |
| 80 to 84 years | 540 3.50% | 540 3.30% | 0.00% | 1,080 3.40% |
| 85 years and over | 395 2.60% | 490 3.00% | 19.39% | 890 2.80% |
| 85 to 89 years | 275 1.80% | 300 1.80% | 8.33% | 570 1.80% |
| 90 to 94 years | 100 0.60% | 140 0.80% | 28.57% | 235 0.70% |
| 95 to 99 years | 25 0.20% | 45 0.30% | 44.44% | 65 0.20% |
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 57.40% of the population. The other age groups, 65 years and over and 0 to 14 years, account for 28.70% and 13.90%, respectively.
If we look at the population data from the broader age groups, we can see that most people in North Cowichan are within the 15 to 64 years age group.
| Data | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age of the population | 50.00% | 52.00% | 51.20% |
| Average age of the population | 46.60% | 47.90% | 47.30% |
| 65 years and over | 28.20% | 29.10% | 28.70% |
| 0 to 14 years | 14.50% | 13.40% | 13.90% |
Photos of Places & Sceneries in North Cowichan
Population of North Cowichan by Ethnicity and Origin
The population of North Cowichan is quite diverse, which contributes to the township's vibrant cultural landscape. North Cowichan is inclusive and accepts various ethnic groups with open arms. Furthermore, the province appreciates the unique contributions that each ethnicity brings.
The top 5 ethnicities and origins in the province are English, which accounts for 33.60% of the total population, followed by Scottish (24.73%), Irish (17.44%), Canadian (13.02%), and German (13.00%).
Other ethnicities and origins in Newfoundland and Labrador include French, British Isles, Dutch, Ukrainian, and Norwegian.
| Ethnicity and Origin | Male | Female | Percentage in Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | 32.71% | 34.41% | 33.60% |
| Scottish | 24.35% | 25.08% | 24.73% |
| Irish | 16.02% | 18.75% | 17.44% |
| Canadian | 13.21% | 12.80% | 13.02% |
| German | 12.82% | 13.20% | 13.00% |
| French | 7.70% | 8.66% | 8.21% |
| British Isles | 5.88% | 6.23% | 6.08% |
| Dutch | 5.65% | 6.26% | 5.97% |
| Ukrainian | 4.53% | 4.17% | 4.34% |
| Norwegian | 3.20% | 4.67% | 3.98% |
Immigration Profile
Immigration patterns vary a great deal from one area to another, which makes this data one of the more distinctive parts of North Cowichan's population profile.
About 14.2% of North Cowichan's population are immigrants (4,465 people).
The top countries of origin for North Cowichan's immigrant population are United Kingdom (1,415), United States of America (465), India (320), Philippines (315), Germany (260).
| Country of Birth | Population |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 1,415 |
| United States of America | 465 |
| India | 320 |
| Philippines | 315 |
| Germany | 260 |
Household and Dwelling Characteristics
About 8,590 of North Cowichan's population live in a single-detached house. In addition, most of them are living in 2 persons household.
Household Size
About 20.65% of the population lives in 2 persons households. 1 person households ranked second, accounting for 14.15% of the population. 3 persons, 4 persons, and 5 or more persons households account for 6.85%, 5.20%, and 3.15%, respectively.
| Number of Person(s) in Household | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 2 persons | 5,680 | 20.65% |
| 1 person | 3,895 | 14.15% |
| 3 persons | 1,885 | 6.85% |
| 4 persons | 1,425 | 5.20% |
| 5 or more persons | 860 | 3.15% |
Income in North Cowichan
Analyzing income distribution in North Cowichan can help us better understand its socioeconomic dynamics.
Per Capita Income
According to 2020 data, the median personal income within North Cowichan is $40,000.
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 North Cowichan population or around 3,740 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 3,225 and 3,220 people, respectively.
Household Income
The North Cowichan's median household income is $78,500, according to 2020 data.
Below national average North Cowichan's median household income is 5,500 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 North Cowichan
This data sheds light on the distribution of North Cowichan 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.
55.35% or most of the North Cowichan population has a Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree. 31.40% of the population has a High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate, 18.95% has a Bachelor's degree or higher, and 13.20% has No certificate, diploma or degree.
| Degree | Men | Women | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree | 10,770 | 12,240 | 23,005 | 55.35% |
| High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate | 6,260 | 7,110 | 13,375 | 31.40% |
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 3,225 | 4,645 | 7,860 | 18.95% |
| No certificate, diploma or degree | 3,160 | 2,685 | 5,840 | 13.20% |
Below national average 19.0% of North Cowichan's population has a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 32.9% (Canada, 2021 Census).
