The province’s population stood at 508,990 as of January 1, 2009, according to the latest information released by Statistics Canada.  This represents an increase of 46 persons from October 1, 2008 (the previous quarter) and an increase of 1,222 persons from January 1, 2008 (the previous year).

The population growth from October 2008 to January 2009 was due to net in-migration.  Net migration totalled 218 persons during the fourth quarter as the province experienced net inter-provincial in-migration of 292 which was offset somewhat by net international migration of -74. 
 

Natural population declined by 172 persons in the October 2008 to January 2009 period.  The number of births has been trending downward for four decades because of declining fertility rates and, more recently, a decline in the number of women of child-bearing age.

If trends in natural population change continue, migration will be the main determining factor for population growth in the short-term.  Migration patterns recorded in the last four quarters have resulted in renewed population growth.