About Dryden
When you look at the vast expanse of Canada’s geography, it’s easy to overlook the smaller pockets of significance that contribute to the country’s unique character. One such pocket is Dryden, a city located in Ontario, with an identity and essence deeply intertwined with its history, population, and the backbone of its economy.
Located next to the Wabigoon Lake, Dryden initially grew as a farming community. However, the 20th century saw a shift in its economic focus as the city embraced the pulp and paper industry. This shift was not just a change in trade; it altered the very fabric of the community, drawing in a diverse population and reshaping the city’s infrastructure.
For those unaware, Dryden have a proud history in the world of aviation. The city became pivotal in the early days of airborne communication and transportation, with its location making it a key hub. The Patricia Region Aeronautics Leadership Museum stands as a testament to this aviation legacy.
The economy of Dryden, while still reflecting its historic ties, has evolved. Today, the city doesn’t just rely on the pulp and paper industry. Mining, tourism, and various small businesses play a crucial role in driving the economic engine. The natural beauty surrounding the city – lakes, forests, and abundant wildlife – provides ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, thus fueling the tourism sector.
In terms of population, Dryden has always been a close-knit community. The inhabitants, although coming from various backgrounds, share a common love and pride for their city. Community events, local sports, and cultural festivities keep the spirit of the town alive and vibrant. And while the city might not be the most populous in Ontario, the sense of unity among its residents is palpable.
Despite its modest size, Dryden’s strategic location has allowed it to serve as a vital transportation link between eastern and western Canada. It’s not just a stopover but a destination with a rich history, a robust economy, and a tight-knit population.
Population Characteristics
According to the latest census, Dryden has a population of around 7,388 people. The city's population is in decreased . Between 2016 and 2021, the population of Dryden has decreased by ▼ -4.66%.
| Population in 2016 | Population in 2021 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 7,749 | 7,388 | --4.66% |
2026 Population Projection
Dryden's population declined between the 2016 and 2021 censuses, so a 2026 growth projection is not shown. The most recent confirmed figure remains the 7,388 people recorded in the 2021 census.
Dryden Population Trend & Context
Dryden is the 168th-largest city in Ontario, with a 2021 census population of 7,388 — a decline of 361 (▼ 4.66%) people from the 7,749 recorded in 2016.
The city's population has seen a slight decline over this period, reflecting broader pressures facing Ontario cities. The city's median age of 48 years — above the national median of 41.9 — suggests a mature, established community rather than a rapidly growing one.
How does Dryden compare to other Ontario cities?
- Fort Frances: 7,466 (2021)
- North Stormont: 7,400 (2021)
- Dryden: 7,388 (2021) ← 168th largest
- Augusta: 7,386 (2021)
- St. Marys: 7,386 (2021)
Population By Genders
The male population of Dryden is around 3,590 while the female population is around 3,800.
Of the 7,388 total population in Dryden, the largest gender is female with around 3,800 women within the population.
| Male | Female | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 3,590 | 3,800 | -5.53% |
Is Dryden a Good Place to Live?
Based on 2021 Statistics Canada Census data, here's how Dryden compares across key quality-of-life indicators — measured against Ontario, 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.
Dryden Population Compared to Ontario
Ontario's population in 2021 was 14,223,942, spread across the area. Here's how Dryden compares to the city's key indicators:
| Indicator | Dryden | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Median household income | $82,000 | $91,000 |
| Unemployment rate | 8.3% | 12.2% |
| Median age | 48 | 41.6 |
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 14.5% | 33.4% |
| Immigrants (%) | 6.1% | 30.0% |
Population by Age Characteristics
Dryden has an aging population. The majority of the population is people aged 60 to 64 years old, accounting for 8.70% of the total population. The city median age is 48.00.
