About St. John’s
Canada boasts a mosaic of dynamic cities, but few are as intriguing as St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. As the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador province, St. John’s stands as a testament to the resilience and innovation of its inhabitants.
Dive into the numbers, and you’ll note that the population of St. John’s, hovering around 110,525 according to the latest census, isn’t just a statistic. It’s a rich conglomeration of diverse individuals, all of whom have stories that mirror the city’s own history of perseverance and evolution. Those who call this place home range from long-time residents, whose ancestry might stretch back for generations, to newcomers who have recognized the city’s potential and have chosen to plant their roots here.
Geographically, the city doesn’t sprawl endlessly across the map. Instead, it has an intentional compactness that encourages community interaction. Streets, some steep enough to challenge the fittest of pedestrians, curve and bend in ways that suggest they were carved with purpose. Indeed, each corner, each alley, each building seems to hold a tale waiting to be discovered.
Economically, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador showcases a blend of industries. From the early days, when the primary industry was fishing, to now, when oil, gas, and technology sectors are making significant inroads, the city has always been adaptive. This adaptability reflects the spirit of its people, always ready to meet the demands of a changing world.
But the core of St. John’s isn’t just in its streets or its businesses. It’s in the shared smiles of its people, the spontaneous gatherings at local establishments, and the sounds of music that can drift through the air on a quiet evening. The locals display an unwavering love for their city, advocating for its growth and celebrating its achievements, big or small.
St. John’s heartbeats can be felt in the laughter of its children, the determination of its youth, and the wisdom of its elders. And as the city continues to evolve, those who have been fortunate enough to experience it know that St. John’s remains, undeniably, a gem in the crown of Canada.
Population Characteristics
According to the latest census, St. John’s has a population of around 110,525 people. The city's population is in increased . Between 2016 and 2021, the population of St. John’s has increased by 1.53%.
| Population in 2016 | Population in 2021 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 108,860 | 110,525 | +1.53% |
2026 Population Projection
Based on the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 0.30% observed between the 2016 and 2021 censuses, St. John’s's population is projected to reach approximately 112,215 people by 2026, with a projected population density of around 251.59 people per km².
| Population in 2021 | Projected Population in 2026 | Projected Density in 2026 (per km²) |
|---|---|---|
| 110,525 | 112,215 | 251.59 |
This projection is an estimate calculated by CAPopulation from the compound annual growth rate between the 2016 and 2021 censuses. It is not an official Statistics Canada figure.
Population By Genders
The male population of St. John’s is around 53,515 while the female population is around 57,010.
Of the 110,525 total population in St. John’s, the largest gender is female with around 57,010 women within the population.
| Male | Female | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 53,515 | 57,010 | +6.13% |
Is St. John’s a Good Place to Live?
Based on 2021 Statistics Canada Census data, here's how St. John’s compares across key quality-of-life indicators — measured against Newfoundland and Labrador, 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 St. John’s
- Mount Pearl (12.7 km)
Population by Age Characteristics
St. John’s has a young population. The majority of the population is people aged 20 to 24 years old, accounting for 7.60% of the total population. The city median age is 42.00.
| Data | Male | Female | Difference | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 to 24 years | 4,390 8.20% | 3,980 7.00% | 9.34% | 8,375 7.60% |
| 25 to 29 years | 4,160 7.80% | 4,045 7.10% | 2.76% | 8,205 7.40% |
| 30 to 34 years | 4,015 7.50% | 4,080 7.20% | 1.59% | 8,090 7.30% |
| 55 to 59 years | 3,700 6.90% | 4,250 7.50% | 12.94% | 7,955 7.20% |
| 35 to 39 years | 3,910 7.30% | 3,805 6.70% | 2.69% | 7,715 7.00% |
| 60 to 64 years | 3,595 6.70% | 4,045 7.10% | 11.12% | 7,635 6.90% |
| 40 to 44 years | 3,515 6.60% | 3,670 6.40% | 4.22% | 7,185 6.50% |
| 50 to 54 years | 3,390 6.30% | 3,730 6.50% | 9.12% | 7,120 6.40% |
| 65 to 69 years | 3,150 5.90% | 3,570 6.30% | 11.76% | 6,725 6.10% |
| 45 to 49 years | 3,200 6.00% | 3,390 5.90% | 5.60% | 6,590 6.00% |
| 70 to 74 years | 2,535 4.70% | 3,200 5.60% | 20.78% | 5,740 5.20% |
| 15 to 19 years | 2,780 5.20% | 2,605 4.60% | 6.29% | 5,385 4.90% |
| 10 to 14 years | 2,670 5.00% | 2,530 4.40% | 5.24% | 5,205 4.70% |
| 5 to 9 years | 2,505 4.70% | 2,415 4.20% | 3.59% | 4,915 4.40% |
| 0 to 4 years | 2,310 4.30% | 2,115 3.70% | 8.44% | 4,425 4.00% |
| 75 to 79 years | 1,795 3.40% | 2,350 4.10% | 23.62% | 4,145 3.80% |
| 80 to 84 years | 1,115 2.10% | 1,585 2.80% | 29.65% | 2,705 2.40% |
| 85 years and over | 765 1.40% | 1,650 2.90% | 53.64% | 2,410 2.20% |
| 85 to 89 years | 525 1.00% | 945 1.70% | 44.44% | 1,475 1.30% |
| 90 to 94 years | 180 0.30% | 515 0.90% | 65.05% | 700 0.60% |
| 95 to 99 years | 50 0.10% | 170 0.30% | 70.59% | 220 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 67.20% of the population. The other age groups, 65 years and over and 0 to 14 years, account for 19.70% and 13.20%, respectively.
