Peterborough, Ontario — Population & Demographics (2026)
Data source: Statistics Canada, 2021 Census of Population — View the official Peterborough census dataset on Statistics Canada
- Population (2021)
- 83,651
- +3.2% since 2016
- Density
- 1,291.8
- people per km²
- Land area
- 64.76
- km²
- Median age
- 43.2
- years
- Median household income
- $71,500
- 2020, before tax
This article shows the demographic data and statistics of Peterborough. It is a city in Canada that encompasses a land area of 64.76 km2. The city has a population density of 1291.80 people per km2.
We highlight the Peterborough city's various population characteristics. From gender, age distribution, ethnicity, household and dwelling, and income to spoken languages, occupation, and religion.
Peterborough on the Map
- Points of interest (51)
- Places to visit (25)
- Green spaces (20)
Peterborough location on the map. View in Google Maps
Population Characteristics
According to the latest census, Peterborough has a population of around 83,651 people. The city's population is in increased. Between 2016 and 2021, the population of Peterborough has increased by ▲ 3.23%.
| Population in 2016 | Population in 2021 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 81,032 | 83,651 | +3.23% |
2026 Population Projection
Based on the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 0.64% observed between the 2016 and 2021 censuses, Peterborough's population is projected to reach approximately 86,355 people by 2026, with a projected population density of around 1,333.46 people per km².
| Population in 2021 | Projected Population in 2026 | Projected Density in 2026 (per km²) |
|---|---|---|
| 83,651 | 86,355 | 1,333.46 |
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.
Peterborough Population Trend & Context
Peterborough is the 30th-largest city in Ontario, with a 2021 census population of 83,651 — an increase of 2,619 (▲ 3.23%) people from the 81,032 recorded in 2016.
The city's population has grown slightly over this period, reflecting broader growth trends among Ontario cities. The city's median age of 43.2 years closely mirrors the national median of 41.9, suggesting a demographic profile in line with the Canadian average.
How does Peterborough compare to other Ontario cities?
- 28th Niagara Falls 94,415
- 29th Newmarket 87,942
- 30th Peterborough This city 83,651
- 31st Kawartha Lakes 79,247
- 32nd Caledon 76,581
Population By Genders
The male population of Peterborough is around 39,490 while the female population is around 44,160.
Of the 83,651 total population in Peterborough, the largest gender is female with around 44,160 female within the population.
| Male | Female | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 39,490 | 44,160 | +10.58% |
Is Peterborough a Good Place to Live?
Based on 2021 Statistics Canada Census data, here's how Peterborough 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.
Peterborough Population Compared to Ontario
Ontario's population in 2021 was 14,223,942, spread across the area. Here's how Peterborough compares to the city's key indicators:
| Indicator | Peterborough | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Median household income | $71,500 | $91,000 |
| Unemployment rate | — | 12.2% |
| Median age | 43.2 | 41.6 |
| Bachelor's degree or higher | — | 33.4% |
| Immigrants (%) | — | 30.0% |
Population by Age Characteristics
Peterborough has a young population. The majority of the population is people aged 25 to 29 years old, accounting for 7.20% of the total population. The city median age is 43.20.
| Data | Male | Female | Difference | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 to 29 years | 2,975 7.50% | 3,045 6.90% | 2.30% | 6,020 7.20% |
| 20 to 24 years | 2,920 7.40% | 3,070 7.00% | 4.89% | 5,985 7.20% |
| 60 to 64 years | 2,590 6.60% | 3,165 7.20% | 18.17% | 5,750 6.90% |
| 65 to 69 years | 2,500 6.30% | 2,950 6.70% | 15.25% | 5,455 6.50% |
| 30 to 34 years | 2,700 6.80% | 2,750 6.20% | 1.82% | 5,450 6.50% |
| 55 to 59 years | 2,480 6.30% | 2,895 6.60% | 14.34% | 5,375 6.40% |
| 35 to 39 years | 2,545 6.40% | 2,635 6.00% | 3.42% | 5,185 6.20% |
| 70 to 74 years | 2,270 5.70% | 2,855 6.50% | 20.49% | 5,125 6.10% |
| 50 to 54 years | 2,130 5.40% | 2,410 5.50% | 11.62% | 4,545 5.40% |
| 40 to 44 years | 2,130 5.40% | 2,375 5.40% | 10.32% | 4,505 5.40% |
| 45 to 49 years | 2,200 5.60% | 2,230 5.00% | 1.35% | 4,430 5.30% |
| 15 to 19 years | 2,105 5.30% | 2,090 4.70% | 0.71% | 4,195 5.00% |
| 5 to 9 years | 2,145 5.40% | 2,025 4.60% | 5.59% | 4,170 5.00% |
| 10 to 14 years | 2,070 5.20% | 2,090 4.70% | 0.96% | 4,155 5.00% |
| 75 to 79 years | 1,585 4.00% | 2,095 4.70% | 24.34% | 3,685 4.40% |
| 0 to 4 years | 1,865 4.70% | 1,765 4.00% | 5.36% | 3,635 4.30% |
| 85 years and over | 1,160 2.90% | 2,150 4.90% | 46.05% | 3,310 4.00% |
| 80 to 84 years | 1,125 2.80% | 1,565 3.50% | 28.12% | 2,690 3.20% |
| 85 to 89 years | 760 1.90% | 1,145 2.60% | 33.62% | 1,910 2.30% |
| 90 to 94 years | 320 0.80% | 695 1.60% | 53.96% | 1,015 1.20% |
| 95 to 99 years | 70 0.20% | 275 0.60% | 74.55% | 345 0.40% |
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 61.50% of the population. The other age groups, 65 years and over and 0 to 14 years, account for 24.20% and 14.30%, respectively.
