This Thursday, Quebec crossed the symbolic milestone of nine million inhabitants. The province is currently experiencing unprecedented population growth, with its population increasing by more than 800 people per day, primarily due to immigration. A look at the evolution of the size of the Quebec population.
+800
The population of Quebec is currently increasing by a little more than 800 people per day, show data from Statistics Canada, which follows the demographic evolution of the country live using an algorithm, via its demographic clock. The figures take into account all departures and arrivals, as well as births and deaths. This is the fastest growth rate ever observed in the history of the province, surpassing the previous record set during the baby boom. It is also one of the strongest progressions in this regard in Canada, all provinces combined.
625
This is roughly the number of non-permanent residents arriving on average daily in Quebec. There are also approximately 181 immigrants who settle in the province every day. In short, Quebec’s population growth is propelled by immigration, especially that which is temporary or professional, or even student.
Natural increase still low
Meanwhile, natural increase, or the difference between the number of births and the number of deaths within the same population, still remains very low in Quebec. There are an average of 227 births compared to 198 deaths per day, which means that just 29 additional people are added to the daily toll this way.
What about interprovincial migration?
According to Statistics Canada, approximately 87 Canadians settle in Quebec every day, while 99 Quebecers settle in another Canadian province. In short, Quebec loses approximately 12 inhabitants per day due to internal Canadian migration, or approximately 4,380 people per year. Basically, 13 Quebecers leave for abroad per day.
Four years early
Quebec also crossed the 9 million mark four years ahead of schedule. Indeed, the Institute of Statistics of Quebec (ISQ) had revised its demographic projections in 2022 and predicted that the province would reach this symbolic threshold only in 2028. It is around 2066 that Quebec should reach the bar. 10 million inhabitants, according to the most recent forecasts from the ISQ. However, these forecasts could be brought forward if current population growth continues.