| Data | Male | Female | Difference | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60 to 64 years | 325 9.10% | 315 8.30% | 3.08% | 640 8.70% |
| 55 to 59 years | 305 8.50% | 300 7.90% | 1.64% | 600 8.10% |
| 50 to 54 years | 255 7.10% | 255 6.70% | 0.00% | 515 7.00% |
| 65 to 69 years | 250 7.00% | 255 6.70% | 1.96% | 500 6.80% |
| 70 to 74 years | 215 6.00% | 265 7.00% | 18.87% | 480 6.50% |
| 20 to 24 years | 235 6.50% | 195 5.10% | 17.02% | 430 5.80% |
| 25 to 29 years | 205 5.70% | 215 5.70% | 4.65% | 425 5.80% |
| 30 to 34 years | 220 6.10% | 205 5.40% | 6.82% | 425 5.80% |
| 45 to 49 years | 185 5.20% | 225 5.90% | 17.78% | 410 5.50% |
| 35 to 39 years | 180 5.00% | 220 5.80% | 18.18% | 400 5.40% |
| 15 to 19 years | 190 5.30% | 195 5.10% | 2.56% | 385 5.20% |
| 40 to 44 years | 190 5.30% | 195 5.10% | 2.56% | 385 5.20% |
| 10 to 14 years | 185 5.20% | 195 5.10% | 5.13% | 380 5.10% |
| 5 to 9 years | 165 4.60% | 170 4.50% | 2.94% | 330 4.50% |
| 75 to 79 years | 140 3.90% | 165 4.30% | 15.15% | 310 4.20% |
| 0 to 4 years | 145 4.00% | 155 4.10% | 6.45% | 295 4.00% |
| 80 to 84 years | 110 3.10% | 150 3.90% | 26.67% | 260 3.50% |
| 85 years and over | 85 2.40% | 125 3.30% | 32.00% | 215 2.90% |
| 85 to 89 years | 65 1.80% | 70 1.80% | 7.14% | 140 1.90% |
| 90 to 94 years | 20 0.60% | 40 1.10% | 50.00% | 60 0.80% |
| Median age of the population | 47 47.20% | 49 48.80% | 2.05% | 48 48.00% |
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 62.40% of the population. The other age groups, 65 years and over and 0 to 14 years, account for 23.90% and 13.70%, respectively.
If we look at the population data from the broader age groups, we can see that most people in Dryden are within the 15 to 64 years age group.
| Data | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average age of the population | 44.70% | 46.10% | 45.40% |
| 65 years and over | 22.40% | 25.30% | 23.90% |
| 0 to 14 years | 13.80% | 13.60% | 13.70% |
Photos of Places & Sceneries in Dryden
Explore Dryden Through Videos
Population of Dryden by Ethnicity and Origin
The population of Dryden is quite diverse, which contributes to the city's vibrant cultural landscape. Dryden 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 Dryden are English, which accounts for 25.86% of the total population, followed by Scottish (22.96%), Irish (17.98%), Canadian (16.04%), and German (13.14%).
Other ethnicities and origins in Dryden include French, Ukrainian, First Nations (North American Indian), Polish, and Swedish.
| Ethnicity and Origin | Male | Female | Percentage in Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | 26.38% | 25.24% | 25.86% |
| Scottish | 24.26% | 21.59% | 22.96% |
| Irish | 17.02% | 18.76% | 17.98% |
| Canadian | 16.74% | 15.38% | 16.04% |
| German | 14.61% | 11.74% | 13.14% |
| French | 13.19% | 12.42% | 12.72% |
| Ukrainian | 8.09% | 9.18% | 8.64% |
| First Nations (North American Indian) | 5.25% | 6.61% | 5.88% |
| Polish | 4.54% | 4.99% | 4.70% |
| Swedish | 3.69% | 5.26% | 4.50% |
Immigration Profile
Immigration patterns vary a great deal from one area to another, which makes this data one of the more distinctive parts of Dryden's population profile.
About 6.1% of Dryden's population are immigrants (440 people).
The top countries of origin for Dryden's immigrant population are Philippines (85), United States of America (70), United Kingdom (70), Germany (45), Italy (30).
| Country of Birth | Population |
|---|---|
| Philippines | 85 |
| United States of America | 70 |
| United Kingdom | 70 |
| Germany | 45 |
| Italy | 30 |
Household and Dwelling Characteristics
About 2,540 of Dryden's population live in a single-detached house. In addition, most of them are living in 2 persons household.
Household Size
About 18.80% of the population lives in 2 persons households. 1 person households ranked second, accounting for 16.80% of the population. 3 persons, 4 persons, and 5 or more persons households account for 6.35%, 5.45%, and 2.55%, respectively.
| Number of Person(s) in Household | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 2 persons | 1,245 | 18.80% |
| 1 person | 1,115 | 16.80% |
| 3 persons | 420 | 6.35% |
| 4 persons | 360 | 5.45% |
| 5 or more persons | 170 | 2.55% |
Income in Dryden
Analyzing income distribution in Dryden can help us better understand its socioeconomic dynamics.
Per Capita Income
According to 2020 data, the median personal income within Dryden is $45,200.
