West Lincoln, Ontario — Population & Demographics (2026)
Data source: Statistics Canada, 2021 Census of Population — View the official West Lincoln census dataset on Statistics Canada
- Population (2021)
- 15,454
- +6.6% since 2016
- Density
- 39.9
- people per km²
- Land area
- 387
- km²
- Median age
- 40.8
- years
- Median household income
- $106,000
- 2020, before tax
- Unemployment rate
- 8.3%
- 2021 Census
This article shows the demographic data and statistics of West Lincoln. It is a town in Canada that encompasses a land area of 387.02 km2. The town has a population density of 39.90 people per km2.
We highlight the West Lincoln town's various population characteristics. From gender, age distribution, ethnicity, household and dwelling, and income to spoken languages, occupation, and religion.
West Lincoln on the Map
- Points of interest (29)
- Places to visit (2)
- Green spaces (11)
West Lincoln location on the map. View in Google Maps
Population Characteristics
According to the latest census, West Lincoln has a population of around 15,454 people. The town's population is in increased. Between 2016 and 2021, the population of West Lincoln has increased by ▲ 6.58%.
| Population in 2016 | Population in 2021 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 14,500 | 15,454 | +6.58% |
2026 Population Projection
Based on the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.28% observed between the 2016 and 2021 censuses, West Lincoln's population is projected to reach approximately 16,471 people by 2026, with a projected population density of around 42.56 people per km².
| Population in 2021 | Projected Population in 2026 | Projected Density in 2026 (per km²) |
|---|---|---|
| 15,454 | 16,471 | 42.56 |
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.
West Lincoln Population Trend & Context
West Lincoln is the 97th-largest town in Ontario, with a 2021 census population of 15,454 — an increase of 954 (▲ 6.58%) people from the 14,500 recorded in 2016.
The town's population has grown steadily over this period, reflecting broader growth trends among Ontario towns. The town's median age of 40.8 years closely mirrors the national median of 41.9, suggesting a demographic profile in line with the Canadian average.
How does West Lincoln compare to other Ontario towns?
- 95th Greater Napanee 16,879
- 96th Saugeen Shores 15,908
- 97th West Lincoln This town 15,454
- 98th Kenora 14,967
- 99th Clearview 14,814
Population By Genders
The male population of West Lincoln is around 7,795 while the female population is around 7,665.
Of the 15,454 total population in West Lincoln, the largest gender is male with around 7,795 male within the population.
| Male | Female | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 7,795 | 7,665 | +1.67% |
Is West Lincoln a Good Place to Live?
Based on 2021 Statistics Canada Census data, here's how West Lincoln 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.
West Lincoln Population Compared to Ontario
Ontario's population in 2021 was 14,223,942, spread across the area. Here's how West Lincoln compares to the town's key indicators:
| Indicator | West Lincoln | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Median household income | $106,000 | $91,000 |
| Unemployment rate | 8.3% | 12.2% |
| Median age | 40.8 | 41.6 |
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 15.5% | 33.4% |
| Immigrants (%) | 10.5% | 30.0% |
Population by Age Characteristics
West Lincoln has an aging population. The majority of the population is people aged 55 to 59 years old, accounting for 7.60% of the total population. The town median age is 40.80.
