About Kawartha Lakes
In the heart of Ontario, Canada, Kawartha Lakes unfurls as a remarkable city known for its amalgamation of vibrant communities and lush landscapes. Kawartha Lakes, with its diversified terrains and array of small towns, is emblematic of the unique blend of urban and rural elements, rendering it a notable locale in the province.
Kawartha Lakes is revered for its substantial population of approximately 79,247 residents, each contributing to the cultural mosaic of the region. The inhabitants of this city reveal a fabric of various backgrounds, interconnected by their shared love for the refreshing ambiance and congenial lifestyle that the city offers.
The local economy of Kawartha Lakes is as varied as its landscapes, powered by sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. Agriculture plays a crucial role, with the fertile lands providing sustenance and contributing significantly to the local market. Manufacturing, on the other hand, fortifies the economic structure of the city, with numerous industries rooted in the area, reflecting the industrious spirit of the locals.
Tourism is another key pillar supporting Kawartha Lakes, with the city being a magnet for those seeking respite from the urban hustle. The serene lakes, the lush green fields, and the enchanting trails beckon visitors from near and far, with the promise of rejuvenation and exploration. The city’s vast expanse of natural beauty is complemented by the warm hospitality of its residents, making it a favorable destination for travelers.
Kawartha Lakes isn’t merely a cluster of communities; it’s a realm where nature and humanity coexist harmoniously. It’s a place where the air is crisp, the lands are fertile, and the people are genuine. The variegated neighborhoods within the city each possess their distinct charm and personality, contributing to the eclectic character of Kawartha Lakes.
Education and community services in Kawartha Lakes are robust and well-established, ensuring the holistic development of its citizens. The institutions here are equipped to impart knowledge and values to the younger generation, preparing them to be the torchbearers of the future.
In this multifaceted city, every street tells a story, and every corner holds a secret, waiting to be discovered. The life in Kawartha Lakes is not about the hustle and bustle but about savoring each moment, witnessing the symphony of nature, and being part of a close-knit and welcoming community.
Whether it’s the allure of untouched landscapes or the prospect of being part of a community that values togetherness and mutual respect, Kawartha Lakes stands out as a city with a heart as vast as its lands. This place is not just a geographical entity but a living, breathing entity that encapsulates the essence of life in its purest form.
Population Characteristics
According to the latest census, Kawartha Lakes has a population of around 79,247 people. The city's population is in increased . Between 2016 and 2021, the population of Kawartha Lakes has increased by 5.07%.
| Population in 2016 | Population in 2021 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 75,423 | 79,247 | +5.07% |
2026 Population Projection
Based on the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 0.99% observed between the 2016 and 2021 censuses, Kawartha Lakes's population is projected to reach approximately 83,265 people by 2026, with a projected population density of around 27.45 people per km².
| Population in 2021 | Projected Population in 2026 | Projected Density in 2026 (per km²) |
|---|---|---|
| 79,247 | 83,265 | 27.45 |
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 Kawartha Lakes is around 39,380 while the female population is around 39,865.
Of the 79,247 total population in Kawartha Lakes, the largest gender is female with around 39,865 women within the population.
| Male | Female | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 39,380 | 39,865 | +1.22% |
Is Kawartha Lakes a Good Place to Live?
Based on 2021 Statistics Canada Census data, here's how Kawartha Lakes 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.
Other Cities Near Kawartha Lakes
- Peterborough (34.1 km)
- Oshawa (52.3 km)
- Orillia (60.2 km)
- Pickering (64.6 km)
- Markham (73.4 km)
- Barrie (75.4 km)
- Vaughan (88.8 km)
- Toronto (93.8 km)
- Quinte West (97.4 km)
Population by Age Characteristics
Kawartha Lakes has an aging population. The majority of the population is people aged 60 to 64 years old, accounting for 9.20% of the total population. The city median age is 51.60.
