Canada, known for its vast and diverse landscape, is home to several large and vibrant cities that serve as hubs for culture, economy, and innovation. Here is a comprehensive guide to the largest cities in Canada, highlighting their populations, unique characteristics, and growth trends.
1. Toronto
Toronto is the largest city in Canada, with a population of 2,794,356 as of the 2021 Canadian census[1][4][5].
Located in Southern Ontario, Toronto is a megacity formed in 1998 by merging the six cities of Metropolitan Toronto.
It has surpassed Montreal as Canada’s most populous city since the 2001 census.
The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) expands to 7,124 square kilometers and includes several surrounding cities like Mississauga and Brampton.
2. Montreal
Montreal is the second-largest city, with a population of 1,762,949[1][4].
Historically, Montreal was Canada’s largest city but experienced a decline in the 20th century, particularly in the 1970s due to the rise of the sovereignty movement and language laws.
Despite this, Montreal remains a significant cultural and economic center in Quebec.
3. Calgary
Calgary has a population of 1,306,784 and is one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, having expanded more than 20% between 2009 and 2019[1][4].
The region between Edmonton and Calgary is expected to house 80% of Alberta’s population by 2046.
Calgary’s growth is driven by its strong economy, particularly in the energy sector.
4. Ottawa
Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, has a population of 1,017,449[1][4].
Chosen as the national capital in 1857, Ottawa’s growth is largely attributed to the Federal Public Service, with over 127,000 federal employees in the National Capital Region as of 2020.
5. Edmonton
Edmonton has a population of 1,010,899 and has grown significantly through land annexation and urban densification[1][4].
Since 1892, Edmonton has annexed land more than 30 times, with the most recent annexation in 2019.
The city is also focusing on “infill” development to increase building density in existing neighborhoods.
6. Winnipeg
Winnipeg, with a population of 749,607, is addressing urban challenges such as transit demand through innovative solutions like on-request transit services[1][4].
This system uses smartphone apps and GPS to adjust bus routes in real-time, improving service efficiency.
7. Mississauga
Mississauga has a population of 717,961 and is known for significant urban development projects[1][4].
Two large industrial sites on Lake Ontario are being redeveloped into new neighborhoods, and a central project is considered the largest mixed-use development in Canadian history.
8. Vancouver
Vancouver, with a population of 662,248, has faced housing affordability issues due to foreign investment in residential properties[1][4].
In response, the provincial government introduced a 20% property transfer tax for foreign entities in 2018, and the city implemented an empty home tax.
9. Brampton
Brampton has a population of 656,480 and has experienced rapid growth, partly due to the expansion of urban boundaries and the regulation of basement apartments (secondary units)[1][4].
There are over 7,000 registered secondary units, with estimates suggesting many more unregistered units.
10. Hamilton
Hamilton, with a population of 569,353, is expected to add about a quarter million new residents by 2051[1][4].
The city is planning to expand its urban growth area by adding 1,340 hectares of farmland, reflecting the need for balanced urban development.
Urban Population Growth in Canada
Canada has seen a steady increase in its urban population over the years. As of 2023, the urban population in Canada was 32,824,829, representing a 3.11% increase from 2022[2][5].
The urban population growth rate has been averaging around 1.3% annually since 1961, with a record high of 3.523% in 1971 and a low of 0.665% in 2021[5].
Most Important Facts
Largest City: Toronto, with a population of 2,794,356.
Second-Largest City: Montreal, with a population of 1,762,949.
Fastest-Growing City: Calgary, which expanded more than 20% between 2009 and 2019.
Capital City: Ottawa, with a population of 1,017,449, driven largely by the Federal Public Service.
Urban Population Growth: Canada’s urban population grew by 3.11% in 2023, reaching 32,824,829.
Key Challenges: Cities like Vancouver face housing affordability issues, while cities like Winnipeg are innovating in public transit.
Development Trends: Many cities, such as Mississauga and Hamilton, are focusing on urban densification and mixed-use developments to manage growth.
These cities not only serve as economic and cultural hubs but also reflect the diverse and evolving urban landscape of Canada.