If we look at the population data from the broader age groups, we can see that most people in St. John’s are within the 15 to 64 years age group.
| Data | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average age of the population | 41.30% | 44.20% | 42.80% |
| Median age of the population | 40.00% | 44.00% | 42.00% |
| 65 years and over | 17.50% | 21.70% | 19.70% |
| 0 to 14 years | 14.00% | 12.40% | 13.20% |
Photos of Places & Sceneries in St. John’s
Explore St. John’s Through Videos
Population of St. John’s by Ethnicity and Origin
The population of St. John’s is quite diverse, which contributes to the city's vibrant cultural landscape. St. John’s 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 36.57% of the total population, followed by Irish (34.00%), Canadian (18.52%), Scottish (8.45%), and Newfoundlander (5.74%).
Other ethnicities and origins in Newfoundland and Labrador include Caucasian (White), French, British Isles, European, and German.
| Ethnicity and Origin | Male | Female | Percentage in Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | 35.76% | 37.31% | 36.57% |
| Irish | 33.36% | 34.60% | 34.00% |
| Canadian | 18.25% | 18.77% | 18.52% |
| Scottish | 8.28% | 8.60% | 8.45% |
| Newfoundlander | 5.62% | 5.84% | 5.74% |
| Caucasian (White) | 4.76% | 5.14% | 4.96% |
| French | 4.44% | 4.97% | 4.71% |
| British Isles | 3.52% | 3.88% | 3.71% |
| European | 2.12% | 2.00% | 2.05% |
| German | 2.04% | 2.04% | 2.04% |
Immigration Profile
Immigration patterns vary a great deal from one area to another, which makes this data one of the more distinctive parts of St. John’s's population profile.
About 7.0% of St. John’s's population are immigrants (7,510 people).
The top countries of origin for St. John’s's immigrant population are United Kingdom (805), Philippines (625), United States of America (505), India (480), Syria (450).
| Country of Birth | Population |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 805 |
| Philippines | 625 |
| United States of America | 505 |
| India | 480 |
| Syria | 450 |
Household and Dwelling Characteristics
About 20,865 of St. John’s's population live in a single-detached house. In addition, most of them are living in 2 persons household.
Household Size
About 17.90% of the population lives in 2 persons households. 1 person households ranked second, accounting for 16.85% of the population. 3 persons, 4 persons, and 5 or more persons households account for 7.55%, 5.45%, and 2.20%, respectively.
| Number of Person(s) in Household | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 2 persons | 17,655 | 17.90% |
| 1 person | 16,605 | 16.85% |
| 3 persons | 7,465 | 7.55% |
| 4 persons | 5,395 | 5.45% |
| 5 or more persons | 2,175 | 2.20% |
Income in St. John’s
Analyzing income distribution in St. John’s can help us better understand its socioeconomic dynamics.
Per Capita Income
According to 2020 data, the median personal income within St. John’s 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 city's economic performance, spread of income across individuals, quality of life, as well as disparities within its borders.
Most of St. John’s population or around 13,435 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 11,340 and 10,415 people, respectively.
Household Income
The St. John’s's median household income is $75,000, according to 2020 data.
Below national average St. John’s's median household income is 9,000 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 St. John’s
This data sheds light on the distribution of St. John’s 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.
66.75% or most of the St. John’s population has a Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree. 34.95% of the population has a Bachelor's degree or higher, 23.55% has a High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate, and 9.65% has No certificate, diploma or degree.
| Degree | Men | Women | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree | 45,855 | 54,055 | 99,910 | 66.75% |
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 23,805 | 28,365 | 52,165 | 34.95% |
| High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate | 19,090 | 17,800 | 36,885 | 23.55% |
| No certificate, diploma or degree | 7,975 | 7,580 | 15,555 | 9.65% |
Above national average 35.0% of St. John’s's population has a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 32.9% (Canada, 2021 Census).