If we look at the population data from the broader age groups, we can see that most people in Peterborough are within the 15 to 64 years age group.
| Data | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 to 64 years | 62.70% | 60.40% | 61.50% |
| 65 years and over | 21.90% | 26.30% | 24.20% |
| 0 to 14 years | 15.40% | 13.30% | 14.30% |
Explore Peterborough Through Videos
Population of Peterborough by Ethnicity and Origin
The population of Peterborough is quite diverse, which contributes to the city's vibrant cultural landscape. Peterborough is inclusive and accepts various ethnic groups with open arms. Furthermore, the city appreciates the unique contributions that each ethnicity brings.
Immigration Profile
Household and Dwelling Characteristics
About 20,560 of Peterborough's population live in a single-detached house. In addition, most of them are living in 2 persons household.
Household Size
About 17.75% of the population lives in 2 persons households. 1 person households ranked second, accounting for 16.25% of the population. 3 persons, 4 persons, and 5 or more persons households account for 7.20%, 5.60%, and 3.20%, respectively.
| Number of Person(s) in Household | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 2 persons | 12,785 | 17.75% |
| 1 person | 11,680 | 16.25% |
| 3 persons | 5,165 | 7.20% |
| 4 persons | 4,035 | 5.60% |
| 5 or more persons | 2,305 | 3.20% |
Family and Household Structure in Peterborough
Of census families in Peterborough, 79.3% are couple families and 20.7% are one-parent families. The average census family has 2.7 people.
32.5% of households in Peterborough are one-person households, 44.5% are couple-family households, 10.1% are one-parent-family households, and 2.4% are multigenerational households.
| Household Type | Households | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| One-person households | 11,685 | 32.5% |
| Couple-family households | 16,000 | 44.5% |
| One-parent-family households | 3,620 | 10.1% |
| Multigenerational households | 865 | 2.4% |
Income in Peterborough
Analyzing income distribution in Peterborough can help us better understand its socioeconomic dynamics.
Per Capita Income
According to 2020 data, the median personal income within Peterborough is $37,200.
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 Peterborough population or around 10,630 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 8,330 and 7,385 people, respectively.
Household Income
The Peterborough's median household income is $71,500, according to 2020 data.
Below national average Peterborough's median household income is 12,500 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 Peterborough
Employment in Peterborough
Working as an Employee
Employment Industry Sectors
Labour Market Snapshot
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.
Commuting
The data sheds light on how Peterborough 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 Peterborough residents and sustainable urban planning.
Commuting Duration
This data reveals the average time that the residents of Peterborough 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.
Marital Status
The statistics on marital status in Peterborough shed 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 Peterborough'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.
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.
