Population Characteristics
According to the latest census, Saint John has a population of around 69,895 people. The city's population is in increased . Between 2016 and 2021, the population of Saint John has increased by 3.43%.
| Population in 2016 | Population in 2021 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 67,575 | 69,895 | +3.43% |
2026 Population Projection
Based on the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 0.68% observed between the 2016 and 2021 censuses, Saint John's population is projected to reach approximately 72,295 people by 2026, with a projected population density of around 229.08 people per km².
| Population in 2021 | Projected Population in 2026 | Projected Density in 2026 (per km²) |
|---|---|---|
| 69,895 | 72,295 | 229.08 |
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 Saint John is around 33,835 while the female population is around 36,060.
Of the 69,895 total population in Saint John, the largest gender is female with around 36,060 women within the population.
| Male | Female | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 33,835 | 36,060 | +6.17% |
Is Saint John a Good Place to Live?
Based on 2021 Statistics Canada Census data, here's how Saint John compares across key quality-of-life indicators — measured against New Brunswick, 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 Cities Near Saint John
- Fredericton (87.1 km)
Population by Age Characteristics
Saint John has an aging population. The majority of the population is people aged 55 to 59 years old, accounting for 8.00% of the total population. The city median age is 44.00.
| Data | Male | Female | Difference | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 55 to 59 years | 2,760 8.20% | 2,870 8.00% | 3.83% | 5,625 8.00% |
| 60 to 64 years | 2,545 7.50% | 2,875 8.00% | 11.48% | 5,420 7.80% |
| 25 to 29 years | 2,500 7.40% | 2,460 6.80% | 1.60% | 4,955 7.10% |
| 65 to 69 years | 2,155 6.40% | 2,455 6.80% | 12.22% | 4,610 6.60% |
| 30 to 34 years | 2,220 6.60% | 2,260 6.30% | 1.77% | 4,480 6.40% |
| 50 to 54 years | 2,075 6.10% | 2,335 6.50% | 11.13% | 4,415 6.30% |
| 20 to 24 years | 2,270 6.70% | 2,070 5.70% | 8.81% | 4,340 6.20% |
| 45 to 49 years | 2,080 6.10% | 2,215 6.10% | 6.09% | 4,295 6.10% |
| 35 to 39 years | 2,110 6.20% | 2,180 6.00% | 3.21% | 4,290 6.10% |
| 40 to 44 years | 2,000 5.90% | 2,145 5.90% | 6.76% | 4,145 5.90% |
| 70 to 74 years | 1,790 5.30% | 2,070 5.70% | 13.53% | 3,860 5.50% |
| 10 to 14 years | 1,925 5.70% | 1,745 4.80% | 9.35% | 3,670 5.30% |
| 5 to 9 years | 1,730 5.10% | 1,740 4.80% | 0.57% | 3,475 5.00% |
| 15 to 19 years | 1,765 5.20% | 1,625 4.50% | 7.93% | 3,390 4.90% |
| 0 to 4 years | 1,565 4.60% | 1,480 4.10% | 5.43% | 3,045 4.40% |
| 75 to 79 years | 1,115 3.30% | 1,400 3.90% | 20.36% | 2,520 3.60% |
| 80 to 84 years | 680 2.00% | 1,015 2.80% | 33.00% | 1,695 2.40% |
| 85 years and over | 545 1.60% | 1,125 3.10% | 51.56% | 1,670 2.40% |
| 85 to 89 years | 375 1.10% | 655 1.80% | 42.75% | 1,030 1.50% |
| 90 to 94 years | 130 0.40% | 325 0.90% | 60.00% | 455 0.70% |
| 95 to 99 years | 35 0.10% | 115 0.30% | 69.57% | 150 0.20% |
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 64.90% of the population. The other age groups, 65 years and over and 0 to 14 years, account for 20.50% and 14.60%, respectively.
