Yesterday, Statistics Canada released data from the 2021 Census of Population, showing Canada’s population growth from 2016 to 2021. The city of Owen Sound saw a population increase of 1.3% during this period. to reach 21,612 inhabitants.

A growing city is a strategic priority of the Council. Their dedication to making the city a more sustainable, safe, prosperous, collaborative, dynamic and resilient city is paying off. The 2016 census showed a slight decrease in Owen Sound’s population compared to 2011. This new data tells us that the city’s population is growing and that the vision of being “where you Want to to live” is now becoming a reality.

The monthly city development update for January 2022 also supports these findings. Over the past eight years, 571 new residential units have been developed in Owen Sound, including ninety-one newly created in 2021.

Once every five years, the Census of Population provides a detailed and comprehensive statistical portrait of Canada that is used by all levels of government, businesses and various community and social service organizations. There will be seven major “thematic” releases of the 2021 Census of Population data release throughout 2022.

For more information, please contact Tim Simmonds, City Manager at 519-376-4440 ext. 1210 or by email at [email protected]

Quote:

“After ten years of decline, the data shows that we have turned the corner with an increase over the past five years. With 400 new homes coming onto the market over the next few months, the allure of a new industry and significant developer investment, the City is moving in the right direction. We can build on this foundation. -Ian Boddy

Fast facts:

• One of the Council’s strategic priorities is a “growing city”.
• The 2021 Census was Canada’s 23rd national census.
• The Census of Population achieved a national response rate of 98%.

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Attachments

2022-02-10 News release – 2021 Census data shows population growth in Owen Sound