Population stood at 511,036 as of January 1, 2012

The province’s population was 511,036 as of January 1, 2012, according to the latest information released by Statistics Canada. This represents a decrease of 236 persons from October 1, 2011 (the previous quarter) and an increase of 13 persons from January 1, 2011 (the previous year).

The change in population from October 2011 to January 2012 was the result of negative net migration and a natural decrease. Net out-migration totaled 186 persons during the fourth quarter of 2011 as the province experienced net inter-provincial out-migration of 199 persons and net international in-migration of 13.

Natural population (deaths minus births) decreased by 50 persons in the October to December 2011 period. The number of births has been trending downward for four decades because of lower fertility rates and, more recently, a decline in the number of women of child-bearing age.

While some improvement in fertility rates has been recorded in recent years, natural population change is not likely to contribute significantly to population growth in the near future. As such, migration will be the main determining factor for population growth in the short-term. Although fluctuations in migration levels are to be expected from quarter to quarter, Newfoundland and Labrador has recorded strong economic growth in the last several years which, coupled with a tightening labour market, should continue to support migration to the province.

Statistical Reference:Statistics used in this analysis were the latest available at the time of writing. For the latest in population statistics visit the Newfoundland & Labrador Statistics Agency site.

Provincial population projections are also available by age, gender and various levels of geography. For analysis of regional demographic trends, see Regional Demographic Profiles, Newfoundland and Labrador, November 2007