If we look at the population data from the broader age groups, we can see that most people in Saint John are within the 15 to 64 years age group.
| Data | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age of the population | 42.00% | 45.60% | 44.00% |
| Average age of the population | 42.00% | 44.60% | 43.30% |
| 65 years and over | 18.60% | 22.40% | 20.50% |
| 0 to 14 years | 15.40% | 13.80% | 14.60% |
Photos of Places & Sceneries in Saint John
Explore Saint John Through Videos
Population of Saint John by Ethnicity and Origin
The population of Saint John is quite diverse, which contributes to the city's vibrant cultural landscape. Saint John 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 Irish, which accounts for 29.50% of the total population, followed by English (24.09%), Scottish (21.52%), Canadian (19.19%), and French (16.67%).
Other ethnicities and origins in Newfoundland and Labrador include Caucasian (White), German, Acadian, New Brunswicker, and British Isles.
| Ethnicity and Origin | Male | Female | Percentage in Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| Irish | 27.42% | 31.45% | 29.50% |
| English | 23.17% | 24.96% | 24.09% |
| Scottish | 21.02% | 21.98% | 21.52% |
| Canadian | 19.46% | 18.94% | 19.19% |
| French | 16.03% | 17.27% | 16.67% |
| Caucasian (White) | 5.29% | 4.99% | 5.13% |
| German | 4.56% | 5.08% | 4.83% |
| Acadian | 4.00% | 4.44% | 4.23% |
| New Brunswicker | 2.37% | 2.68% | 2.53% |
| British Isles | 2.32% | 2.45% | 2.39% |
Immigration Profile
Immigration patterns vary a great deal from one area to another, which makes this data one of the more distinctive parts of Saint John's population profile.
About 8.1% of Saint John's population are immigrants (5,535 people).
The top countries of origin for Saint John's immigrant population are Syria (725), United Kingdom (600), Philippines (440), China (435), India (385).
| Country of Birth | Population |
|---|---|
| Syria | 725 |
| United Kingdom | 600 |
| Philippines | 440 |
| China | 435 |
| India | 385 |
Household and Dwelling Characteristics
About 12,750 of Saint John's population live in a single-detached house. In addition, most of them are living in 1 person household.
Household Size
About 17.95% of the population lives in 1 person households. 2 persons households ranked second, accounting for 17.85% of the population. 3 persons, 4 persons, and 5 or more persons households account for 7.15%, 4.60%, and 2.45%, respectively.
| Number of Person(s) in Household | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | 11,440 | 17.95% |
| 2 persons | 11,350 | 17.85% |
| 3 persons | 4,540 | 7.15% |
| 4 persons | 2,925 | 4.60% |
| 5 or more persons | 1,575 | 2.45% |
Income in Saint John
Analyzing income distribution in Saint John can help us better understand its socioeconomic dynamics.
Per Capita Income
According to 2020 data, the median personal income within Saint John is $36,800.
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 Saint John population or around 9,480 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 9,145 and 6,890 people, respectively.
Household Income
The Saint John's median household income is $62,800, according to 2020 data.
Below national average Saint John's median household income is 21,200 dollars below 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 Saint John
This data sheds light on the distribution of Saint John 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.
53.85% or most of the Saint John population has a Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree. 33.25% of the population has a High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate, 21.50% has a Bachelor's degree or higher, and 12.90% has No certificate, diploma or degree.
| Degree | Men | Women | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree | 23,550 | 26,710 | 50,260 | 53.85% |
| High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate | 15,275 | 16,505 | 31,775 | 33.25% |
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 8,825 | 11,120 | 19,945 | 21.50% |
| No certificate, diploma or degree | 6,625 | 6,345 | 12,965 | 12.90% |
Below national average 21.5% of Saint John's population has a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 32.9% (Canada, 2021 Census).
Employment in Saint John
This dataset provides a snapshot of employment trends in Saint John. 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 6.63% which is quite high.
| Status | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Employment rate | 54.07% |
| Unemployment rate | 6.63% |
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 Saint John's population (around 74.70%) are working permanent position as an employee.
