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Biggest Cities in Canada 2024 – by Population

Biggest Cities in Canada by Population

As someone who has extensively studied and experienced the diverse landscape of Canada, I can share some insights into its unique structure and population distribution. Canada, a vast country, is organized into ten provinces and three territories. This division is essential for managing the different regions effectively.

The way cities are classified in Canada varies from one province to another. For instance, in Alberta, a place needs more than 10,000 residents to be considered a city, along with meeting certain land size requirements.

In contrast, British Columbia’s threshold for city status is a population of just 5,000. Quebec takes a different approach, using the term “villes” for urban areas, which doesn’t hinge on population size.

A significant portion of Canada’s population is concentrated in its cities. In fact, over 30 cities and their surrounding urban areas make up about two-thirds of the entire population.

As per 2011 census, which is a key source for understanding Canada’s demographic layout, there were 33 Census Metropolitan Areas and 114 census agglomerations, encompassing a total of 1,137 municipalities categorized as cities, towns, or villes.

Biggest Cities in Canada 2024 - by Population
Population of Cities in Canada 2024

Some of the largest cities, which I’ve had the opportunity to explore, include Toronto, with nearly 3 million residents, Montreal with almost 2 million, and Calgary, which boasts over 1 million people. Other major cities like Ottawa, dm, and Mississauga also contribute significantly to the population.

As of 2024, based on my latest research and observations, Canada has three cities with populations exceeding a million, 52 cities with residents numbering between 100,000 and 1 million, and 393 cities with populations ranging from 10,000 to 100,000. Toronto remains the largest city, home to 2.6 million people.

Key Takeaways

  • Canada’s population in 2024 is estimated to be approximately 39,566,248, with an annual growth rate of 2.7%, primarily driven by international migration.
  • Moncton, New Brunswick, is Canada’s fastest-growing city, experiencing a remarkable 5.3% increase in its metropolitan area population from July 2021 to July 2022.
  • The majority of Canadians reside in urban areas, with cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver being the largest and most densely populated.
  • Canada’s southern regions, particularly near the Canada-US border, are preferred due to milder climates and greater economic opportunities.
  • Most Canadian immigrants settle in major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, and Edmonton for better economic prospects and cultural diversity.
  • La Tuque, Quebec, is the largest Canadian city by area, covering around 28,099 square kilometers, while Saint-Pierre-de-l’Île-d’Orléans, Quebec, has the smallest population of just 251 residents.

