Population Characteristics
According to the latest census, Grande-Riviere has a population of around 3,384 people. The town's population is in decreased. Between 2016 and 2021, the population of Grande-Riviere has decreased by ▼ -0.70%.
| Population in 2016 | Population in 2021 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 3,408 | 3,384 | --0.70% |
2026 Population Projection
Grande-Riviere's population declined between the 2016 and 2021 censuses, so a 2026 growth projection is not shown. The most recent confirmed figure remains the 3,384 people recorded in the 2021 census.
Grande-Riviere Population Trend & Context
Grande-Riviere had a 2021 census population of 3,384 — a decline of 24 (▼ 0.70%) people from the 3,408 recorded in 2016.
The town's population has remained relatively stable over this period, reflecting broader trends in mid-sized Quebec towns. The town's median age of 55.6 years — above the national median of 41.9 — suggests a mature, established community rather than a rapidly growing one.
Population By Genders
The male population of Grande-Riviere is around 1,645 while the female population is around 1,740.
Of the 3,384 total population in Grande-Riviere, the largest gender is female with around 1,740 female within the population.
| Male | Female | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 1,645 | 1,740 | -5.46% |
Is Grande-Riviere a Good Place to Live?
Based on 2021 Statistics Canada Census data, here's how Grande-Riviere compares across key quality-of-life indicators — measured against Quebec, 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.
Grande-Riviere Population Compared to Quebec
Quebec's population in 2021 was 8,501,833, spread across the area. Here's how Grande-Riviere compares to the town's key indicators:
| Indicator | Grande-Riviere | Quebec |
|---|---|---|
| Median household income | $60,400 | $72,500 |
| Unemployment rate | 12.0% | 7.6% |
| Median age | 55.6 | 43.2 |
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 7.6% | 26.5% |
| Immigrants (%) | 2.2% | 14.6% |
Population by Age Characteristics
Grande-Riviere has an aging population. The majority of the population is people aged 60 to 64 years old, accounting for 10.60% of the total population. The town median age is 55.60.
| Data | Male | Female | Difference | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60 to 64 years | 175 10.60% | 185 10.60% | 5.41% | 360 10.60% |
| 55 to 59 years | 165 10.00% | 180 10.30% | 8.33% | 345 10.20% |
| 65 to 69 years | 165 10.00% | 170 9.80% | 2.94% | 335 9.90% |
| 70 to 74 years | 140 8.50% | 140 8.00% | 0.00% | 280 8.30% |
| 50 to 54 years | 125 7.60% | 130 7.50% | 3.85% | 255 7.50% |
| 45 to 49 years | 100 6.10% | 125 7.20% | 20.00% | 225 6.60% |
| 75 to 79 years | 90 5.50% | 95 5.50% | 5.26% | 180 5.30% |
| 40 to 44 years | 75 4.60% | 85 4.90% | 11.76% | 165 4.90% |
| 10 to 14 years | 85 5.20% | 70 4.00% | 17.65% | 155 4.60% |
| 30 to 34 years | 70 4.30% | 80 4.60% | 12.50% | 145 4.30% |
| 35 to 39 years | 80 4.90% | 65 3.70% | 18.75% | 145 4.30% |
| 20 to 24 years | 75 4.60% | 60 3.40% | 20.00% | 130 3.80% |
| 15 to 19 years | 65 4.00% | 60 3.40% | 7.69% | 125 3.70% |
| 80 to 84 years | 50 3.00% | 70 4.00% | 28.57% | 120 3.50% |
| 5 to 9 years | 60 3.60% | 60 3.40% | 0.00% | 115 3.40% |
| 25 to 29 years | 50 3.00% | 60 3.40% | 16.67% | 110 3.20% |
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 59.20% of the population. The other age groups, 65 years and over and 0 to 14 years, account for 29.80% and 10.80%, respectively.