| Data | Male | Female | Difference | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60 to 64 years | 3,630 9.20% | 3,660 9.20% | 0.82% | 7,295 9.20% |
| 65 to 69 years | 3,365 8.50% | 3,635 9.10% | 7.43% | 6,995 8.80% |
| 55 to 59 years | 3,240 8.20% | 3,525 8.80% | 8.09% | 6,770 8.50% |
| 70 to 74 years | 2,940 7.50% | 3,010 7.60% | 2.33% | 5,950 7.50% |
| 50 to 54 years | 2,400 6.10% | 2,410 6.00% | 0.41% | 4,810 6.10% |
| 30 to 34 years | 2,225 5.70% | 2,050 5.10% | 7.87% | 4,275 5.40% |
| 35 to 39 years | 2,140 5.40% | 2,075 5.20% | 3.04% | 4,215 5.30% |
| 75 to 79 years | 2,025 5.10% | 2,190 5.50% | 7.53% | 4,210 5.30% |
| 25 to 29 years | 2,145 5.40% | 1,915 4.80% | 10.72% | 4,065 5.10% |
| 45 to 49 years | 1,960 5.00% | 1,990 5.00% | 1.51% | 3,955 5.00% |
| 40 to 44 years | 1,955 5.00% | 1,940 4.90% | 0.77% | 3,900 4.90% |
| 20 to 24 years | 1,970 5.00% | 1,685 4.20% | 14.47% | 3,655 4.60% |
| 10 to 14 years | 1,900 4.80% | 1,705 4.30% | 10.26% | 3,610 4.60% |
| 5 to 9 years | 1,820 4.60% | 1,715 4.30% | 5.77% | 3,535 4.50% |
| 15 to 19 years | 1,740 4.40% | 1,685 4.20% | 3.16% | 3,425 4.30% |
| 0 to 4 years | 1,720 4.40% | 1,675 4.20% | 2.62% | 3,390 4.30% |
| 80 to 84 years | 1,245 3.20% | 1,355 3.40% | 8.12% | 2,600 3.30% |
| 85 years and over | 955 2.40% | 1,640 4.10% | 41.77% | 2,600 3.30% |
| 85 to 89 years | 660 1.70% | 930 2.30% | 29.03% | 1,595 2.00% |
| 90 to 94 years | 245 0.60% | 545 1.40% | 55.05% | 785 1.00% |
| 95 to 99 years | 45 0.10% | 150 0.40% | 70.00% | 190 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 58.50% of the population. The other age groups, 65 years and over and 0 to 14 years, account for 28.20% and 13.30%, respectively.
If we look at the population data from the broader age groups, we can see that most people in Kawartha Lakes are within the 15 to 64 years age group.
| Data | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age of the population | 50.40% | 53.20% | 51.60% |
| Average age of the population | 46.40% | 48.40% | 47.40% |
| 65 years and over | 26.70% | 29.70% | 28.20% |
| 0 to 14 years | 13.80% | 12.80% | 13.30% |
Photos of Places & Sceneries in Kawartha Lakes
Explore Kawartha Lakes Through Videos
Population of Kawartha Lakes by Ethnicity and Origin
The population of Kawartha Lakes is quite diverse, which contributes to the city's vibrant cultural landscape. Kawartha Lakes 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 35.88% of the total population, followed by Irish (27.25%), Scottish (25.46%), Canadian (20.56%), and German (8.79%).
Other ethnicities and origins in Newfoundland and Labrador include French, British Isles, Dutch, Italian, and Welsh.
| Ethnicity and Origin | Male | Female | Percentage in Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | 34.68% | 37.04% | 35.88% |
| Irish | 25.72% | 28.75% | 27.25% |
| Scottish | 24.69% | 26.22% | 25.46% |
| Canadian | 20.92% | 20.19% | 20.56% |
| German | 8.75% | 8.82% | 8.79% |
| French | 7.11% | 7.85% | 7.49% |
| British Isles | 6.15% | 5.55% | 5.85% |
| Dutch | 5.30% | 5.27% | 5.28% |
| Italian | 3.74% | 3.09% | 3.41% |
| Welsh | 2.67% | 3.24% | 2.96% |
Immigration Profile
Immigration patterns vary a great deal from one area to another, which makes this data one of the more distinctive parts of Kawartha Lakes's population profile.
About 7.9% of Kawartha Lakes's population are immigrants (6,100 people).
The top countries of origin for Kawartha Lakes's immigrant population are United Kingdom (2,195), Germany (460), United States of America (365), Netherlands (280), China (140).
| Country of Birth | Population |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 2,195 |
| Germany | 460 |
| United States of America | 365 |
| Netherlands | 280 |
| China | 140 |
Household and Dwelling Characteristics
About 27,400 of Kawartha Lakes's population live in a single-detached house. In addition, most of them are living in 2 persons household.