CITY Population 2024
Toronto 2,903,000
Montreal 1,762,949
Calgary
1,640,000
Ottawa 1,112,129
Edmonton 1,410,899
Mississauga 668,549
Winnipeg 632,063
Vancouver 600,000
Brampton 593,638
Quebec 528,595
Hamilton 519,949
Laval 422,993
Surrey 394,976
Halifax 359,111
London 346,765
Markham 328,966
Vaughan 306,233
Okanagan 297,601
Victoria 289,625
Windsor 278,013
Gatineau 242,124
Kitchener 233,700
Longueuil 229,330
Burnaby 202,799
Ladner 200,000
Saskatoon 198,958
Richmond 198,309
Richmond Hill 195,022
Oakville 193,832
Burlington 183,314
Nepean 180,000
Regina 176,183
Oshawa 166,000
Greater Sudbury 157,857
Saguenay 143,692
Levis 143,414
Kelowna 142,146
Barrie 141,434
Abbotsford 141,397
Coquitlam 140,000
St. Catharines 133,113
Cambridge 129,920
Sherbrooke 129,447
Trois-Rivieres 119,693
Ajax 119,677
Guelph 115,760
Kingston 114,195
Terrebonne 111,575
Moncton 108,620
Thunder Bay 107,909
Sydney 105,968
Waterloo 104,986
Milton 101,715
Delta 101,668
Dartmouth 101,343
St. John’s 99,182
Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu 98,036
Pickering 91,771
Nanaimo 90,504
Kamloops 90,280
Kanata 90,000
Brantford 87,759
Repentigny 84,965
Newmarket 84,224
Maple Ridge 82,256
Niagara Falls 82,000
Peterborough 81,032
Willowdale 79,440
Saint-Laurent 77,391
Chilliwack 77,000
La Haute-Saint-Charles 74,070
Prince George 74,003
Red Deer 73,593
Saint-Leonard 73,423
Sarnia 72,125
Sherwood Park 70,618
Lethbridge 70,617
Brossard 69,575
Saint John 67,575
Notre-Dame-de-Grace 67,000
Fort McMurray 66,573
Caledon 66,502
White Rock 66,450
Sault Ste. Marie 66,313
Granby 66,222
Waterfront Communities-The Island 65,913
Medicine Hat 63,138
Norfolk County 60,847
Drummondville 59,489
New Westminster 58,549
Port Coquitlam 58,000
St. Albert 57,719
Aurora 55,445
Saint-Jerome 54,948
Jonquiere 54,842
Woburn 53,485
Fredericton 52,337
Welland 52,293
Belleville 50,716
Willowdale East 50,434
North Bay 50,396
Saint-Hyacinthe 50,326
Dollard-Des Ormeaux 48,930
Brandon 48,859
Cornwall 48,821
Vernon Lake 48,073
North Vancouver 48,000
West End 47,200
Rouge 46,496
Blainville 46,493
L’Amoreaux 43,993
Islington-City Centre West 43,965
Malvern 43,794
Quinte West 43,577
Chatham 43,550
Chateauguay 42,786
West Vancouver 42,694
Salaberry-de-Valleyfield 42,410
Charlottetown 42,402
Rimouski 42,240
Saint-Eustache 42,062
Timmins 41,788
Sorel-Tracy 41,629
Grande Prairie 41,462
Ancaster 40,557
Woodstock 40,404
Vernon 40,116
Boucherville 39,062
St. Thomas 38,909
Shawinigan 38,211
Dovercourt-Wallace Emerson-Junction 36,625
Spruce Grove 36,135
Rock Forest 35,500
Langford 35,342
Prince Albert 35,102
Downsview-Roding-CFB 35,052
Parkwoods-Donalda 34,805
Joliette 34,772
Mascouche 34,626
Mirabel 34,626
Victoriaville 34,426
Brant 34,415
Mimico 33,964
Moose Jaw 33,890
Penticton 33,761
Campbell River 33,430
West Humber-Clairville 33,312
Mission 33,261
Leamington 32,991
Mount Olive-Silverstone-Jamestown 32,954
Stratford 31,465
Lloydminster 31,400
Cote-Saint-Luc 31,395
Church-Yonge Corridor 31,340
Niagara 31,180
Saint-Georges 31,173
Orillia 31,166
Orangeville 30,734
Fort Erie 30,710
Annex 30,526
Glenfield-Jane Heights 30,491
Pointe-Claire 30,161
Bendale 29,960
North Cowichan 29,676
Mount Pleasant West 29,658
Alma 29,526
Agincourt North 29,113
Sainte-Julie 29,019
West Kelowna 28,793
Sept-Iles 28,534
Wexford/Maryvale 27,917
South Riverdale 27,876
Banbury-Don Mills 27,695
York University Heights 27,593
Port Moody 27,512
Tam O’Shanter-Sullivan 27,446
West Hill 27,392
Saint-Constant 27,359
Grimsby 27,314
Dieppe 27,304
Don Valley Village 27,051
Clairlea-Birchmount 26,984
Milliken 26,572
Boisbriand 26,483
Westminster-Branson 26,274
Cochrane 25,853
Bay Street Corridor 25,797
Vaudreuil-Dorion 25,789
Thetford-Mines 25,704
Walnut Grove 25,683
Courtenay 25,599
Val-d’Or 25,541
Prince Edward 25,496
Sainte-Therese 25,224
Stonegate-Queensway 25,051
Dorset Park 25,003
Fallingbrook 25,000
Airdrie 24,673
Steeles 24,623
Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville 24,388
Midland 24,353
East Gwillimbury 23,991
High Park-Swansea 23,925
Brockville 23,886
Newtonbrook West 23,831