If we look at the population data from the broader age groups, we can see that most people in Grande-Riviere are within the 15 to 64 years age group.
| Data | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 to 64 years | 59.60% | 58.90% | 59.20% |
| 65 years and over | 28.90% | 31.00% | 29.80% |
| 0 to 14 years | 11.60% | 10.10% | 10.80% |
Population of Grande-Riviere by Ethnicity and Origin
The population of Grande-Riviere is quite diverse, which contributes to the town's vibrant cultural landscape. Grande-Riviere 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 Grande-Riviere are Canadian, which accounts for 38.70% of the total population, followed by French (18.02%), Gaspesian (5.76%), Irish (5.02%), and French Canadian (4.73%).
Other ethnicities and origins in Grande-Riviere include First Nations (North American Indian), Caucasian (White), Mi'kmaq, Acadian, and English.
| Ethnicity and Origin | Male | Female | Percentage in Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canadian | 36.62% | 40.06% | 38.70% |
| French | 17.23% | 18.75% | 18.02% |
| Gaspesian | 5.85% | 5.40% | 5.76% |
| Irish | 6.15% | 3.69% | 5.02% |
| French Canadian | 4.92% | 4.55% | 4.73% |
| First Nations (North American Indian) | 2.46% | 3.13% | 2.66% |
| Caucasian (White) | 2.15% | 2.84% | 2.51% |
| Mi'kmaq | 0.92% | 2.27% | 1.62% |
| Acadian | 0.92% | 1.70% | 1.48% |
| English | 0.92% | 1.42% | 1.18% |
Indigenous Identity in Grande-Riviere
About 7.54% of Grande-Riviere's population (255 people) identify with an Indigenous identity, compared to 92.46% who report a non-Indigenous identity.
Of the Indigenous population, 20 people (0.60% 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 Grande-Riviere's population profile.
About 2.2% of Grande-Riviere's population are immigrants (75 people).
The top countries of origin for Grande-Riviere's immigrant population are France (10), Brazil (0), Colombia (0), El Salvador (0), Guyana (0).
| Country of Birth | Population |
|---|---|
| France | 10 |
| Brazil | 0 |
| Colombia | 0 |
| El Salvador | 0 |
| Guyana | 0 |
99.0% of Grande-Riviere's residents (3,345 people) are Canadian citizens, and 1.0% are not.
By generation status, 2.7% of residents are first generation (born outside Canada), 0.9% are second generation, and 96.5% are third generation or more.
Household and Dwelling Characteristics
About 1,195 of Grande-Riviere's population live in a single-detached house. In addition, most of them are living in 1 person household.
Household Size
About 18.60% of the population lives in 1 person households. 2 persons households ranked second, accounting for 18.45% of the population. 3 persons, 4 persons, and 5 or more persons households account for 7.75%, 3.65%, and 1.85%, respectively.
| Number of Person(s) in Household | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | 610 | 18.60% |
| 2 persons | 605 | 18.45% |
| 3 persons | 255 | 7.75% |
| 4 persons | 120 | 3.65% |
| 5 or more persons | 60 | 1.85% |
Family and Household Structure in Grande-Riviere
Of census families in Grande-Riviere, 75.3% are couple families and 24.7% are one-parent families. The average census family has 2.5 people.
37.1% of households in Grande-Riviere are one-person households, 40.1% are couple-family households, 12.2% are one-parent-family households, and 2.1% are multigenerational households.
| Household Type | Households | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| One-person households | 610 | 37.1% |
| Couple-family households | 660 | 40.1% |
| One-parent-family households | 200 | 12.2% |
| Multigenerational households | 35 | 2.1% |
Income in Grande-Riviere
Analyzing income distribution in Grande-Riviere can help us better understand its socioeconomic dynamics.
Per Capita Income
According to 2020 data, the median personal income within Grande-Riviere is $35,600.
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 Grande-Riviere population or around 750 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 370 and 210 people, respectively.
Household Income
The Grande-Riviere's median household income is $60,400, according to 2020 data.
Below national average Grande-Riviere's median household income is 23,600 dollars below 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 Grande-Riviere
This data sheds light on the distribution of Grande-Riviere 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.
