Population Characteristics
According to the latest census, North Saanich has a population of around 12,235 people. The township's population is in increased . Between 2016 and 2021, the population of North Saanich has increased by 8.77%.
| Population in 2016 | Population in 2021 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 11,249 | 12,235 | +8.77% |
2026 Population Projection
Based on the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.69% observed between the 2016 and 2021 censuses, North Saanich's population is projected to reach approximately 13,307 people by 2026, with a projected population density of around 358.10 people per km².
| Population in 2021 | Projected Population in 2026 | Projected Density in 2026 (per km²) |
|---|---|---|
| 12,235 | 13,307 | 358.10 |
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 Saanich is around 5,985 while the female population is around 6,255.
Of the 12,235 total population in North Saanich, the largest gender is female with around 6,255 women within the population.
| Male | Female | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 5,985 | 6,255 | +4.32% |
Is North Saanich a Good Place to Live?
Based on 2021 Statistics Canada Census data, here's how North Saanich 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 Saanich
- Central Saanich (6.9 km)
- Highlands (20.3 km)
- Saanich (22.3 km)
- Esquimalt (25.2 km)
- Oak Bay (27.0 km)
- North Cowichan (28.1 km)
- Metchosin (31.7 km)
- Sooke (37.6 km)
- West Vancouver (77.6 km)
- North Vancouver (78.4 km)
- Lantzville (81.0 km)
- Sechelt (93.8 km)
Population by Age Characteristics
North Saanich has an aging population. The majority of the population is people aged 70 to 74 years old, accounting for 10.50% of the total population. The township median age is 56.80.
| Data | Male | Female | Difference | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 70 to 74 years | 620 10.40% | 660 10.60% | 6.06% | 1,285 10.50% |
| 65 to 69 years | 605 10.10% | 655 10.50% | 7.63% | 1,260 10.30% |
| 60 to 64 years | 570 9.50% | 685 11.00% | 16.79% | 1,250 10.20% |
| 55 to 59 years | 465 7.80% | 545 8.70% | 14.68% | 1,005 8.20% |
| 75 to 79 years | 450 7.50% | 405 6.50% | 10.00% | 855 7.00% |
| 50 to 54 years | 360 6.00% | 425 6.80% | 15.29% | 785 6.40% |
| 45 to 49 years | 265 4.40% | 355 5.70% | 25.35% | 620 5.10% |
| 40 to 44 years | 280 4.70% | 270 4.30% | 3.57% | 555 4.50% |
| 35 to 39 years | 265 4.40% | 280 4.50% | 5.36% | 545 4.50% |
| 15 to 19 years | 275 4.60% | 270 4.30% | 1.82% | 540 4.40% |
| 10 to 14 years | 285 4.80% | 245 3.90% | 14.04% | 530 4.30% |
| 5 to 9 years | 240 4.00% | 230 3.70% | 4.17% | 470 3.80% |
| 20 to 24 years | 235 3.90% | 230 3.70% | 2.13% | 470 3.80% |
| 30 to 34 years | 220 3.70% | 245 3.90% | 10.20% | 455 3.70% |
| 80 to 84 years | 235 3.90% | 220 3.50% | 6.38% | 455 3.70% |
| 0 to 4 years | 200 3.30% | 195 3.10% | 2.50% | 390 3.20% |
| 85 years and over | 215 3.60% | 175 2.80% | 18.60% | 390 3.20% |
| 25 to 29 years | 185 3.10% | 180 2.90% | 2.70% | 370 3.00% |
| 85 to 89 years | 145 2.40% | 110 1.80% | 24.14% | 260 2.10% |
| 90 to 94 years | 55 0.90% | 45 0.70% | 18.18% | 100 0.80% |
| Median age of the population | 57 56.80% | 57 57.20% | 1.75% | 57 56.80% |
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 54.00% of the population. The other age groups, 65 years and over and 0 to 14 years, account for 34.70% and 11.40%, respectively.
If we look at the population data from the broader age groups, we can see that most people in North Saanich are within the 15 to 64 years age group.
| Data | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average age of the population | 50.70% | 51.20% | 51.00% |
| 65 years and over | 35.50% | 33.80% | 34.70% |
| 0 to 14 years | 12.20% | 10.60% | 11.40% |
Photos of Places & Sceneries in North Saanich
Population of North Saanich by Ethnicity and Origin
The population of North Saanich is quite diverse, which contributes to the township's vibrant cultural landscape. North Saanich 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 36.70% of the total population, followed by Scottish (25.71%), Irish (18.61%), Canadian (13.74%), and German (13.65%).
Other ethnicities and origins in Newfoundland and Labrador include British Isles, French, Ukrainian, Dutch, and Welsh.
| Ethnicity and Origin | Male | Female | Percentage in Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | 36.78% | 36.62% | 36.70% |
| Scottish | 26.36% | 25.00% | 25.71% |
| Irish | 18.22% | 18.91% | 18.61% |
| Canadian | 13.60% | 13.94% | 13.74% |
| German | 12.43% | 14.90% | 13.65% |
| British Isles | 10.58% | 9.78% | 10.17% |
| French | 7.30% | 8.41% | 7.87% |
| Ukrainian | 6.55% | 5.77% | 6.15% |
| Dutch | 6.13% | 4.57% | 5.37% |
| Welsh | 3.02% | 4.81% | 4.02% |
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 Saanich's population profile.