Self-employed
In the city, there are 1,530 men and 1,080 women working as self-employed individuals, bringing the total number to 2,605.
| Status | Men | Women | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-employed | 1,530 | 1,080 | 2,605 |
Employment Industry Sectors
The Saint John industry employment sector census data offers insights into the region's economic landscape. The distribution of employment in Saint John is categorized and quantified, which reveals the region's economic composition.
Saint John has a wide range of industries. Most of its population (16%) works in the health care and social assistance sector. The Retail trade sector comes second at 14%, followed by Accommodation and food services at 7%.
| Industry | Men | Women | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health care and social assistance | 1,110 | 4,610 | 16% |
| Retail trade | 2,175 | 2,695 | 14% |
| Accommodation and food services | 1,100 | 1,460 | 7% |
| Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services | 1,340 | 1,160 | 7% |
| Construction | 2,005 | 275 | 7% |
| Educational services | 685 | 1,515 | 6% |
| Manufacturing | 1,625 | 500 | 6% |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 1,230 | 875 | 6% |
| Public administration | 965 | 880 | 5% |
| Transportation and warehousing | 1,305 | 410 | 5% |
| Other services (except public administration) | 685 | 710 | 4% |
| Finance and insurance | 500 | 705 | 3% |
| Wholesale trade | 560 | 395 | 3% |
| Information and cultural industries | 510 | 270 | 2% |
| Utilities | 450 | 95 | 2% |
| Arts, entertainment and recreation | 275 | 210 | 1% |
| Real estate and rental and leasing | 305 | 130 | 1% |
| Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting | 250 | 85 | 1% |
| Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction | 85 | 65 | 0% |
| Management of companies and enterprises | 15 | 25 | 0% |
Labour Market Snapshot
A quick snapshot of where Saint John residents work — the leading industry sectors employing them, and the broad occupation categories they work in.
Top employer sectors in Saint John: Health care and social assistance (16%), -45 Retail trade (14%), Accommodation and food services (7%)
Top occupation categories in Saint John: Sales and service occupations (32%), Business, finance and administration occupations (16%), 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 | 10,430 | 11,735 | 22,165 | 70.60% |
| Worked at home | 2,500 | 3,005 | 5,505 | 17.50% |
| No fixed workplace address | 2,610 | 1,075 | 3,685 | 11.70% |
| Worked outside Canada | 10 | 10 | 25 | 0.10% |
Commuting
The data sheds light on how Saint John 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 Saint John residents and sustainable urban planning.
Commuting Duration
This data reveals the average time that the residents of Saint John 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 |
|---|---|
| Less than 15 minutes | 51.40% |
| 15 to 29 minutes | 37.60% |
| 30 to 44 minutes | 6.80% |
| 45 to 59 minutes | 2.20% |
| 60 minutes and over | 2.00% |
Marital Status
The statistics on marital status in Saint Johnshed 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 Saint John'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.
English is the most spoken official language in Saint John. About 65,790 people living in the province speak English, 2,380 people speak French, 370 people speak Neither English nor French language, and 300 people speak English and French language.
| Language | Population |
|---|---|
| English | 65,790 |
| French | 2,380 |
| Neither English nor French | 370 |
| English and French | 300 |
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 | 87.2% | 92.6% |
| Non-official languages | 7.0% | 4.6% |
| French | 3.7% | 1.2% |
Religion
Saint John is predominantly Christian. About 39,890 of its population is Christian (17,860 males and 17,860 females).
