Since the 2022 edition of Statistics Canada’s population projections, the country’s demographic landscape has evolved significantly.  

Population growth has accelerated. Given that fertility rates reached a record low in 2022, and that there has been a three-year decline in life expectancy, this growth is largely attributed to increased immigration. The latest projections for 2023 to 2073 show that Canada’s population, estimated at 40.1 million in 2023, could reach 47.1 million to 87.2 million by 2073.  

The medium-growth scenario predicts 62.8 million by 2073. 

Ontario and Quebec are expected to remain the most populous provinces, though some demographic weight may shift toward Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia.  

Population aging will affect all provinces and territories, but to different extents. Growth rates will vary, and some regions may even experience population decline. The population of those aged 85 and older could triple. The proportion of those aged 65 and older is also expected to rise significantly.  

The next steps involve using these projections to inform policy and to create a plan for managing these demographic changes and their implications.