| Data | Male | Female | Difference | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 55 to 59 years | 590 7.60% | 580 7.60% | 1.69% | 1,170 7.60% |
| 60 to 64 years | 575 7.40% | 585 7.60% | 1.71% | 1,155 7.50% |
| 5 to 9 years | 590 7.60% | 515 6.70% | 12.71% | 1,110 7.20% |
| 10 to 14 years | 540 6.90% | 515 6.70% | 4.63% | 1,050 6.80% |
| 15 to 19 years | 490 6.30% | 495 6.50% | 1.01% | 985 6.40% |
| 50 to 54 years | 490 6.30% | 495 6.50% | 1.01% | 985 6.40% |
| 45 to 49 years | 515 6.60% | 465 6.10% | 9.71% | 975 6.30% |
| 0 to 4 years | 485 6.20% | 480 6.30% | 1.03% | 965 6.20% |
| 35 to 39 years | 470 6.00% | 470 6.10% | 0.00% | 945 6.10% |
| 30 to 34 years | 450 5.80% | 475 6.20% | 5.26% | 920 6.00% |
| 65 to 69 years | 465 6.00% | 445 5.80% | 4.30% | 910 5.90% |
| 40 to 44 years | 415 5.30% | 440 5.70% | 5.68% | 860 5.60% |
| 20 to 24 years | 455 5.80% | 400 5.20% | 12.09% | 855 5.50% |
| 70 to 74 years | 405 5.20% | 390 5.10% | 3.70% | 800 5.20% |
| 25 to 29 years | 400 5.10% | 395 5.20% | 1.25% | 795 5.10% |
| 75 to 79 years | 245 3.10% | 250 3.30% | 2.00% | 500 3.20% |
| 80 to 84 years | 125 1.60% | 160 2.10% | 21.88% | 285 1.80% |
| 85 years and over | 90 1.20% | 110 1.40% | 18.18% | 205 1.30% |
| 85 to 89 years | 70 0.90% | 80 1.00% | 12.50% | 150 1.00% |
Broader Age Groups
If the town'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, 0 to 14 years and 65 years and over, account for 20.20% and 17.40%, respectively.
If we look at the population data from the broader age groups, we can see that most people in West Lincoln are within the 15 to 64 years age group.
| Data | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 to 64 years | 62.20% | 62.60% | 62.40% |
| 0 to 14 years | 20.70% | 19.70% | 20.20% |
| 65 years and over | 17.10% | 17.70% | 17.40% |
Explore West Lincoln Through Videos
Population of West Lincoln by Ethnicity and Origin
The population of West Lincoln is quite diverse, which contributes to the town's vibrant cultural landscape. West Lincoln is inclusive and accepts various ethnic groups with open arms. Furthermore, the town appreciates the unique contributions that each ethnicity brings.
The top 5 ethnicities and origins in West Lincoln are English, which accounts for 27.46% of the total population, followed by Dutch (21.06%), Scottish (18.24%), Canadian (16.75%), and Irish (14.80%).
Other ethnicities and origins in West Lincoln include German, Italian, French, British Isles, and Polish.
| Ethnicity and Origin | Male | Female | Percentage in Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | 26.22% | 28.76% | 27.46% |
| Dutch | 21.59% | 20.52% | 21.06% |
| Scottish | 18.17% | 18.30% | 18.24% |
| Canadian | 17.01% | 16.34% | 16.75% |
| Irish | 13.66% | 15.95% | 14.80% |
| German | 10.89% | 12.68% | 11.78% |
| Italian | 9.09% | 8.82% | 8.96% |
| French | 6.06% | 7.78% | 6.88% |
| British Isles | 5.67% | 6.08% | 5.84% |
| Polish | 4.70% | 3.86% | 4.28% |
Indigenous Identity in West Lincoln
About 2.37% of West Lincoln's population (365 people) identify with an Indigenous identity, compared to 97.63% who report a non-Indigenous identity.
Of the Indigenous population, 55 people (0.40% of the total population) hold Registered or Treaty Indian status.
Immigration Profile
Immigration patterns vary a great deal from one area to another, which makes this data one of the more distinctive parts of West Lincoln's population profile.
About 10.5% of West Lincoln's population are immigrants (1,610 people).
The top countries of origin for West Lincoln's immigrant population are United Kingdom (370), Netherlands (305), Portugal (95), Poland (70), Croatia (65).
| Country of Birth | Population |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 370 |
| Netherlands | 305 |
| Portugal | 95 |
| Poland | 70 |
| Croatia | 65 |
98.1% of West Lincoln's residents (15,105 people) are Canadian citizens, and 2.0% are not.
By generation status, 11.2% of residents are first generation (born outside Canada), 21.3% are second generation, and 67.6% are third generation or more.
Household and Dwelling Characteristics
About 4,430 of West Lincoln's population live in a single-detached house. In addition, most of them are living in 2 persons household.
