Who’s moving to Nova Scotia? Break down the numbers with CBC
The Changing Landscape of Nova Scotia’s Population Growth
Recent data from Statistics Canada has revealed a shift in the demographic trends of Nova Scotia, indicating a slowdown in the flow of people moving to the province from other Canadian provinces. Instead, the primary driver of population growth in Nova Scotia is now international migration.
Without the influx of newcomers, Nova Scotia would be facing a decline in population, as deaths continue to outnumber births in the province. This highlights the crucial role that immigrants play in sustaining and growing the population of Nova Scotia.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on population movements cannot be understated, with a significant increase in the number of people relocating to Nova Scotia from provinces such as Ontario and British Columbia. Ontario, in particular, experienced a notable exchange of residents with Nova Scotia during this period.
Although interprovincial migration to Nova Scotia is still occurring, the pace has slowed compared to the peak seen during the pandemic. Meanwhile, the province has been grappling with a consistent decline in natural increase, as births lag behind deaths quarter after quarter since 2016.
As per the most recent estimates available until October 1, 2024, Nova Scotia’s population was reported to be 1,079,676. While immigrants constitute a small segment of the overall population, they have played a significant role in driving population growth in the province since 2021.
Statistics Canada distinguishes between permanent and non-permanent immigrants, with the latter encompassing individuals living in Canada on work or study permits, as well as those who have sought asylum in the country.
Looking ahead, Nova Scotia’s government, led by Premier Tim Houston, has set an ambitious target of reaching a population of two million by 2060 as part of efforts to stimulate economic growth. However, some political leaders have expressed concerns about the potential strain on housing and healthcare infrastructure that rapid population growth could bring.
The Nova Scotia Department of Finance has highlighted the unprecedented period of immigration the province has experienced in recent quarters, surpassing records dating back to 1946. This period of demographic change presents both opportunities and challenges for Nova Scotia as it navigates towards a more diverse and dynamic population landscape.