Household Size
About 20.95% of the population lives in 2 persons households. 1 person households ranked second, accounting for 12.80% of the population. 3 persons, 4 persons, and 5 or more persons households account for 7.00%, 5.75%, and 3.50%, respectively.
| Number of Person(s) in Household | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 2 persons | 13,715 | 20.95% |
| 1 person | 8,375 | 12.80% |
| 3 persons | 4,580 | 7.00% |
| 4 persons | 3,750 | 5.75% |
| 5 or more persons | 2,285 | 3.50% |
Income in Kawartha Lakes
Analyzing income distribution in Kawartha Lakes can help us better understand its socioeconomic dynamics.
Per Capita Income
According to 2020 data, the median personal income within Kawartha Lakes is $39,200.
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 Kawartha Lakes population or around 8,940 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 7,585 and 7,580 people, respectively.
Household Income
The Kawartha Lakes's median household income is $82,000, according to 2020 data.
Below national average Kawartha Lakes'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 Kawartha Lakes
This data sheds light on the distribution of Kawartha Lakes 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.
52.90% or most of the Kawartha Lakes population has a Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree. 32.85% of the population has a High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate, 14.60% has a Bachelor's degree or higher, and 14.30% has No certificate, diploma or degree.
| Degree | Men | Women | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree | 25,590 | 28,920 | 54,505 | 52.90% |
| High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate | 17,335 | 17,415 | 34,750 | 32.85% |
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 5,725 | 9,310 | 15,035 | 14.60% |
| No certificate, diploma or degree | 8,975 | 6,955 | 15,930 | 14.30% |
Below national average 14.6% of Kawartha Lakes's population has a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 32.9% (Canada, 2021 Census).
Employment in Kawartha Lakes
This dataset provides a snapshot of employment trends in Kawartha Lakes. 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 6.14% which is quite high.
| Status | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Employment rate | 48.58% |
| Unemployment rate | 6.14% |
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 Kawartha Lakes's population (around 69.50%) are working permanent position as an employee.
Self-employed
In the city, there are 3,705 men and 2,275 women working as self-employed individuals, bringing the total number to 5,980.
| Status | Men | Women | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-employed | 3,705 | 2,275 | 5,980 |
Employment Industry Sectors
The Kawartha Lakes industry employment sector census data offers insights into the region's economic landscape. The distribution of employment in Kawartha Lakes is categorized and quantified, which reveals the region's economic composition.
Kawartha Lakes has a wide range of industries. Most of its population (13%) works in the construction sector. The Health care and social assistance sector comes second at 13%, followed by Retail trade at 12%.
| Industry | Men | Women | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Construction | 4,380 | 450 | 13% |
| Health care and social assistance | 615 | 4,110 | 13% |
| Retail trade | 2,110 | 2,355 | 12% |
| Manufacturing | 1,905 | 695 | 7% |
| Educational services | 610 | 1,655 | 6% |
| Public administration | 1,205 | 1,040 | 6% |
| Accommodation and food services | 705 | 1,140 | 5% |
| Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services | 1,070 | 715 | 5% |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 780 | 1,000 | 5% |
| Other services (except public administration) | 800 | 795 | 4% |
| Transportation and warehousing | 1,055 | 460 | 4% |
| Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting | 905 | 405 | 4% |
| Wholesale trade | 745 | 290 | 3% |
| Finance and insurance | 270 | 685 | 3% |
| Arts, entertainment and recreation | 415 | 355 | 2% |
| Utilities | 500 | 105 | 2% |
| Real estate and rental and leasing | 280 | 300 | 2% |
| Information and cultural industries | 220 | 165 | 1% |
| Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction | 175 | 30 | 1% |
| Management of companies and enterprises | 0 | 0 | 0% |
Labour Market Snapshot
A quick snapshot of where Kawartha Lakes residents work — the leading industry sectors employing them, and the broad occupation categories they work in.
Top employer sectors in Kawartha Lakes: Construction (13%), Health care and social assistance (13%), -45 Retail trade (12%)
Top occupation categories in Kawartha Lakes: Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupations (25%), Sales and service occupations (24%), Business, finance and administration occupations (13%)
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 | 10,225 | 10,455 | 20,685 | 63.80% |
| Worked at home | 2,690 | 3,490 | 6,175 | 19.10% |
| No fixed workplace address | 4,315 | 1,165 | 5,475 | 16.90% |
| Worked outside Canada | 55 | 0 | 65 | 0.20% |
Commuting
The data sheds light on how Kawartha Lakes 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 Kawartha Lakes residents and sustainable urban planning.