Household Size
About 17.65% of the population lives in 2 persons households. 3 persons households ranked second, accounting for 8.65% of the population. 4 persons, 1 person, and 5 or more persons households account for 8.45%, 7.80%, and 7.40%, respectively.
| Number of Person(s) in Household | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 2 persons | 1,870 | 17.65% |
| 3 persons | 915 | 8.65% |
| 4 persons | 895 | 8.45% |
| 1 person | 825 | 7.80% |
| 5 or more persons | 785 | 7.40% |
Dwelling & Housing Detail
Of the 5,295 occupied private dwellings in West Lincoln, 89.9% are owner-occupied (4,760) and 10.1% are rented (535). The median value of owned dwellings is $700,000 (average $768,000).
Period of Construction
19.4% of West Lincoln's occupied private dwellings were built in 1960 or before, while 9.0% were built between 2016 and 2021.
Family and Household Structure in West Lincoln
Of census families in West Lincoln, 89.1% are couple families and 10.9% are one-parent families. The average census family has 3.1 people.
15.6% of households in West Lincoln are one-person households, 67.4% are couple-family households, 6.3% are one-parent-family households, and 4.2% are multigenerational households.
| Household Type | Households | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| One-person households | 825 | 15.6% |
| Couple-family households | 3,570 | 67.4% |
| One-parent-family households | 335 | 6.3% |
| Multigenerational households | 225 | 4.2% |
Income in West Lincoln
Analyzing income distribution in West Lincoln can help us better understand its socioeconomic dynamics.
Per Capita Income
According to 2020 data, the median personal income within West Lincoln is $43,600.
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 town's economic performance, spread of income across individuals, quality of life, as well as disparities within its borders.
Most of West Lincoln population or around 1,890 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 1,885 and 1,525 people, respectively.
Household Income
The West Lincoln's median household income is $106,000, according to 2020 data.
Above national average West Lincoln's median household income is 22,000 dollars above the Canadian national median of $84,000 (2020 data, 2021 Census).
The data provides important insights into the town'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 town's income distribution, disparities, and trends.
Education Levels in West Lincoln
This data sheds light on the distribution of West Lincoln 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.
61.70% or most of the West Lincoln population has a Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree. 30.20% of the population has a High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate, and 8.20% has a No certificate, diploma or degree. (Individual figures may not sum to exactly 100% due to Statistics Canada's random rounding of small-area 25% sample data.)
| Degree | Men | Women | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree | 2,270 | 2,535 | 4,805 | 61.70% |
| High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate | 1,280 | 1,070 | 2,350 | 30.20% |
| No certificate, diploma or degree | 380 | 250 | 635 | 8.20% |
Below national average 17.3% of West Lincoln's population has a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 32.9% (Canada, 2021 Census).
Employment in West Lincoln
This dataset provides a snapshot of employment trends in West Lincoln. It encompasses a wide range of sectors, industries, as well as job categories.
The data shows that the unemployment rate in West Lincoln is at 8.30% which is very high.
| Status | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Employment rate | 59.76% |
| Unemployment rate | 8.30% |
Work Activity During the Reference Year
Of the population aged 15 and over in West Lincoln, 37.0% worked full year full time in the reference year, 29.3% worked part year and/or part time, and 33.7% did not work.
| Work Activity | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Worked full year full time | 4,550 | 37.0% |
| Worked part year and/or part time | 3,595 | 29.3% |
| Did not work | 4,145 | 33.7% |
Working as an Employee
The table shows the data on the total number of individuals in the town who work as an employee. The majority of West Lincoln's population (around 71.90%) are working permanent position as an employee.
Self-employed
In the town, there are 835 men and 410 women working as self-employed individuals, bringing the total number to 1,250.
| Status | Men | Women | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-employed | 835 | 410 | 1,250 |
Employment Industry Sectors
The West Lincoln industry employment sector census data offers insights into the region's economic landscape. The distribution of employment in West Lincoln is categorized and quantified, which reveals the region's economic composition.