Religion
Points of Interest in Peterborough
Schools
- Rhema Christian School
- St. Paul Catholic Elementary School
- Armour Heights Public School
- Kenner Collegiate and Vocational Institute
- St. Teresa Catholic Elementary School
- Keith Wightman Public School
- Monsignor O'Donoghue Catholic Elementary School
- St. Peter Catholic Secondary School
- Queen Mary Public School
- Otonabee Valley Public School
Parks
- Union Street Park
- Victoria Park
- Humber Park
- Eastgate Memorial Park
- Rogers Cove
- Chelsea Gardens
- Beavermead Park
- Rideau Park
- Ashburnham Memorial Park
- GreenUP Ecology Park
- Burnham Point Park
- John Taylor Memorial Park
- Collison Park
- Stocker Park
- Inverlea Park
- Edmison Heights Park
- Pioneer Memorial Park
- Roland Glover Park
- Barnardo Park
- Riverview Park & Zoo
- Turner Park
- Golfview Heights Park
- Brinton Carpet Park
- Confederation Square
- Manor Heights Park
- Wedgewood Park
- Simcoe & Bethune Park
- Millennium Park
- Kinsmen Park
- Morrow Park
- Newhall Park
- Whitefield Park
- Hastings Park
- King Edward Park
- Stenson Park
- Roper Park
- Sandalwood Park
- Dominion Park
- Dixon Park
Libraries
Places to Visit in Peterborough
Museums
- Peterborough Museum and Archives
- Art Gallery of Peterborough
- Peterborough Lift Lock Visitors Centre
- Canadian Canoe Museum
- Hutchinson House
- Canadian Canoe Museum
Attractions
Historic Sites
- Cenotaph
- Wall Of Honour
- The Cathedral of St. Peter-in-Chains
- The Peterborough Lift Locks
- Trent University
- Thomas J. Bata Library
- Faryon Bridge
- Citizens War Memorial
- UN: Our Hope For Mankind
- Peterborough Armoury
- Cox Terrace
Theatres
Green Spaces in Peterborough
| Name | Type | Approx. Area |
|---|---|---|
| Union Street Park | Parks | 0.2 ha |
| Victoria Park | Parks | 1.5 ha |
| Humber Park | Parks | 0.2 ha |
| Eastgate Memorial Park | Parks | 4.1 ha |
| Rogers Cove | Parks | 3.5 ha |
| Chelsea Gardens | Parks | 1.8 ha |
| Beavermead Park | Parks | 17.4 ha |
| Rideau Park | Parks | 0.2 ha |
| Ashburnham Memorial Park | Parks | 21.3 ha |
| GreenUP Ecology Park | Parks | 2.3 ha |
| Burnham Point Park | Parks | 1.8 ha |
| John Taylor Memorial Park | Parks | 0.4 ha |
| Collison Park | Parks | 0.5 ha |
| Stocker Park | Parks | 0.2 ha |
| Inverlea Park | Parks | 2.9 ha |
| Edmison Heights Park | Parks | 0.2 ha |
| Pioneer Memorial Park | Parks | 1.5 ha |
| Roland Glover Park | Parks | 1.0 ha |
| Barnardo Park | Parks | 1.2 ha |
| Riverview Park & Zoo | Parks | 20.4 ha |
Areas are approximate, calculated from OpenStreetMap boundary data.
Nearest Cities to Peterborough
- Kawartha Lakes 34.1 km away · 79,247 people
- Oshawa 62.7 km away · 175,383 people
- Quinte West 63.7 km away · 46,560 people
- Belleville 76.7 km away · 55,071 people
- Pickering 80.7 km away · 99,186 people
- Prince Edward County 90.8 km away · 25,704 people
- Orillia 93.3 km away · 33,411 people
- Markham 95.4 km away · 338,503 people
Methodology
- Data vintage: Reference date was Census Day, May 11, 2021. Statistics Canada released this profile in stages starting February 9, 2022, with later characteristics added through the remainder of 2022.
- Rounding & suppression: To protect respondent confidentiality, Statistics Canada randomly rounds every count shown here, and withholds some characteristics entirely for areas with very small populations. This is why a small number of figures on this page may show as unavailable for smaller places — it reflects a StatCan privacy rule, not missing data on our end.
- Next update: These are the most recent figures available. Canada's next census is scheduled for May 2026, with results expected to begin release in 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions about Peterborough
What is the population of Peterborough?
According to the 2021 Statistics Canada Census, Peterborough has a population of 83,651 people, making it the 30th city in Ontario. The population increased moderately from 81,032 in 2016, an increase of 2,619 people or 3.23%. The city has a population density of 1,291.8 people per km² across a land area of 64.76 km². The 2026 Census results are expected from Statistics Canada beginning February 2027.
Is the population of Peterborough growing?
Peterborough's population grew by 3.23% between the 2016 and 2021 censuses — from 81,032 to 83,651 people, a gain of 2,619 residents. This modest growth reflects patterns seen in many other Ontario cities during this period. The median age of 43.20 years suggests a mature, established community. Official 2026 Census data, which will confirm whether this trend continued, is expected from Statistics Canada in February 2027.
What is the population density of Peterborough?
Peterborough has a population density of approximately 1,291.80 people per square kilometre.
How large is Peterborough?
Peterborough covers a land area of approximately 64.76 km².
What is the median age in Peterborough?
The median age of the population in Peterborough is 43.20 years.
What is the median household income in Peterborough?
The median household income in Peterborough is $71,500, based on 2020 data.
What percentage of families in Peterborough are one-parent families?
One-parent families make up 20.7% of census families in Peterborough, according to the 2021 Census.
Are there many multigenerational households in Peterborough?
Multigenerational households make up 2.4% of all households in Peterborough, per the 2021 Census.
Why isn't 2026 census data for Peterborough available yet?
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.