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 Dryden population or around 865 people falls in the $50,000 to $79,999 group. The next largest groups are the $10,000 to $29,999, and $30,000 to $49,999 with around 815 and 770 people, respectively.
Household Income
The Dryden's median household income is $82,000, according to 2020 data.
Below national average Dryden's median household income is 2,000 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 Dryden
This data sheds light on the distribution of Dryden 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.
49.50% or most of the Dryden population has a Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree. 34.05% of the population has a High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate, 16.50% has a No certificate, diploma or degree, and 14.50% has Bachelor's degree or higher.
| Degree | Men | Women | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree | 2,305 | 2,575 | 4,880 | 49.50% |
| High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate | 1,770 | 1,595 | 3,375 | 34.05% |
| No certificate, diploma or degree | 865 | 850 | 1,725 | 16.50% |
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 510 | 905 | 1,415 | 14.50% |
Below national average 14.5% of Dryden's population has a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 32.9% (Canada, 2021 Census).
Employment in Dryden
This dataset provides a snapshot of employment trends in Dryden. It encompasses a wide range of sectors, industries, as well as job categories.
The data shows that the unemployment rate in Dryden is at 4.82% which is pretty low.
| Status | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Employment rate | 53.14% |
| Unemployment rate | 4.82% |
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 Dryden's population (around 76.00%) are working permanent position as an employee.
Self-employed
In the city, there are 165 men and 115 women working as self-employed individuals, bringing the total number to 275.
| Status | Men | Women | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-employed | 165 | 115 | 275 |
Employment Industry Sectors
The Dryden industry employment sector census data offers insights into the region's economic landscape. The distribution of employment in Dryden is categorized and quantified, which reveals the region's economic composition.
Dryden has a wide range of industries. Most of its population (18%) works in the health care and social assistance sector. The Retail trade sector comes second at 16%, followed by Accommodation and food services at 9%.
| Industry | Men | Women | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health care and social assistance | 110 | 555 | 18% |
| Retail trade | 290 | 275 | 16% |
| Accommodation and food services | 135 | 175 | 9% |
| Manufacturing | 260 | 50 | 9% |
| Public administration | 155 | 100 | 7% |
| Transportation and warehousing | 205 | 25 | 7% |
| Educational services | 55 | 160 | 6% |
| Construction | 150 | 30 | 5% |
| Other services (except public administration) | 85 | 60 | 4% |
| Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting | 105 | 30 | 4% |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 55 | 75 | 4% |
| Finance and insurance | 15 | 70 | 3% |
| Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction | 60 | 0 | 2% |
| Wholesale trade | 60 | 10 | 2% |
| Utilities | 50 | 0 | 1% |
| Information and cultural industries | 45 | 0 | 1% |
| Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services | 15 | 25 | 1% |
| Real estate and rental and leasing | 20 | 20 | 1% |
| Arts, entertainment and recreation | 0 | 20 | 1% |
| Management of companies and enterprises | 0 | 0 | 0% |
Labour Market Snapshot
A quick snapshot of where Dryden residents work — the leading industry sectors employing them, and the broad occupation categories they work in.
Top employer sectors in Dryden: Health care and social assistance (18%), -45 Retail trade (16%), Accommodation and food services (9%)
Top occupation categories in Dryden: Sales and service occupations (27%), Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupations (20%), Business, finance and administration occupations (16%)
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 | 1,295 | 1,290 | 2,585 | 78.20% |
| No fixed workplace address | 345 | 75 | 420 | 12.70% |
| Worked at home | 120 | 185 | 305 | 9.20% |
| Worked outside Canada | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.00% |
Commuting
The data sheds light on how Dryden 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 Dryden residents and sustainable urban planning.
Commuting Duration
This data reveals the average time that the residents of Dryden 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 | 76.20% |
| 15 to 29 minutes | 13.80% |
| 60 minutes and over | 7.00% |
| 30 to 44 minutes | 2.20% |
| 45 to 59 minutes | 0.50% |
Marital Status
The statistics on marital status in Drydenshed 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 Dryden'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 Dryden. About 7,145 people living in the province speak English, 115 people speak French, 10 people speak Neither English nor French language, and 0 people speak English and French language.
| Language | Population |
|---|---|
| English | 7,145 |
| French | 115 |
| Neither English nor French | 10 |
| English and French | 0 |
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 | 91.6% | 98.1% |
| Non-official languages | 5.4% | 1.1% |
| French | 1.9% | 0.3% |
Religion
Dryden is predominantly Christian. About 4,000 of its population is Christian (1,775 males and 1,775 females).