West Lincoln has a wide range of industries. Most of its population (13%) works in the manufacturing sector. The Construction sector comes second at 12%, followed by Health care and social assistance at 11%.
| Industry | Men | Women | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing | 750 | 295 | 13% |
| Construction | 830 | 135 | 12% |
| Health care and social assistance | 75 | 785 | 11% |
| Retail trade | 360 | 450 | 10% |
| Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting | 315 | 230 | 7% |
| Educational services | 105 | 365 | 6% |
| Wholesale trade | 310 | 130 | 5% |
| Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services | 245 | 135 | 5% |
| Other services (except public administration) | 235 | 140 | 5% |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 170 | 210 | 5% |
| Transportation and warehousing | 225 | 130 | 4% |
| Public administration | 195 | 145 | 4% |
| Accommodation and food services | 100 | 185 | 4% |
| Finance and insurance | 75 | 160 | 3% |
| Real estate and rental and leasing | 45 | 60 | 1% |
| Arts, entertainment and recreation | 45 | 60 | 1% |
| Information and cultural industries | 70 | 30 | 1% |
| Utilities | 45 | 30 | 1% |
| Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction | 20 | 0 | 0% |
| Management of companies and enterprises | 0 | 0 | 0% |
Labour Market Snapshot
A quick snapshot of where West Lincoln residents work — the leading industry sectors employing them, and the broad occupation categories they work in.
Top employer sectors in West Lincoln: Manufacturing (13%), Construction (12%), Health care and social assistance (11%)
Top occupation categories in West Lincoln: Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupations (24%), Sales and service 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 town. 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 | 2,420 | 2,375 | 4,795 | 65.30% |
| Worked at home | 715 | 820 | 1,530 | 20.80% |
| No fixed workplace address | 805 | 195 | 1,000 | 13.60% |
| Worked outside Canada | 20 | 0 | 20 | 0.30% |
Commuting
The data sheds light on how West Lincoln 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 West Lincoln residents and sustainable urban planning.
Commuting Duration
This data reveals the average time that the residents of West Lincoln spend traveling to their workplaces. It also sheds light on the efficiency of the town's public transit systems, and road networks, as well as the accessibility of the town.
| Duration | Percentage |
|---|---|
| 15 to 29 minutes | 29.30% |
| 30 to 44 minutes | 28.90% |
| Less than 15 minutes | 23.70% |
| 45 to 59 minutes | 9.80% |
| 60 minutes and over | 8.30% |
Marital Status
The statistics on marital status in West Lincoln 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 town's social fabric. We can gain insights into West Lincoln's changing preferences and norms by examining the trends in marital status.
Language Spoken
The data below highlights town'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 West Lincoln. About 15,255 people living in the town speak English, 115 people speak French, 45 people speak Neither English nor French language, and 20 people speak English and French language.
| Language | Population |
|---|---|
| English | 15,255 |
| French | 115 |
| Neither English nor French | 45 |
| English and French | 20 |
Knowledge of Official Languages
About 3.6% of West Lincoln's population is bilingual, knowing both English and French. 96.2% know English only, 0.0% know French only, and 0.3% know neither official language.
| Knowledge of Official Languages | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| English only | 14,835 | 96.2% |
| French only | 0 | 0.0% |
| English and French | 550 | 3.6% |
| Neither English nor French | 45 | 0.3% |
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 | 90.0% | 97.0% |
| Non-official languages | 8.1% | 2.2% |
| French | 0.8% | 0.1% |
Religion
West Lincoln is predominantly Christian. About 9,895 of its population is Christian (4,825 males and 5,075 females).
The second largest religion in the town is Muslim with 0.4% of the population adhering to the religion. There are also Buddhist and Jewish, both represent 0.3% and 0.2% of the population, while Hindu represent 0.1% of the population.