Agincourt South-Malvern West 23,757
Langley 23,606
Rouyn-Noranda 23,504
La Prairie 23,357
Whitehorse 23,272
Bedford Park-Nortown 23,236
Tecumseh 23,229
Mount Pearl 23,120
Eglinton East 22,776
Chambly 22,608
Englemount-Lawrence 22,372
Birchcliffe-Cliffside 22,291
Rockcliffe-Smythe 22,246
Duncan 22,199
High Park North 22,162
Willowridge-Martingrove-Richview 22,156
Kingsview Village-The Westway 22,000
Flemingdon Park 21,933
South Parkdale 21,849
Collingwood 21,793
Black Creek 21,737
Tsawwassen 21,588
The Beaches 21,567
Baie-Comeau 21,536
Bayview Village 21,396
East End-Danforth 21,381
Lower Sackville 21,379
Owen Sound 21,341
Oakwood Village 21,210
Uxbridge 21,176
Thorncliffe Park 21,108
Keswick 21,000
Varennes 20,994
Rosedale-Moore Park 20,923
Clarence-Rockland 20,790
Port Alberni 20,712
Wasaga Beach 20,675
Moss Park 20,506
Westmount 20,494
Kirkland 20,491
Lindsay 20,354
Fort St. John 20,155
Cranbrook 20,047
Cole Harbour 20,000
Saint-Lazare 19,889
Huntsville 19,816
Yellowknife 19,569
Terrace 19,443
North Battleford 19,440
Beaconsfield 19,194
Dorval 18,980
Mont-Royal 18,933
Beloeil 18,927
Alliston 18,809
Thorold 18,801
Camrose 18,742
Corner Brook 18,693
O’Connor-Parkview 18,675
New Glasgow 18,665
North St.James Town 18,615
Eringate-Centennial-West Deane 18,588
Riviere-du-Loup 18,586
Pitt Meadows 18,573
Port Colborne 18,306
Cobourg 18,099
Oak Bay 18,015
Weston 17,992
Kensington-Chinatown 17,945
Amos 17,918
St.Andrew-Windfields 17,812
Brookhaven-Amesbury 17,757
Esquimalt 17,655
Squamish 17,587
Glace Bay 17,556
Miramichi 17,537
Niagara-on-the-Lake 17,511
Victoria Village 17,510
Saint-Lin-Laurentides 17,463
Morningside 17,455
Valley East 17,451
Deux-Montagnes 17,402
Les Coteaux 17,396
Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures 17,281
Petawawa 17,187
Danforth East York 17,180
Kennedy Park 17,123
Conception Bay South 17,087
Vanier 17,000
Willowdale West 16,936
Hillcrest Village 16,934
Colwood 16,859
Leaside-Bennington 16,828
Mount Pleasant East 16,775
Sainte-Catherine 16,762
Scarborough Village 16,724
Buckingham 16,685
Swift Current 16,604
Edmundston 16,580
Trinity-Bellwoods 16,556
L’Ancienne-Lorette 16,516
Clanton Park 16,472
Yorkton 16,343
Lutes Mountain 16,311
Sainte-Catherine 16,211
Lansing-Westgate 16,164
Newtonbrook East 16,097
Bracebridge 16,010
Candiac 15,947
Cliffcrest 15,935
L’Assomption 15,906
Greater Napanee 15,892
Bathurst Manor 15,873
Steinbach 15,829
Pleasant View 15,818
Henry Farm 15,723
Mont-Saint-Hilaire 15,720
Taylor-Massey 15,683
Saint-Basile-le-Grand 15,605
Leduc 15,561
Little Portugal 15,559
Magog 15,550
Humbermede 15,545
Edenbridge-Humber Valley 15,535
Lawrence Park South 15,179
Kenora 15,096
le Plateau 15,000
Roncesvalles 14,974
Fort Saskatchewan 14,957
Summerside 14,829
Okotoks 14,826
Gaspe 14,819
Sylvan Lake 14,816
Matane 14,812
Yorkdale-Glen Park 14,804
Prince Rupert 14,708
Lawrence Park North 14,607
Rayside-Balfour 14,557
Brooks 14,451
Greenwood-Coxwell 14,417
Junction Area 14,366
Humewood-Cedarvale 14,365
Wychwood 14,349
Briar Hill-Belgravia 14,257
Rosemere 14,173
Williams Lake 14,168
Corso Italia-Davenport 14,133
Canmore 13,992
Simcoe 13,922
Amherstburg 13,910
Pembroke 13,882
Oakridge 13,845
Palmerston-Little Italy 13,826
Thompson 13,678
Ionview 13,641
New Hamburg 13,595
Mount Dennis 13,593
Strathmore 13,592
Sainte-Marie 13,565
Mont-Laurier 13,405
Centennial Scarborough 13,362
Portage la Prairie 13,304
Powell River 13,157
Bayview Woods-Steeles 13,154
North Perth 13,130
Lacombe 13,057
Dolbeau-Mistassini 12,916
Salmon Arm 12,875
Forest Hill North 12,806
Ingersoll 12,757
Laurentides 12,710
Winkler 12,660
Kentville 12,636
Port Hope 12,587
Woodbine Corridor 12,541
Yonge-St.Clair 12,528
Elliot Lake 12,508
Highland Creek 12,494
Humber Summit 12,416
Aldergrove 12,363
Gravenhurst 12,312
Paris 12,310
Truro 12,261
Grand Falls-Windsor 12,076
Alderwood 12,054
Parksville 12,000
Queenswood Heights 12,000
Beauharnois 11,918
North Riverdale 11,916
Carleton Place 11,901
Bathurst 11,897
Etobicoke West Mall 11,848
Yonge-Eglinton 11,817
Dufferin Grove 11,785
Montmagny 11,724
Gander 11,688