47.10% or most of the Grande-Riviere population has a Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree. 31.50% of the population has a No certificate, diploma or degree, and 21.40% has a High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate. (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 | 375 | 445 | 815 | 47.10% |
| No certificate, diploma or degree | 310 | 235 | 545 | 31.50% |
| High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate | 155 | 215 | 370 | 21.40% |
Below national average 7.8% of Grande-Riviere's population has a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 32.9% (Canada, 2021 Census).
Employment in Grande-Riviere
This dataset provides a snapshot of employment trends in Grande-Riviere. It encompasses a wide range of sectors, industries, as well as job categories.
The data shows that the unemployment rate in Grande-Riviere is at 12.01% which is very high.
| Status | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Employment rate | 44.43% |
| Unemployment rate | 12.01% |
Work Activity During the Reference Year
Of the population aged 15 and over in Grande-Riviere, 20.8% worked full year full time in the reference year, 33.6% worked part year and/or part time, and 45.7% did not work.
| Work Activity | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Worked full year full time | 635 | 20.8% |
| Worked part year and/or part time | 1,025 | 33.6% |
| Did not work | 1,395 | 45.7% |
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 Grande-Riviere's population (around 51.30%) are working permanent position as an employee.
Self-employed
In the town, there are 90 men and 80 women working as self-employed individuals, bringing the total number to 170.
| Status | Men | Women | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-employed | 90 | 80 | 170 |
Employment Industry Sectors
The Grande-Riviere industry employment sector census data offers insights into the region's economic landscape. The distribution of employment in Grande-Riviere is categorized and quantified, which reveals the region's economic composition.
Grande-Riviere has a wide range of industries. Most of its population (19%) works in the manufacturing sector. The Retail trade sector comes second at 17%, followed by Health care and social assistance at 16%.
| Industry | Men | Women | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing | 190 | 105 | 19% |
| Retail trade | 125 | 130 | 17% |
| Health care and social assistance | 65 | 185 | 16% |
| Accommodation and food services | 35 | 75 | 8% |
| Public administration | 55 | 60 | 8% |
| Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting | 105 | 10 | 7% |
| Other services (except public administration) | 30 | 50 | 6% |
| Construction | 60 | 0 | 4% |
| Educational services | 20 | 40 | 4% |
| Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services | 30 | 20 | 4% |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 10 | 15 | 2% |
| Finance and insurance | 0 | 20 | 1% |
| Wholesale trade | 15 | 0 | 1% |
| Transportation and warehousing | 15 | 0 | 1% |
| Arts, entertainment and recreation | 10 | 0 | 1% |
| Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction | 0 | 0 | 0% |
| Utilities | 0 | 0 | 0% |
| Information and cultural industries | 0 | 0 | 0% |
| Real estate and rental and leasing | 0 | 0 | 0% |
| Management of companies and enterprises | 0 | 0 | 0% |
Labour Market Snapshot
A quick snapshot of where Grande-Riviere residents work — the leading industry sectors employing them, and the broad occupation categories they work in.
Top employer sectors in Grande-Riviere: Manufacturing (19%), Retail trade (17%), Health care and social assistance (16%)
Top occupation categories in Grande-Riviere: Sales and service occupations (30%), Occupations in manufacturing and utilities (16%), Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupations (12%)
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 | 525 | 535 | 1,060 | 78.20% |
| No fixed workplace address | 155 | 40 | 195 | 14.40% |
| Worked at home | 40 | 65 | 105 | 7.70% |
| Worked outside Canada | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.00% |
Commuting
The data sheds light on how Grande-Riviere 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 Grande-Riviere residents and sustainable urban planning.
Commuting Duration
This data reveals the average time that the residents of Grande-Riviere 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 |
|---|---|
| Less than 15 minutes | 59.10% |
| 15 to 29 minutes | 31.30% |
| 60 minutes and over | 4.00% |
| 30 to 44 minutes | 3.60% |
| 45 to 59 minutes | 1.60% |
Marital Status
The statistics on marital status in Grande-Riviere 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 Grande-Riviere'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.
