When Canadians participated in the last Census of Population in 2021, we helped create detailed snapshots of communities large and small—including Pender Island. As we look ahead to the 2026 Census (starting May 4, 2026) it’s worth exploring what we learned, how Census geography works on Pender Island, North and South, and why participation matters.
Two Census Geographies – North and South
From a Statistics Canada perspective, Pender Island is made up of two official Census geographies: North Pender Island Trust Area, and South Pender Island Trust Area. These are the areas used to collect, analyze, and publish data. Each area has its own Census Profile, population count, and demographic characteristics. The data can be viewed individually or together to highlight life on Pender Island.
In 2021, the combined population of North and South Pender Island was approximately 2,770 people—about 2,467 on North Pender Island and 306 on South Pender Island. This showed a significant increase of 19.4% (North Pender Island) and 30.2% (South Pender Island) over 2016, well above the Canadian average of 5.2%.
For Ethnic or cultural origin, North Pender Island residents in private households reported origins of 39.6% English (52.2% on South Pender Island), 25% Scottish (21.7% on South Pender Island), and 21.4% Irish (37% on South Pender Island).
Higher Median Age
2021 Census results showed that Pender Island’s age profile is significantly higher than the average in Canada.
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The median age on North Pender Island is 61.6 years (Canada’s was 41.9 years).
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42% of residents were aged 65 and older (compared to 19% in Canada).
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Children aged 0–14 made up just over 8% of the area’s population (this was 16.3% for Canada).
These data have important implications for:
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Health care and emergency services.
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Accessible housing and aging‑in‑place supports.
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Transportation and ferry planning.
Accurate age data can help ensure that local services and funding reflect the realities of life on Pender Island and across the Southern Gulf Islands.
Working on the Island—and from Home
Census commuting data reflects Pender Island’s unique economy, based on geography.
In 2021, residents:
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Worked locally (80.7% on North Pender Island, 35% for South Pender Island)
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Were self‑employed (North Pender Island – 45.5%, South Pender Island – 47.6%)
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Were casual, seasonal or short-term workers (North Pender Island – 8%, South Pender Island – 19%)
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Worked from home (North Pender Island – 8%, South Pender Island – 19%)
For those commuting off‑island, ferry schedules are part of daily life. The Census also tracks the times people leave for work; this information can be used by transportation planners to understand peak travel times and service demand.
Key Industries on Pender Island
The highest broad category occupation (National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021) was trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupations on North Pender Island (23.5%), and sales and service occupations on South Pender Island (23.8%).
Employment on Pender Island was identified by sectors (North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) 2017) that reflect island life and visitor activity, including:
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Health care and social assistance: 9.8% – North Pender Island, 14.3% – South Pender Island
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Retail trade: 10.8% – North Pender Island, 19% – South Pender Island
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Construction: 15% – North Pender Island, 19% – South Pender Island
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Accommodation and food services: 6.1% – North Pender Island, 0 – South Pender Island
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Arts, recreation, and other services: 6.6% – North, 14.3% – South
Industry data support workforce planning, skills training, and economic development strategies which can be used by entrepreneurs, students, financial institutions, and governments.
The Long‑Form Census: Where the Details Come From
Every household in Canada completes the census, but about 25% of households receive the long‑form census. This long format provides detailed statistics including commuting patterns, industries, income, housing, languages, and more.
Although only one in four households receive it, the long form is carefully designed to represent everyone accurately.
Looking Ahead in 2026
The next Census of Population begins on May 4, 2026. Check your mailbox for your Canada Census letter, and be on the lookout for Census Enumerators in your community. You can support Census collection with resources found here.
Your responses help tell Pender Island’s story—North, South, and together.