Canada 2006 Census: Population Trends, Demographics, and Household Dynamics
The 2006 Census provides a comprehensive snapshot of the Canadian landscape, detailing significant shifts in population distribution, age demographics, and the evolving nature of family structures. With a total population of 31,612,897, Canada experienced a growth of 5.4% compared to the 2001 census, reflecting a dynamic period of national expansion.
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Population Distribution by Province and Territory
Growth across Canada was uneven, with some provinces seeing rapid expansion while others experienced slight declines. Ontario remains the most populous province, reaching 12,160,282 residents. However, the highest percentage growth among provinces was seen in Alberta, which grew by 10.6% to reach a population of 3,290,350.
In contrast, Saskatchewan and Newfoundland and Labrador saw population decreases of 1.1% and 1.5% respectively. The territories also showed strong growth, with the Northwest Territories leading the way at an 11.0% increase.
| Province/Territory | 2001 Population | 2006 Population | Percent Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | 11,410,046 | 12,160,282 | 6.6% |
| Quebec | 7,237,479 | 7,546,131 | 4.3% |
| British Columbia | 3,907,738 | 4,113,487 | 5.3% |
| Alberta | 2,974,807 | 3,290,350 | 10.6% |
| Manitoba | 1,119,583 | 1,148,401 | 2.6% |
| Saskatchewan | 978,933 | 968,157 | -1.1% |
| Nova Scotia | 908,007 | 913,462 | 0.6% |
| New Brunswick | 729,498 | 729,997 | 0.1% |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 512,930 | 505,469 | -1.5% |
| Prince Edward Island | 135,294 | 135,851 | 0.4% |
| Northwest Territories | 37,360 | 41,464 | 11.0% |
| Yukon | 28,674 | 30,372 | 5.9% |
| Nunavut | 26,745 | 29,474 | 10.2% |
| Canada Total | 30,007,094 | 31,612,897 | 5.4% |
Age and Sex Demographics
A key finding from the 2006 data is the aging trend of the Canadian population. The 65-and-over population reached a record high of 13.7% of the total population, an increase from 13.0% in 2001. This shift indicates a growing proportion of seniors across the country.
Nationally, the population is distributed across three primary age brackets: children (0 to 14), the working-age population (15 to 64), and seniors (65+). In 2006, there were 16,136,925 females and 15,475,970 males in Canada.
Family Structures and Marital Status
The census revealed significant changes in how Canadians form households. While legally married couples (not separated) numbered 12,470,400, there was a notable surge in alternative relationship structures. Common-law relationships grew by 19.6%, and same-sex unions saw a substantial increase of 32.6%.
The data also highlights a shift in family composition. Married couples with children saw a slight decrease of 0.7%, while married couples without children grew by 9.5%. Common-law couples, both with and without children, experienced double-digit growth, with those without children increasing by 20.9%.
Key Facts
- Total Population: Canada's population grew to 31,612,897 in 2006.
- Fastest Growing Province: Alberta saw the highest provincial growth rate at 10.6%.
- Aging Population: Citizens aged 65 and over made up a record 13.7% of the population.
- Relationship Trends: Same-sex unions grew by 32.6% between 2001 and 2006.
- Regional Decline: Saskatchewan and Newfoundland and Labrador were the only provinces to see a population decrease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which province had the largest population in 2006?
Ontario was the most populous province with 12,160,282 residents.
How did the senior population change between 2001 and 2006?
The population aged 65 and over increased from 13.0% of the total population in 2001 to a record high of 13.7% in 2006.
What was the growth rate of common-law relationships?
Common-law relationships experienced a significant increase of 19.6% between the 2001 and 2006 censuses.
Which territory experienced the highest growth?
The Northwest Territories had the highest growth among the territories, increasing by 11.0%.
Did the number of married couples with children increase?
No, married couples with children saw a slight decrease of 0.7% during this period.