Employment in North Cowichan
This dataset provides a snapshot of employment trends in North Cowichan. It encompasses a wide range of sectors, industries, as well as job categories.
The data shows that the unemployment rate in Newfoundland and Labrador is at 3.94% which is pretty low.
| Status | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Employment rate | 51.93% |
| Unemployment rate | 3.94% |
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 North Cowichan's population (around 67.20%) are working permanent position as an employee.
Self-employed
In the township, there are 1,670 men and 1,205 women working as self-employed individuals, bringing the total number to 2,875.
| Status | Men | Women | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-employed | 1,670 | 1,205 | 2,875 |
Employment Industry Sectors
The North Cowichan industry employment sector census data offers insights into the region's economic landscape. The distribution of employment in North Cowichan is categorized and quantified, which reveals the region's economic composition.
North Cowichan has a wide range of industries. Most of its population (15%) works in the health care and social assistance sector. The Retail trade sector comes second at 14%, followed by Construction at 10%.
| Industry | Men | Women | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health care and social assistance | 415 | 1,790 | 15% |
| Retail trade | 995 | 1,050 | 14% |
| Construction | 1,360 | 210 | 10% |
| Educational services | 300 | 830 | 8% |
| Accommodation and food services | 440 | 675 | 7% |
| Manufacturing | 895 | 180 | 7% |
| Public administration | 410 | 485 | 6% |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 395 | 420 | 5% |
| Other services (except public administration) | 310 | 385 | 5% |
| Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting | 510 | 165 | 5% |
| Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services | 330 | 315 | 4% |
| Transportation and warehousing | 385 | 105 | 3% |
| Arts, entertainment and recreation | 190 | 185 | 3% |
| Finance and insurance | 130 | 215 | 2% |
| Wholesale trade | 175 | 55 | 2% |
| Real estate and rental and leasing | 150 | 85 | 2% |
| Information and cultural industries | 115 | 90 | 1% |
| Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction | 85 | 0 | 1% |
| Utilities | 30 | 0 | 0% |
| Management of companies and enterprises | 10 | 0 | 0% |
Labour Market Snapshot
A quick snapshot of where North Cowichan residents work — the leading industry sectors employing them, and the broad occupation categories they work in.
Top employer sectors in North Cowichan: Health care and social assistance (15%), -45 Retail trade (14%), Construction (10%)
Top occupation categories in North Cowichan: Sales and service occupations (27%), Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupations (20%), Occupations in education, law and social, community and government services (13%)
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 | 4,565 | 4,945 | 9,510 | 67.80% |
| No fixed workplace address | 1,670 | 625 | 2,290 | 16.30% |
| Worked at home | 940 | 1,265 | 2,200 | 15.70% |
| Worked outside Canada | 20 | 0 | 25 | 0.20% |
Commuting
The data sheds light on how North Cowichan 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 North Cowichan residents and sustainable urban planning.
Commuting Duration
This data reveals the average time that the residents of North Cowichan 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 | 44.70% |
| 15 to 29 minutes | 32.60% |
| 30 to 44 minutes | 10.20% |
| 60 minutes and over | 7.30% |
| 45 to 59 minutes | 5.20% |
Marital Status
The statistics on marital status in North Cowichanshed 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 North Cowichan'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 North Cowichan. About 31,320 people living in the province speak English, 300 people speak French, 115 people speak Neither English nor French language, and 20 people speak English and French language.
| Language | Population |
|---|---|
| English | 31,320 |
| French | 300 |
| Neither English nor French | 115 |
| English and French | 20 |
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 | 89.8% | 96.1% |
| Non-official languages | 7.6% | 2.8% |
| French | 1.0% | 0.2% |
Religion
North Cowichan is predominantly Christian. About 11,885 of its population is Christian (5,245 males and 5,245 females).
