People

Northwestern Ontario is home to approximately 250,000 people - a relatively small population compared to other areas of Canada. More than 50 per cent of the entire population lives in the Thunder Bay area.

The region is home to a diverse and multicultural population. People from all corners of the world move to Northwestern Ontario for new lifestyle, education or work opportunities.

The major ethnic groups are traditionally of Indigenous, English, Scottish, French, Italian, Portuguese and Scandinavian origins. However people from Asia, Africa and Central and South America are also represented across the region.

Northwestern Ontario is particularly unique in terms of its Indigenous and Francophone communities. Regional Indigenous and Francophone people still practise their languages, customs and ways of life in Northwestern Ontario.

Northwestern Ontario Population Distribution (2011):

Useful Links:

• Statistics Canada
• North of Superior Workforce Planning Board