The second largest religion in the province is Muslim with 3.1% of the population adhering to the religion. There are also Hindu and Sikh, both represent 1.0% and 0.3% of the population, while Jewish represent 0.2% of the population.
| Religion | Population |
|---|---|
| Christian | 58.5% |
| Islam | 3.1% |
| Hindu | 1.0% |
| Sikh | 0.3% |
| Jewish | 0.2% |
| Buddhist | 0.2% |
Points of Interest in Saint John
Hospitals
Schools
- River Valley Middle School
- Eastern Colledge
- Saint Francis School
- Westfield Elementary School
- Champlain Heights School
- Bayview School
- Bayside Middle School
- Princess Elizabeth School
- Prince Charles School
- Centre Scolaire Samuel-de-Champlain
- Millidgeville North School
- M. Gerald Teed Memorial School
- Seawood School
- Rothesay Netherwood School
- Lakewood Heights School
- Saint Malachy's Memorial High School
- Divine Mercy Catholic School
- Saint John High School
Universities
Parks
- Queen Square
- Chown Field
- Simonds Lions Bicentennial Park
- Champlain Heights South Park
- Fort Howe
- Ross Memorial Park
- Loyalist Burial Ground
- Wellesley Avenue Park
- Wolastoq Park
- Seaside Park
- Dominion Park
- Little Reservoir Park
- Public Gardens
- Hertitage Trail
Libraries
- Saint John Free Public Library
- Saint John Free Public Library
- West Branch Library
- Saint John Free Public Library
- Ward Chipman Library
Community Centres
- South End Community Centre
- Nick Nicolle Community Center
- Lorneville Community Centre
- KBM Community Centre
- Christian Education Centre
- Crescent Valley Resource Centre
- Grand Bay-Westfield Community Centrum
- North End Centre
- Latimore Lake Community Centre
- Carleton Community Centre
- Joshua Group
- Milford Memorial Community Centre
- Denis Morris Community Centre
- Martinon Community Centre
Places to Visit in Saint John
Museums
- New Brunswick Museum
- Frank & Ella Hatheway Labour Exhibit
- Carleton Martello Tower National Historic Site
- Loyalist House
- New Brunswick Museum
- Old No. 2 Engine House Museum
Attractions
Historic Sites
- Fort Boishébert Historic Site
- Samuel de Champlain
- Tilley Memorial
- Lest We Forget
- Founding of New Brunswick
- Charles L. Gorman Monument
- Saint John Firefighters
- Mispec Battery
- Anchor
- Port of Saint John Memorial
- K. C. Irving
- Day of Mourning Monument
- Memory Vessel
- Fort Howe
Stadiums
Theatres
Green Spaces in Saint John
| Name | Type | Approx. Area |
|---|---|---|
| Queen Square | Parks | 1.4 ha |
| Chown Field | Parks | 1.5 ha |
| Simonds Lions Bicentennial Park | Parks | 1.1 ha |
| Champlain Heights South Park | Parks | 0.3 ha |
| Fort Howe | Parks | 4.9 ha |
| Ross Memorial Park | Parks | 1.9 ha |
| Loyalist Burial Ground | Parks | 1.3 ha |
| Wellesley Avenue Park | Parks | 0.7 ha |
| Wolastoq Park | Parks | 7.8 ha |
| Seaside Park | Parks | 6.4 ha |
| Dominion Park | Parks | 2.9 ha |
| Little Reservoir Park | Parks | 3.8 ha |
| Public Gardens | Parks | 1.8 ha |
| Hertitage Trail | Parks | 0.8 ha |
| Harbor Passage | Parks | 6.0 ha |
| Unity Park | Parks | 0.5 ha |
| Brundage Point Park | Parks | 0.8 ha |
Areas are approximate, calculated from OpenStreetMap boundary data.
Frequently Asked Questions about Saint John
According to the 2021 census, Saint John has a population of approximately 69,895 people.
Between 2016 and 2021, the population of Saint John increased by 3.43%.
Saint John has a population density of approximately 221.50 people per square kilometre.
Saint John covers a land area of approximately 315.59 km².
The median age of the population in Saint John is 44.00 years.
The largest ethnic or cultural origin group in Saint John is Irish.
The median household income in Saint John is $62,800, based on 2020 data.
English is the most common first official language spoken in Saint John.
Christian is the predominant religion in Saint John.
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.