About 16.6% of North Saanich's population are immigrants (2,030 people).
The top countries of origin for North Saanich's immigrant population are United Kingdom (830), United States of America (195), Germany (100), Netherlands (100), India (80).
| Country of Birth | Population |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 830 |
| United States of America | 195 |
| Germany | 100 |
| Netherlands | 100 |
| India | 80 |
Household and Dwelling Characteristics
About 3,970 of North Saanich's population live in a single-detached house. In addition, most of them are living in 2 persons household.
Household Size
About 24.25% of the population lives in 2 persons households. 1 person households ranked second, accounting for 9.45% of the population. 3 persons, 4 persons, and 5 or more persons households account for 6.65%, 6.50%, and 3.15%, respectively.
| Number of Person(s) in Household | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 2 persons | 2,430 | 24.25% |
| 1 person | 945 | 9.45% |
| 3 persons | 665 | 6.65% |
| 4 persons | 650 | 6.50% |
| 5 or more persons | 315 | 3.15% |
Income in North Saanich
Analyzing income distribution in North Saanich can help us better understand its socioeconomic dynamics.
Per Capita Income
According to 2020 data, the median personal income within North Saanich is $52,000.
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 Saanich population or around 1,220 people falls in the $10,000 to $29,999 group. The next largest groups are the $50,000 to $79,999, and $100,000 to $149,999 with around 1,205 and 1,115 people, respectively.
Household Income
The North Saanich's median household income is $121,000, according to 2020 data.
Above national average North Saanich's median household income is 37,000 dollars above 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 Saanich
This data sheds light on the distribution of North Saanich 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.
71.90% or most of the North Saanich population has a Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree. 37.25% of the population has a Bachelor's degree or higher, 23.20% has a High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate, and 4.90% has No certificate, diploma or degree.
| Degree | Men | Women | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree | 5,545 | 5,990 | 11,530 | 71.90% |
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 2,565 | 3,450 | 6,015 | 37.25% |
| High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate | 1,815 | 2,085 | 3,900 | 23.20% |
| No certificate, diploma or degree | 455 | 450 | 910 | 4.90% |
Above national average 37.3% of North Saanich's population has a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 32.9% (Canada, 2021 Census).
Employment in North Saanich
This dataset provides a snapshot of employment trends in North Saanich. 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 3.24% which is pretty low.
| Status | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Employment rate | 51.99% |
| Unemployment rate | 3.24% |
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 Saanich's population (around 64.20%) are working permanent position as an employee.
Self-employed
In the township, there are 915 men and 585 women working as self-employed individuals, bringing the total number to 1,495.
| Status | Men | Women | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-employed | 915 | 585 | 1,495 |
Employment Industry Sectors
The North Saanich industry employment sector census data offers insights into the region's economic landscape. The distribution of employment in North Saanich is categorized and quantified, which reveals the region's economic composition.
North Saanich has a wide range of industries. Most of its population (12%) works in the public administration sector. The Professional, scientific and technical services sector comes second at 11%, followed by Health care and social assistance at 11%.
| Industry | Men | Women | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public administration | 330 | 355 | 12% |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 385 | 260 | 11% |
| Health care and social assistance | 115 | 530 | 11% |
| Retail trade | 250 | 320 | 10% |
| Construction | 440 | 50 | 8% |
| Educational services | 170 | 310 | 8% |
| Transportation and warehousing | 280 | 80 | 6% |
| Accommodation and food services | 130 | 220 | 6% |
| Manufacturing | 185 | 70 | 4% |
| Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services | 155 | 100 | 4% |
| Other services (except public administration) | 90 | 130 | 4% |
| Arts, entertainment and recreation | 60 | 140 | 3% |
| Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting | 105 | 75 | 3% |
| Finance and insurance | 85 | 90 | 3% |
| Real estate and rental and leasing | 45 | 80 | 2% |
| Wholesale trade | 70 | 35 | 2% |
| Information and cultural industries | 50 | 35 | 1% |
| Utilities | 45 | 0 | 1% |
| Management of companies and enterprises | 0 | 20 | 0% |
| Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction | 0 | 0 | 0% |
Labour Market Snapshot
A quick snapshot of where North Saanich residents work — the leading industry sectors employing them, and the broad occupation categories they work in.
Top employer sectors in North Saanich: Public administration (12%), Professional, scientific and technical services (11%), Health care and social assistance (11%)
Top occupation categories in North Saanich: Sales and service occupations (22%), Business, finance and administration occupations (18%), Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupations (17%)
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 | 1,600 | 1,715 | 3,315 | 59.10% |
| Worked at home | 800 | 910 | 1,705 | 30.40% |
| No fixed workplace address | 465 | 125 | 590 | 10.50% |
| Worked outside Canada | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.00% |
Commuting
The data sheds light on how North Saanich 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 Saanich residents and sustainable urban planning.