French is the most spoken official language in Grande-Riviere. About 3,335 people living in the town speak French, 45 people speak English, 5 people speak English and French language, and 5 people speak Neither English nor French language.
| Language | Population |
|---|---|
| French | 3,335 |
| English | 45 |
| English and French | 5 |
| Neither English nor French | 5 |
Knowledge of Official Languages
About 13.6% of Grande-Riviere's population is bilingual, knowing both English and French. 0.3% know English only, 86.1% know French only, and 0.1% know neither official language.
| Knowledge of Official Languages | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| English only | 10 | 0.3% |
| French only | 2,910 | 86.1% |
| English and French | 460 | 13.6% |
| Neither English nor French | 5 | 0.1% |
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 |
|---|---|---|
| French | 97.6% | 98.8% |
| English | 1.2% | 0.6% |
| Non-official languages | 0.9% | 0.1% |
Religion
Grande-Riviere is predominantly Christian. About 3,200 of its population is Christian (1,535 males and 1,660 females).
The second largest religion in the town is Buddhist with 0.0% of the population adhering to the religion. There are also Hindu and Jewish, both represent 0.0% and 0.0% of the population, while Muslim represent 0.0% of the population.
| Religion | Population |
|---|---|
| Christian | 94.7% |
| Buddhist | 0.0% |
| Hindu | 0.0% |
| Jewish | 0.0% |
| Islam | 0.0% |
| Sikh | 0.0% |
Points of Interest in Grande-Riviere
Schools
Libraries
Community Centres
Places to Visit in Grande-Riviere
Attractions
Nearest Towns to Grande-Riviere
- Chandler 14.5 km · 7,490 people
- Perce 24.9 km · 3,095 people
- Hope Town 62.4 km · 334 people
- Paspebiac 69.3 km · 3,033 people
- Murdochville 96.4 km · 643 people
- New Richmond 104.7 km · 3,683 people
- Gaspe 118.2 km · 15,063 people
- Sainte-Anne-des-Monts 166.8 km · 6,121 people
Frequently Asked Questions about Grande-Riviere
According to the 2021 Statistics Canada Census, Grande-Riviere has a population of 3,384 people, making it the 174th town in Quebec. The population declined slightly from 3,408 in 2016, a decrease of 24 people or 0.70%. The town has a population density of 38.5 people per km² across a land area of 87.92 km². The 2026 Census results are expected from Statistics Canada beginning February 2027.
Grande-Riviere's population declined by 0.70% between the 2016 and 2021 censuses — from 3,408 to 3,384 people, a loss of 24 residents. This stability is characteristic of many mid-sized other Quebec towns during this period. The median age of 55.60 years suggests an aging population. The relatively high proportion of one-person households (37.2%) 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.
Grande-Riviere has a population density of approximately 38.50 people per square kilometre.
Grande-Riviere covers a land area of approximately 87.92 km².
The median age of the population in Grande-Riviere is 55.60 years.
The largest ethnic or cultural origin group in Grande-Riviere is Canadian.
The median household income in Grande-Riviere is $60,400, based on 2020 data.
French is the most common first official language spoken in Grande-Riviere.
Christian is the predominant religion in Grande-Riviere.
According to the 2021 Census, 7.5% of Grande-Riviere's population identifies with an Indigenous identity.
99.0% of Grande-Riviere's residents are Canadian citizens, based on 2021 Census data.
One-parent families make up 24.7% of census families in Grande-Riviere, according to the 2021 Census.
Multigenerational households make up 2.1% of all households in Grande-Riviere, per the 2021 Census.
13.6% of Grande-Riviere's population knows both English and French, based on 2021 Census data on knowledge of official languages.
Of the population aged 15 and over in Grande-Riviere, 20.8% worked full year full time in the 2021 Census reference year.
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.