Toronto’s Population Surpasses 7 Million: Key Insights

Toronto’s population growth has reached a significant milestone. As of July 2024, the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) population topped 7.1 million, according to a recent Statistics Canada report. This marks a nearly 4% increase compared to 2023, reflecting an influx of close to 300,000 new residents.

What is the Toronto CMA?

The Toronto CMA encompasses a vast area of 5,902 square kilometres. This region spans from Lake Simcoe in the north to Lake Ontario in the south, and from Ajax in the east to Oakville in the west. The data includes urban centres like Toronto, York, Peel, and parts of Halton and Durham.

External Migration Drives Growth

Experts attribute this population surge to external migration. Matti Semiatycki, a geography professor at the University of Toronto, emphasised the role of immigration in Toronto’s rapid growth.

Nearly a quarter of the 500,000 new immigrants to Canada in 2023 settled in Toronto. However, a dip in new permanent residents was noted, with non-permanent residents (NPRs) contributing significantly to the numbers.

“Immigration is driving economic and population growth in the region,” Semiatycki explained, highlighting Toronto’s reliance on newcomers for workforce development.

Outmigration Trends and Economic Impacts

Despite the population boost, some challenges persist. The report revealed that approximately 10,000 more people left the Toronto CMA for other provinces than moved in, with Alberta benefiting from interprovincial migration.

Future population growth may face constraints. The federal government’s decision to scale back immigration targets by 20% and introduce restrictions for international students is likely to impact Toronto’s influx of newcomers.

“Newcomers are critical for sustaining employment and economic dynamism,” Semiatycki noted. He warned that reduced immigration could exacerbate challenges in housing affordability, healthcare, and infrastructure development.

A Record-Breaking Year

The Toronto CMA experienced its most significant growth between 2023 and 2024. After gradual increases from 6.4 million in 2019 to 6.5 million in 2022, the population jumped by over 250,000 in 2023 and 270,000 in 2024. This rapid expansion highlights Toronto’s status as a global hub for newcomers.

Looking Ahead

While the recent growth reflects Toronto’s appeal, challenges like housing shortages, infrastructure demands, and economic pressures remain pressing. With reduced immigration targets, Toronto’s unprecedented growth may soon taper off.

As the city adapts to its growing population, addressing these challenges will be critical for maintaining quality of life and sustaining its vibrant economy.

More…

• https://www.cp24.com/local/toronto/2025/01/18/the-toronto-regions-population-has-topped-7-million-here-is-what-you-need-to-know
• https://www.blogto.com/city/2025/01/torontos-population-has-officially-exceeded-7-million
• https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/toronto-metropolitan-population-hits-seven-million-thanks-to-immigration/article_b399d974-d421-11ef-af79-6b2a86311d16.html