Commuting Duration
This data reveals the average time that the residents of North Saanich 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 | 43.10% |
| 15 to 29 minutes | 28.70% |
| 30 to 44 minutes | 21.50% |
| 45 to 59 minutes | 4.50% |
| 60 minutes and over | 2.20% |
Marital Status
The statistics on marital status in North Saanichshed 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 Saanich'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 Saanich. About 12,055 people living in the province speak English, 125 people speak French, 20 people speak English and French language, and 20 people speak Neither English nor French language.
| Language | Population |
|---|---|
| English | 12,055 |
| French | 125 |
| English and French | 20 |
| Neither English nor 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 | 89.4% | 97.2% |
| Non-official languages | 8.3% | 2.0% |
| French | 1.1% | 0.2% |
Religion
North Saanich is predominantly Christian. About 4,905 of its population is Christian (2,235 males and 2,235 females).
The second largest religion in the province is Sikh with 1.2% of the population adhering to the religion. There are also Buddhist and Jewish, both represent 0.8% and 0.2% of the population, while Hindu represent 0.0% of the population.
| Religion | Population |
|---|---|
| Christian | 40.2% |
| Sikh | 1.2% |
| Buddhist | 0.8% |
| Jewish | 0.2% |
| Hindu | 0.0% |
| Islam | 0.0% |
Points of Interest in North Saanich
Schools
Parks
- Swiftsure Park
- H.M.S. Plumper Park
- Quarry Park
- Coles Bay Regional Park
- Wain Park
- Denham Till Park
- Balsam Park
- North Saanich Free Ride Park
- R.O. Bull Park
- Bluebell Park
- Eugene Bailin Memorial Trail Park
- Eugene Bailin Memorial Trail Park
- Green Park
- Green Park
- Gulf View Park
- Highview Park North
- Highview Park South
- Kanishay Park
- Pachena Park
- Patricia Bay Park
- Prentice Pond Park
- Quatsino Park
- Queen Mary Bay Park
- Readings Park
- Sumac Park
- Sycamore Park
- Tsehum Lagoon Park
- Woodcreek Park
- Beaver Park
- Bevan Park
- Maryland Park
- Rotary Park
- Beacon Park
- Eastview Park
- Oceanspray Park
- Tulista Park
- Community Wellness Park
- Ashby Park
- Boulder Park
- Greenglade Park
- Frost Avenue Park
Libraries
Community Centres
Places to Visit in North Saanich
Museums
- Sidney Museum and Archives
- Main Hangar
- Restoration Hangar
- Henderson Hangar
- British Columbia Aviation Museum
Attractions
Historic Sites
Green Spaces in North Saanich
| Name | Type | Approx. Area |
|---|---|---|
| Swiftsure Park | Parks | 0.1 ha |
| H.M.S. Plumper Park | Parks | 0.3 ha |
| Quarry Park | Parks | 2.1 ha |
| Coles Bay Regional Park | Parks | 3.8 ha |
| Wain Park | Parks | 3.2 ha |
| Denham Till Park | Parks | 2.9 ha |
| Balsam Park | Parks | 0.7 ha |
| North Saanich Free Ride Park | Parks | 0.9 ha |
| R.O. Bull Park | Parks | 0.7 ha |
| Bluebell Park | Parks | 1.4 ha |
| Eugene Bailin Memorial Trail Park | Parks | 3.2 ha |
| Eugene Bailin Memorial Trail Park | Parks | 0.1 ha |
| Green Park | Parks | 1.1 ha |
| Green Park | Parks | 2.8 ha |
| Gulf View Park | Parks | 1.0 ha |
| Highview Park North | Parks | 0.1 ha |
| Highview Park South | Parks | 0.1 ha |
| Kanishay Park | Parks | 2.6 ha |
| Pachena Park | Parks | 0.0 ha |
| Patricia Bay Park | Parks | 0.6 ha |
| Prentice Pond Park | Parks | 0.6 ha |
| Quatsino Park | Parks | 0.4 ha |
| Queen Mary Bay Park | Parks | 0.1 ha |
| Readings Park | Parks | 1.2 ha |
| Sumac Park | Parks | 3.6 ha |
Areas are approximate, calculated from OpenStreetMap boundary data.
Frequently Asked Questions about North Saanich
According to the 2021 census, North Saanich has a population of approximately 12,235 people.
Between 2016 and 2021, the population of North Saanich increased by 8.77%.
North Saanich has a population density of approximately 329.20 people per square kilometre.
North Saanich covers a land area of approximately 37.16 km².
The median age of the population in North Saanich is 56.80 years.
The largest ethnic or cultural origin group in North Saanich is English.
The median household income in North Saanich is $121,000, based on 2020 data.
English is the most common first official language spoken in North Saanich.
Christian is the predominant religion in North Saanich.
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.