What is Canada’s population in 2024?

Canada's population in 2024

In my research and analysis of Canada’s demographic trends, I found that as of January 1, 2024, Canada’s population reached an estimated 39,566,248. This marked a significant milestone in the country’s history, as it was the first time Canada experienced a population increase of over a million people within a single year. Between January 1, 2022, and January 1, 2024, the population grew by 1,050,110, resulting in an annual growth rate of 2.7% according to Statistque Cnada. This rate was the highest since 1957, when the growth rate hit 3.3%, largely due to the post-war baby boom and the influx of refugees following the Hungarian Revolution of 1956.

The primary factor behind this remarkable growth in 2022 was international migration, which accounted for 95.9% of the overall population increase. This trend places Canada at the forefront of population growth among the G7 nations, a position it has maintained for several years, including in 2022.

Which Canadian City Is Growing the Fastest?

Moncton, located in New Brunswick, has emerged as Canada’s fastest-growing city according to CBC. From July 2021 to July 2022, the city experienced a remarkable 5.3% increase in its metropolitan area population. This growth has brought a range of benefits, including enhanced cultural diversity, the establishment of new businesses, and bolstered support for existing ones. The city has become particularly attractive to immigrants from various countries, including Peru, drawn by Moncton’s distinct seasons, promising career opportunities, and educational facilities like those offered at the New Brunswick Community College (NBCC).

The city’s welcoming atmosphere is further reinforced by organizations such as Moncton Cares, which play a pivotal role in helping newcomers settle and integrate into the community. However, Moncton’s rapid growth is not without its challenges. Issues such as affordable housing, healthcare, and education are becoming increasingly pressing. John Wishart, the CEO of the Greater Moncton Chamber of Commerce, has highlighted the critical need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders, including the government and private sector, to effectively address these challenges, with a particular focus on housing.

Moreover, the workforce development is a key area that requires attention. As the city grows, it’s essential to ensure that the skills and talents of new residents are recognized and utilized effectively. This involves not only creating job opportunities but also providing necessary training and support to help newcomers adapt to the Canadian job market.

Where Do Most Canadians Live?

Where Do Most Canadians Live

The majority of Canadians reside in urban areas, with a substantial portion living in the country’s major cities. Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver rank as the largest cities in Canada by population. These urban centers are not just hubs of economic activity but also cultural melting pots, offering diverse experiences and opportunities.

A notable concentration of Canada’s population is found in the southern regions, especially near the Canada-US border as per Statistique Canada says. This preference is largely attributed to the more favorable climate found in these areas, as well as greater economic opportunities. The southern location offers a milder climate compared to the harsher conditions of the northern regions, making it more conducive for living and business activities.

From my personal experience and observations, the allure of Canada’s major cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver is undeniable. Having spent time in these urban hubs, I’ve witnessed firsthand the vibrant cultural diversity and the myriad of opportunities they offer. The southern regions of Canada, particularly the Golden Horseshoe area, are not just economic powerhouses but also places where community and culture thrive stated by Ontario.ca.

The “Golden Horseshoe” region in Ontario is particularly significant in terms of population density. This area, which wraps around the western end of Lake Ontario and includes the Greater Toronto Area, is a major population center. It’s not just the economic opportunities that attract people here; the region also offers a range of recreational and cultural amenities, making it an attractive place to live.

Where Do Most Canadian Immigrants Go?


Most Canadian immigrants tend to settle in the largest cities and urban areas, which offer better economic opportunities, cultural diversity, and established immigrant communities. The top destinations for immigrants in Canada are:

  1. Toronto, Ontario: As the largest city in Canada, Toronto attracts a significant number of immigrants. It is known for its cultural diversity and strong economy, making it an attractive destination for newcomers.
  2. Vancouver, British Columbia: Vancouver is another popular destination for immigrants due to its mild climate, economic opportunities, and existing immigrant communities.
  3. Montreal, Quebec: Montreal is the largest city in the French-speaking province of Quebec. It attracts immigrants due to its vibrant culture, job opportunities, and unique blend of French and English-speaking communities.
  4. Calgary, Alberta: Calgary is a major city in Alberta, with a strong economy driven by the energy sector. It has become an increasingly popular destination for immigrants in recent years.
  5. Edmonton, Alberta: Edmonton is another city in Alberta with a growing economy and increasing job opportunities, making it an attractive option for immigrants.
  6. Winnipeg, Manitoba: Winnipeg is the largest city in the province of Manitoba and has seen growth in its immigrant population due to its diverse economy and job opportunities.
  7. Ottawa, Ontario: As the capital of Canada, Ottawa has a stable job market, particularly in the public sector, and offers various cultural and recreational opportunities, making it an attractive destination for immigrants.

