Population & Diversity

Hamilton is a diverse city in Canada, with a population of more than 500,000 residents. Hamilton is the third destination of choice for new immigrants to Ontario and according to Statistics Canada more than 24% of our population is born outside of Canada.


Between 2011 and 2036, the city’s population is expected to grow by approximately 20%, and Hamilton’s population of older adults and seniors is expected to almost double.

One in four people in Hamilton were born outside of Canada and are from a wide range of countries. The most common countries of origin among recent immigrants are:

  • Philippines
  • China
  • India
  • Iraq
  • United States of America
  • Colombia
  • Pakistan
  • United Kingdom

Languages

As of 2011, nearly three-quarters of Hamilton's residents (73.8%) reported English as their first language, which is higher than Ontario overall (68.2%).

  • Hamilton - 1.3% reported French only
  • Ontario - 3.9% for French only
  • Hamilton - 23.1% reported a non-official language only
  • Ontario - 25.7% for non-official languages only
     

In 2011, the five most common mother tongues in Hamilton were:

  • Italian - 3.5%
  • Polish - 1.6%
  • Portuguese - 1.5%
  • Spanish - 1.5%
  • Arabic - 1.3%


Get help in your language

The City of Hamilton offers simultaneous translation by telephone for residents. When you phone the city 905-546-2424 ask for this service. 

Related Content