The second largest religion in the province is Hindu with 0.9% of the population adhering to the religion. There are also Buddhist and Sikh, both represent 0.2% and 0.1% of the population, while Jewish represent 0.0% of the population.
| Religion | Population |
|---|---|
| Christian | 55.3% |
| Hindu | 0.9% |
| Buddhist | 0.2% |
| Sikh | 0.1% |
| Jewish | 0.0% |
| Islam | 0.0% |
Points of Interest in Dryden
Hospitals
Schools
- New Prospect Public School
- Dryden High School
- Open Roads Public School
- St. Josephs Separate School
- École catholique de l'Enfant-Jésus
Parks
- Milestone Park
- Sandy Beach Park
- Milestone Park
- Pronger Park
- Kinsmen Park
- Plumbridge Park
- Flat Rock
- Lion's Park
- Earl's court
- Johnston's Park
- Hatch Memorial Parkway
Libraries
Community Centres
Places to Visit in Dryden
Museums
Attractions
Historic Sites
Green Spaces in Dryden
| Name | Type | Approx. Area |
|---|---|---|
| Milestone Park | Parks | — |
| Sandy Beach Park | Parks | 2.1 ha |
| Milestone Park | Parks | 1.2 ha |
| Pronger Park | Parks | 2.0 ha |
| Kinsmen Park | Parks | 0.5 ha |
| Plumbridge Park | Parks | 0.7 ha |
| Flat Rock | Parks | 0.9 ha |
| Lion's Park | Parks | 0.6 ha |
| Earl's court | Parks | 0.1 ha |
| Johnston's Park | Parks | 1.6 ha |
| Hatch Memorial Parkway | Parks | 0.3 ha |
| Laura Howe Marsh | Nature Reserves | 37.3 ha |
Areas are approximate, calculated from OpenStreetMap boundary data.
Other Cities in Ontario
- Toronto 2,794,356
- Ottawa 1,017,449
- Mississauga 717,961
- Brampton 656,480
- Hamilton 569,353
- London 422,324
- Markham 338,503
- Vaughan 323,103
- Kitchener 256,885
- Windsor 229,660
- Burlington 186,948
- Oshawa 175,383
- Greater Sudbury / Grand Sudbury 166,004
- Barrie 147,829
- Guelph 143,740
- Cambridge 138,479
- St. Catharines 136,803
- Kingston 132,485
- Waterloo 121,436
- Thunder Bay 108,843
- Brantford 104,688
- Pickering 99,186
- Niagara Falls 94,415
- Peterborough 83,651
- Kawartha Lakes 79,247
- Sault Ste. Marie 72,051
- Sarnia 72,047
- Norfolk County 67,490
- Welland 55,750
- Belleville 55,071
- North Bay 52,662
- Haldimand County 49,216
- Cornwall 47,845
- Woodstock 46,705
- Quinte West 46,560
- St. Thomas 42,840
- Timmins 41,145
- Brant 39,474
- Orillia 33,411
- Stratford 33,232
- Clarence-Rockland 26,505
- Prince Edward County 25,704
- Thorold 23,816
- Brockville 22,116
- Owen Sound 21,612
- Port Colborne 20,033
- Kenora 14,967
- Pembroke 14,364
- Elliot Lake 11,372
- Temiskaming Shores 9,634
Frequently Asked Questions about Dryden
According to the 2021 Statistics Canada Census, Dryden has a population of 7,388 people, making it the 168th city in Ontario. The population declined moderately from 7,749 in 2016, a decrease of 361 people or 4.66%. The city has a population density of 112.7 people per km² across a land area of 65.58 km². The 2026 Census results are expected from Statistics Canada beginning February 2027.
Dryden's population declined by 4.66% between the 2016 and 2021 censuses — from 7,749 to 7,388 people, a loss of 361 residents. This decline is consistent with pressures faced by many other Ontario cities during this period. The median age of 48.00 years suggests an aging population. The relatively high proportion of one-person households (33.6%) may indicate young adults leaving for larger centres. Official 2026 Census data, which will confirm whether this trend continued, is expected from Statistics Canada in February 2027.
Dryden has a population density of approximately 112.70 people per square kilometre.
Dryden covers a land area of approximately 65.58 km².
The median age of the population in Dryden is 48.00 years.
The largest ethnic or cultural origin group in Dryden is English.
The median household income in Dryden is $82,000, based on 2020 data.
English is the most common first official language spoken in Dryden.
Christian is the predominant religion in Dryden.
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.