Commuting Duration
This data reveals the average time that the residents of Kawartha Lakes 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 | 27.50% |
| 15 to 29 minutes | 24.80% |
| 60 minutes and over | 19.30% |
| 30 to 44 minutes | 18.10% |
| 45 to 59 minutes | 10.30% |
Marital Status
The statistics on marital status in Kawartha Lakesshed 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 Kawartha Lakes'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 Kawartha Lakes. About 76,945 people living in the province speak English, 670 people speak French, 140 people speak Neither English nor French language, and 40 people speak English and French language.
| Language | Population |
|---|---|
| English | 76,945 |
| French | 670 |
| Neither English nor French | 140 |
| English and French | 40 |
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 | 93.9% | 98.0% |
| Non-official languages | 4.3% | 1.4% |
| French | 0.9% | 0.2% |
Religion
Kawartha Lakes is predominantly Christian. About 41,525 of its population is Christian (19,245 males and 19,245 females).
The second largest religion in the province is Hindu with 0.4% of the population adhering to the religion. There are also Muslim and Jewish, both represent 0.3% and 0.2% of the population, while Buddhist represent 0.1% of the population.
| Religion | Population |
|---|---|
| Christian | 53.8% |
| Hindu | 0.4% |
| Islam | 0.3% |
| Jewish | 0.2% |
| Buddhist | 0.1% |
| Sikh | 0.1% |
Points of Interest in Kawartha Lakes
Hospitals
Schools
Parks
- The Boardwalk
- Minden Rotary Park
- ASES Park
- Snowdon Park
- Steve McNevitts Park
- Sewey Bed
- SC Field
- Compoun Airsoft Field
- Harrington Park
- Thorah Centennial Park
- Foxwood
- Brechin Community Centre Park
- Coboconk & District Lions Park
- Fenelon Falls Fairground
- Ward Memorial Park
- Fenelon Beach
- Tommy Anderson Park
- Omemee Municipal Park
- Lindsay Memorial Park
Libraries
- Kawartha Lakes Public Library - Fenelon Falls Branch
- Kawartha Lakes Public Library - Lindsay Branch
- Kawartha Lakes Public Library - Bobcaygeon Branch
- Kawartha Lakes Public Library - Omemee Branch
- Cavan Monaghan Public Library - Millbrook Branch
- Kawartha Lakes Public Library - Kinmount Branch
- Kawartha Lakes Public Library - Kirkfield Branch
- Kawartha Lakes Public Library - Little Britain Branch
- Kawartha Lakes Public Library - Woodville Branch
- Kawartha Lakes Public Library - Bethany Branch
- Kawartha Lakes Public Library - Dunsford Branch
- Brock Libraries - Sunderland Branch
- Brock Libraries - Cannington Branch
- Ramara Township Public Library - Brechin Branch
- Georgina Public Library - Pefferlaw Branch
Community Centres
- Oakwood Community Centre
- Bolsover Commuinty Centre
- Fenelon Falls Community Centre
- Bobcaygeon Lions Hall
- Beaverton Thoran Community Centre
Green Spaces in Kawartha Lakes
| Name | Type | Approx. Area |
|---|---|---|
| The Boardwalk | Parks | — |
| Minden Rotary Park | Parks | — |
| ASES Park | Parks | — |
| Snowdon Park | Parks | — |
| Steve McNevitts Park | Parks | — |
| Sewey Bed | Parks | — |
| SC Field | Parks | — |
| Compoun Airsoft Field | Parks | — |
| Harrington Park | Parks | — |
| Thorah Centennial Park | Parks | 1.3 ha |
| Foxwood | Parks | 14.1 ha |
| Brechin Community Centre Park | Parks | 2.0 ha |
| Coboconk & District Lions Park | Parks | 1.8 ha |
| Trent Canal | Nature Reserves | — |
| Trent Canal | Nature Reserves | — |
| Windy Ridge Conservation Area | Nature Reserves | — |
Areas are approximate, calculated from OpenStreetMap boundary data.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kawartha Lakes
According to the 2021 census, Kawartha Lakes has a population of approximately 79,247 people.
Between 2016 and 2021, the population of Kawartha Lakes increased by 5.07%.
Kawartha Lakes has a population density of approximately 26.10 people per square kilometre.
Kawartha Lakes covers a land area of approximately 3,033.66 km².
The median age of the population in Kawartha Lakes is 51.60 years.
The largest ethnic or cultural origin group in Kawartha Lakes is English.
The median household income in Kawartha Lakes is $82,000, based on 2020 data.
English is the most common first official language spoken in Kawartha Lakes.
Christian is the predominant religion in Kawartha Lakes.
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.