Population

The total population of Waterloo Region is estimated at 678,170 as of year-end 2024, including university and college students who would normally be residing in the Region while they study at our local institutions. This is an increase 4,260 people, a growth rate of 0.6% from year-end 2023. Based on this estimate, over the past 15 years the region's population has grown an average of 1.5 per cent per year.

There are a few commonly reference population figures for Waterloo Region, Statistics Canada Census population, Statistics Canada annual population estimates, and population forecasts contained in various Area Municipal Official Plans.

• The Statistics Canada’s latest Census was conducted in 2021 and counted the Regions population at 587,165 people. the Census is based on a count of people living within the Region, but does not typically include the post-secondary student population which resides in the Region While attending one of the local institutions
• The Statistics Canada annual population estimates provide annual estimates of population using administrative datasets such as vital statistics and tax filer data. in 2021, they estimated the Region’s population to be 614,000 people. for mid-year 2024, they estimated the Regions population to be 706,000 people.
• Official Plans provide population forecasts to 2051. The most recently published forecast is contained in the Regions Official Plan and projected the Regions population to grow to 923,000 people by 2051. Forecasts across the Regions seven Area Municipalities are currently being reviewed and updated to align with the most recent growth outlook.

• Bulletin: Year End 2024 Population and Household Estimates
• Report: Year End 2024 Population and Household Estimates