Toronto’s Population Surpasses Seven Million, Driven by Immigration Growth
The population of the Toronto CMA — an area that spans 5,902 square kilometres — reached 7.1 million in July.
Toronto Metropolitan Population Hits Seven Million Thanks to Immigration
Toronto, one of Canada’s largest and most dynamic cities, has officially surpassed a major demographic milestone. As of July 1, 2024, the population of the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) reached an impressive 7.1 million people. This represents a significant 3.9% growth from the previous year, largely driven by immigration and temporary residents moving to the area.
The Surge in Population Growth
According to a recent report by Statistics Canada, nearly 270,000 individuals relocated to the Toronto CMA between July 2023 and July 2024. This influx of people marks another record-breaking year for the city and its surrounding region, following a 3.8% growth rate the year before. The growth trend has accelerated over the past two years, with the region growing faster than at any time since 2001.
For context, Toronto’s CMA spans 5,902 square kilometers, extending from Oakville in the west to Ajax in the east, and from the shores of Lake Ontario north to Lake Simcoe. This vast area not only encompasses the city of Toronto itself but also includes numerous surrounding suburban and urban communities.
Immigration Drives Growth
The primary driver of Toronto’s population growth has been immigration. Frank Clayton, a senior research fellow at Toronto Metropolitan University’s Centre of Urban Research and Land Development, pointed out that the region’s buoyant economy and diverse educational opportunities are key factors that attract newcomers. Toronto is home to many well-established immigrant communities, which offer crucial support networks for those arriving in Canada for the first time.
Last year, more than 200,000 non-permanent residents (NPRs) moved to the region. These include international students, temporary workers, and other individuals in Canada on a temporary basis. While new immigrants remain the second-largest group contributing to population growth, the number of newly arrived immigrants has started to decline, partially due to tighter immigration policies enacted by the federal government.
Statistics show that nearly 28% of the 464,265 immigrants who arrived in Canada between 2023 and 2024 settled in the Toronto CMA. However, the number of new immigrants to the area has started to shrink, in line with national trends.
The Impact of Immigration Policies
The federal government’s recent policy shifts are playing a role in this decline. A 21% reduction in the number of new permanent residents this year, along with tighter caps on study permits, will likely result in fewer international students coming to Toronto. Additionally, new restrictions on temporary workers may further reduce the number of individuals arriving on work visas. Clayton noted that these policies are already impacting universities like York and the University of Toronto, which rely heavily on foreign students for revenue.
The tighter immigration policies may also have long-term effects on Toronto’s population growth, as the number of NPRs coming to the region is expected to decrease over the next few years.
Migration Trends Within Ontario
While Toronto’s CMA is experiencing substantial population growth, migration patterns within the province are shifting. Between July 2023 and July 2024, 9,819 people moved out of the province, a trend that has remained steady in recent years. Interprovincial migration levels are also on the rise, with many individuals moving to Alberta, seeking more affordable housing and job opportunities. Within Ontario, people are increasingly relocating to cities such as Oshawa, Hamilton, Niagara, and London, where the cost of living is generally lower than in Toronto.
What This Means for Toronto’s Future
As Toronto’s population continues to grow, the city faces both opportunities and challenges. The influx of new residents helps fuel the region’s economy, providing a growing workforce for businesses and contributing to the cultural diversity that Toronto is known for. However, the city must also address the pressures that come with this growth, such as housing affordability, infrastructure demands, and social services.
As immigration continues to play a pivotal role in shaping Toronto’s population, it is important for policymakers, businesses, and residents to be mindful of the changing dynamics and adapt to the evolving landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Toronto’s population reached 7.1 million in 2024, marking a 3.9% growth driven by immigration and temporary residents.
- The city remains a top destination for newcomers due to its economy, educational institutions, and established immigrant communities.
- Immigration policies are expected to impact future growth, with fewer immigrants and temporary residents expected to arrive in the coming years.
- Migration trends within Ontario show that many people are relocating to more affordable regions outside of Toronto, such as Oshawa, Hamilton, and Niagara.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Toronto?
As the Toronto metropolitan area continues to grow, it’s clear that immigration will remain a major factor in shaping its future. However, with changing federal policies and migration trends, the region must adjust to ensure it can continue to thrive and meet the needs of its growing population. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a real estate investor, or simply someone interested in the city’s development, now is the time to pay attention to how Toronto’s demographic landscape is evolving.