Employment in St. John’s
This dataset provides a snapshot of employment trends in St. John’s. 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 7.12% which is quite high.
| Status | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Employment rate | 54.57% |
| Unemployment rate | 7.12% |
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 St. John’s's population (around 66.50%) are working permanent position as an employee.
Self-employed
In the city, there are 3,235 men and 2,160 women working as self-employed individuals, bringing the total number to 5,395.
| Status | Men | Women | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-employed | 3,235 | 2,160 | 5,395 |
Employment Industry Sectors
The St. John’s industry employment sector census data offers insights into the region's economic landscape. The distribution of employment in St. John’s is categorized and quantified, which reveals the region's economic composition.
St. John’s 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 12%, followed by Public administration at 11%.
| Industry | Men | Women | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health care and social assistance | 2,195 | 6,705 | 16% |
| Retail trade | 3,410 | 3,720 | 12% |
| Public administration | 2,760 | 3,260 | 11% |
| Educational services | 1,965 | 3,240 | 9% |
| Accommodation and food services | 2,365 | 2,275 | 8% |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 2,730 | 1,880 | 8% |
| Construction | 2,465 | 315 | 5% |
| Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services | 1,475 | 840 | 4% |
| Other services (except public administration) | 940 | 1,255 | 4% |
| Transportation and warehousing | 1,650 | 515 | 4% |
| Finance and insurance | 705 | 880 | 3% |
| Manufacturing | 1,120 | 355 | 3% |
| Arts, entertainment and recreation | 590 | 705 | 2% |
| Information and cultural industries | 670 | 580 | 2% |
| Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction | 945 | 270 | 2% |
| Wholesale trade | 840 | 265 | 2% |
| Real estate and rental and leasing | 425 | 310 | 1% |
| Utilities | 430 | 210 | 1% |
| Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting | 350 | 105 | 1% |
| Management of companies and enterprises | 45 | 40 | 0% |
Labour Market Snapshot
A quick snapshot of where St. John’s residents work — the leading industry sectors employing them, and the broad occupation categories they work in.
Top employer sectors in St. John’s: Health care and social assistance (16%), -45 Retail trade (12%), Public administration (11%)
Top occupation categories in St. John’s: Sales and service occupations (29%), Business, finance and administration occupations (16%), Occupations in education, law and social, community and government services (15%)
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 | 16,600 | 18,515 | 35,120 | 69.20% |
| Worked at home | 4,765 | 5,370 | 10,140 | 20.00% |
| No fixed workplace address | 3,630 | 1,750 | 5,380 | 10.60% |
| Worked outside Canada | 95 | 30 | 125 | 0.20% |
Commuting
The data sheds light on how St. John’s 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 St. John’s residents and sustainable urban planning.
Commuting Duration
This data reveals the average time that the residents of St. John’s 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 | 52.50% |
| 15 to 29 minutes | 38.10% |
| 30 to 44 minutes | 5.70% |
| 60 minutes and over | 2.40% |
| 45 to 59 minutes | 1.20% |
Marital Status
The statistics on marital status in St. John’sshed 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 St. John’s'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 St. John’s. About 106,690 people living in the province speak English, 695 people speak French, 490 people speak Neither English nor French language, and 195 people speak English and French language.
| Language | Population |
|---|---|
| English | 106,690 |
| French | 695 |
| Neither English nor French | 490 |
| English and French | 195 |
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 | 91.2% | 94.6% |
| Non-official languages | 6.7% | 3.8% |
| French | 0.6% | 0.3% |
Religion
St. John’s is predominantly Christian. About 75,965 of its population is Christian (35,200 males and 35,200 females).
The second largest religion in the province is Muslim with 3.0% of the population adhering to the religion. There are also Hindu and Sikh, both represent 0.8% and 0.4% of the population, while Buddhist represent 0.3% of the population.
| Religion | Population |
|---|---|
| Christian | 70.6% |
| Islam | 3.0% |
| Hindu | 0.8% |
| Sikh | 0.4% |
| Buddhist | 0.3% |
| Jewish | 0.2% |
Frequently Asked Questions about St. John’s
According to the 2021 census, St. John’s has a population of approximately 110,525 people.
Between 2016 and 2021, the population of St. John’s increased by 1.53%.
St. John’s has a population density of approximately 247.80 people per square kilometre.
St. John’s covers a land area of approximately 446.02 km².
The median age of the population in St. John’s is 42.00 years.
The largest ethnic or cultural origin group in St. John’s is English.
The median household income in St. John’s is $75,000, based on 2020 data.
English is the most common first official language spoken in St. John’s.
Christian is the predominant religion in St. John’s.