On April 1, 2006 the province’s population was estimated to be 512,509.

The province has experienced periods of considerable out-migration throughout its history, the most recent during the past decade. High out-migration, sparked by the collapse of the groundfish fisheries, combined with fewer births, started a decrease in the population in 1993. Losses peaked in 1998 at about 11,000. While out-migration slowed considerably over the past three years and appeared steady, levels have increased again in recent months as large numbers of construction jobs on the Voisey’s Bay and White Rose projects ended. In addition, challenging conditions in the local fishery and forestry sectors, and increased demand for labour in other provinces, particularly Alberta, provide additional incentives to potential migrants. Latest data indicate that between April 1, 2005 and April 1, 2006, the population of the province declined by about 3,900 people.

See also: Population Projections | Demographic Reports