Largest City in Canada by Area

La Tuque in Quebec Canada

Based on my research and understanding of Canadian geography, the title of the largest city in Canada by area goes to La Tuque in Quebec.

Situated in the scenic Mauricie region, La Tuque’s expanse is truly impressive, covering around 28,099 square kilometers or 10,850 square miles.

This vast area is not densely populated; instead, it’s characterized by extensive forests, numerous rivers, and a multitude of lakes. The sheer size of La Tuque is a fascinating aspect of Canada’s diverse urban landscapes, showcasing how a city’s area isn’t always reflective of its population density.

This unique characteristic of La Tuque makes it stand out among Canadian cities.

Smallest City in Canada

From my studies and understanding of Canadian demographics, the smallest city in Canada in terms of population is Saint-Pierre-de-l’Île-d’Orléans, Quebec.

As per the 2021 Canadian Census, this quaint city had only 251 residents as stated by Statistique Canada. It’s nestled on Île d’Orléans, a picturesque island in the Saint Lawrence River, not far from Quebec City.

This distinction of being the smallest city, however, depends on the criteria used. In this case, it’s based on population size, but if one were to consider land area, the results might differ.

Saint-Pierre-de-l’Île-d’Orléans’ small population offers a unique, close-knit community experience, contrasting sharply with the bustling urban centers elsewhere in Canada.

FAQ

What is the most densely populated city in Canada?

The most densely populated city in Canada is Vancouver, British Columbia. Its high population density is due to its limited land area combined with a large population.

How does the cost of living vary among Canadian cities?

The cost of living varies significantly across Canadian cities. Cities like Vancouver and Toronto are known for higher living costs, especially in housing, while cities like Winnipeg and Halifax tend to be more affordable.

What city in Canada has the highest number of immigrants?

Toronto, Ontario, has the highest number of immigrants in Canada. It’s known for its multicultural diversity and is a major destination for new arrivals to the country.

Are there any bilingual cities in Canada?

Yes, there are bilingual cities in Canada, with Ottawa, the capital city, being a notable example. Montreal, Quebec, is also largely bilingual, with a significant portion of the population speaking both English and French.

What Canadian city has the most extreme weather?

Cities in the Canadian Prairies, like Winnipeg, and Manitoba, often experience extreme weather, with very cold winters and hot summers.

Which Canadian city is known for its technology sector?

Waterloo, Ontario, is renowned for its technology sector and is often referred to as “Canada’s Silicon Valley.” It’s home to many tech companies and innovative startups.

Is there a city in Canada that is particularly known for its arts and culture?

Montreal, Quebec, is widely recognized for its vibrant arts and culture scene, including festivals, music, theater, and visual arts.

How do Canadian cities rank in terms of environmental sustainability?

Canadian cities like Vancouver and Toronto often rank high in environmental sustainability due to their initiatives in green living, public transportation, and sustainable urban planning.

What is the average commute time in major Canadian cities?

Average commute times can vary, but in larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver, commute times can average around 30 to 60 minutes.

Are there any Canadian cities with significant historical importance?

Quebec City, Quebec, is of significant historical importance, known for its well-preserved historical architecture and as one of the oldest cities in North America.

Conclusion

After delving into the intricate tapestry of Canada’s cities and their demographics, I’ve gained a profound appreciation for the country’s diverse urban landscape. Canada’s unique structure, with its ten provinces and three territories, creates a fascinating mosaic of cities, each with its own identity and charm.

The varying criteria for city classification across provinces, such as Alberta’s 10,000-resident threshold versus British Columbia’s 5,000, highlight the regional nuances that make studying Canada’s urban areas so intriguing. It’s these differences that paint a vivid picture of a nation that embraces diversity not just in its people but also in its governance and urban planning.

The concentration of Canada’s population in its cities is a testament to the urban pull. Cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Calgary aren’t just population centers; they are hubs of culture, economy, and innovation. Living in these cities, I’ve experienced the bustling streets, the vibrant cultural scenes, and the dynamic economic activities that make them magnets for people from all walks of life.

Disclaimer

Please note that the content provided here is based on personal opinions, expertise, and experiences, as well as information gathered from various online sources. It reflects an individual perspective and should be considered as a subjective interpretation of life in Cleveland, OH. This narrative aims to share personal insights and experiences to offer a unique view of the city, rather than an exhaustive or universally applicable guide.

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