The second largest religion in the province is Sikh with 1.2% of the population adhering to the religion. There are also Muslim and Hindu, both represent 0.5% and 0.5% of the population, while Buddhist represent 0.4% of the population.
| Religion | Population |
|---|---|
| Christian | 37.8% |
| Sikh | 1.2% |
| Islam | 0.5% |
| Hindu | 0.5% |
| Buddhist | 0.4% |
| Jewish | 0.2% |
Points of Interest in North Cowichan
Hospitals
Schools
- Queen Margaret's
- Alexander Elementary School
- Quamichan Middle School
- Queen of Angels
- Duncan Christian School
- Chemainus Elementary Community School
- Chemainus Secondary School
Universities
Parks
- Miller Road Rest Area
- Askew Creek Park
- Cowichan Sportsplex Community Park
- Maple Grove Park
- Idol Island
- Burial Islet Park
- Cowichan River Access
- Caswell Park
- Mum's Park
- Boys Road Pullout
- Granite Road Park
- Duck Creek Park
- Gladys Pringle Linear Park
- Highbridge Village Park (Channel Ridge)
- Sir Echoes Linear Park
- Chaster Road Trail
- Maplewood Park
- Coronation Hill Park
- Carmel Drive Park
- Averill Creek Park
- Fairview Park
- Alan Wilson Park
- Quailview Connector Park
- Moorfield Park
- Hawkes Park
- Sherman Road Soccer Park
- Marsh Road Park
- Rockridge Park
- Keystone Park
- Heritage Park
- Maple Bay Beach
- Herd Road Park
- Lakeview Park
- Abbey Park
- Properties Park
- Sterling Ridge Park
- Swan's Nest Park
- Timbercrest Park
- Larkspur Drive Park
- Somenos Marsh Open Air Classroom
Libraries
Community Centres
Places to Visit in North Cowichan
Museums
- Chemainus Valley Museum
- Quw'utsun' Cultural and Conference Centre
- BC Forest Discovery Centre
- Cowichan Valley Museum
- Crofton Old School Museum
- Hand of Man Museum
Attractions
Historic Sites
- Tzouhalem Cross
- Mount Prevost War Memorial
- H.R. MacMillan
- Bloedel, Stewart & Welch No. 1
- Canadian National Caboose 79124
- MacMillan Bloedel No. 1044
- BC Forest Products Log Car
- Millstream Court
Theatres
Green Spaces in North Cowichan
| Name | Type | Approx. Area |
|---|---|---|
| Miller Road Rest Area | Parks | 0.3 ha |
| Askew Creek Park | Parks | 3.3 ha |
| Cowichan Sportsplex Community Park | Parks | 11.2 ha |
| Maple Grove Park | Parks | 1.7 ha |
| Idol Island | Parks | 0.5 ha |
| Burial Islet Park | Parks | 0.1 ha |
| Cowichan River Access | Parks | 0.1 ha |
| Caswell Park | Parks | 0.1 ha |
| Mum's Park | Parks | 1.2 ha |
| Boys Road Pullout | Parks | 0.1 ha |
| Granite Road Park | Parks | 0.2 ha |
| Duck Creek Park | Parks | 13.1 ha |
| Gladys Pringle Linear Park | Parks | 0.7 ha |
| Highbridge Village Park (Channel Ridge) | Parks | 2.1 ha |
| Sir Echoes Linear Park | Parks | 0.1 ha |
| Busy Place Creek Park | Nature Reserves | 1.0 ha |
| Bader's Beach Ravine Park Reserve | Nature Reserves | 1.7 ha |
| Cormorant Crescent Park Reserve | Nature Reserves | 0.4 ha |
| Desiree Drive Park Reserve | Nature Reserves | 0.1 ha |
| McFadden Creek Nature Sanctuary | Nature Reserves | 5.1 ha |
| North View Nature Reserve | Nature Reserves | 7.2 ha |
Areas are approximate, calculated from OpenStreetMap boundary data.
Frequently Asked Questions about North Cowichan
According to the 2021 census, North Cowichan has a population of approximately 31,990 people.
Between 2016 and 2021, the population of North Cowichan increased by 7.72%.
North Cowichan has a population density of approximately 163.70 people per square kilometre.
North Cowichan covers a land area of approximately 195.41 km².
The median age of the population in North Cowichan is 51.20 years.
The largest ethnic or cultural origin group in North Cowichan is English.
The median household income in North Cowichan is $78,500, based on 2020 data.
English is the most common first official language spoken in North Cowichan.
Christian is the predominant religion in North Cowichan.
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.