| Religion | Population |
|---|---|
| Christian | 64.2% |
| Islam | 0.4% |
| Buddhist | 0.3% |
| Jewish | 0.2% |
| Hindu | 0.1% |
| Sikh | 0.0% |
Points of Interest in West Lincoln
Schools
- Smithville Public School
- Robert Land Academy
- St. Martin Catholic Elementary School
- John Calvin School
- Smithville Christian High School
- St. Mark Catholic Elementary School
- Twenty Valley Public School
- Gainsborough Central Public School
- Caistor Central Public School
- Eben-ezer Christian School
Parks
- Hank MacDonald Park
- Rittenhouse Park
- Ashby Drive Park
- Elizabeth Street Park
- Kinsmen Park
- Beamsville Lions Park
- Alma Acres Park
- Angelina Macri Prokich Park
- Rock Street Park
- Southward Park
- Vineland Neighbourhood Park
- Highland Parkette
Libraries
- West Lincoln Public Library - Smithville Branch
- West Lincoln Public Library - Wellandport Branch
- Lincoln Pelham Public Library - Rittenhouse Branch
- West Lincoln Public Library - Caistorville Branch
Community Centres
Places to Visit in West Lincoln
Museums
Attractions
Green Spaces in West Lincoln
| Name | Type | Approx. Area |
|---|---|---|
| Hank MacDonald Park | Parks | 0.9 ha |
| Rittenhouse Park | Parks | 0.3 ha |
| Ashby Drive Park | Parks | 0.9 ha |
| Elizabeth Street Park | Parks | 0.2 ha |
| Kinsmen Park | Parks | 1.6 ha |
| Beamsville Lions Park | Parks | 15.4 ha |
| Alma Acres Park | Parks | 1.1 ha |
| Angelina Macri Prokich Park | Parks | 3.6 ha |
| Rock Street Park | Parks | 2.8 ha |
| Southward Park | Parks | 33.0 ha |
| Balls Falls Conservation Area | Nature Reserves | 55.2 ha |
Areas are approximate, calculated from OpenStreetMap boundary data.
Nearest Towns to West Lincoln
- Grimsby 13.4 km away · 28,883 people
- Lincoln 16.6 km away · 25,719 people
- Wainfleet 22.0 km away · 6,887 people
- Pelham 23.2 km away · 18,192 people
- Hilton 39.3 km away · 382 people
- Oakville 42.5 km away · 213,759 people
- Niagara-on-the-Lake 45.0 km away · 19,088 people
- Milton 55.3 km away · 132,979 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 West Lincoln
What is the population of West Lincoln?
According to the 2021 Statistics Canada Census, West Lincoln has a population of 15,454 people, making it the 97th town in Ontario. The population increased significantly from 14,500 in 2016, an increase of 954 people or 6.58%. The town has a population density of 39.9 people per km² across a land area of 387.02 km². The 2026 Census results are expected from Statistics Canada beginning February 2027.
Is the population of West Lincoln growing?
West Lincoln's population grew by 6.58% between the 2016 and 2021 censuses — from 14,500 to 15,454 people, a gain of 954 residents. This growth is above average compared to many other Ontario towns during this period. The median age of 40.80 years suggests a mature, established community. The relatively low proportion of one-person households (15.6%) points to a family-oriented 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 West Lincoln?
West Lincoln has a population density of approximately 39.90 people per square kilometre.
How large is West Lincoln?
West Lincoln covers a land area of approximately 387.02 km².
What is the median age in West Lincoln?
The median age of the population in West Lincoln is 40.80 years.
What is the largest ethnic group in West Lincoln?
The largest ethnic or cultural origin group in West Lincoln is English.
What is the median household income in West Lincoln?
The median household income in West Lincoln is $106,000, based on 2020 data.
What is the most spoken language in West Lincoln?
English is the most common first official language spoken in West Lincoln.
What is the main religion in West Lincoln?
Christian is the predominant religion in West Lincoln.
What percentage of West Lincoln's population is Indigenous?
According to the 2021 Census, 2.4% of West Lincoln's population identifies with an Indigenous identity.
What percentage of West Lincoln residents are Canadian citizens?
98.1% of West Lincoln's residents are Canadian citizens, based on 2021 Census data.
What percentage of families in West Lincoln are one-parent families?
One-parent families make up 11.0% of census families in West Lincoln, according to the 2021 Census.
Are there many multigenerational households in West Lincoln?
Multigenerational households make up 4.2% of all households in West Lincoln, per the 2021 Census.
What percentage of West Lincoln's population is bilingual in English and French?
3.6% of West Lincoln's population knows both English and French, based on 2021 Census data on knowledge of official languages.
What percentage of West Lincoln's workforce works full-time year-round?
Of the population aged 15 and over in West Lincoln, 37.0% worked full year full time in the 2021 Census reference year.
Why isn't 2026 census data for West Lincoln 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.