News release

Nova Scotia’s Population Reaches All-time High

Finance and Treasury Board

Nova Scotia’s population is at a new all-time high thanks to the number of immigrants and people from other provinces who are choosing to make their homes here.

Nova Scotia’s population grew by 11,895 residents, or 1.24 per cent, reaching a high of 971,395 as of July 1, 2019.

“This positive momentum shows that work to strengthen our population and economy is having a direct impact,” said Finance and Treasury Board Minister Karen Casey.

Over the last year, 6,393 immigrants settled in Nova Scotia. At the same time, the net migration to Nova Scotia from other provinces grew to 3,306. The net number of non-permanent residents, such as international students, also increased by 4,121.

Quotes:

"Immigration is positive for all of us and through our work we are making a difference. We continue to attract new residents to our province and that helps strengthen our community.”

– Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab

Quick Facts:

  • these recent figures are based on a report from Statistics Canada comparing July 1, 2018 with July 1, 2019
  • Nova Scotia’s recent population growth started in 2015. Since July 1, 2015, Nova Scotia’s population has grown by 34,870
  • in the last 12 months (July 1, 2018 to July 1, 2019), 6,393 immigrants came to Nova Scotia – the most in annual records dating back to the second world war

Additional Resources: