According to the latest report from the Institut de la statistique du Québec (ISQ), between July 2023 and July 2024, Quebec experienced a historic population surge primarily driven by immigration. The province added approximately 208,000 residents during this period, marking a 2.3 percent population increase — the highest recorded since data collection began in the early 1970s.
On This Page You Will Find:
- A detailed analysis of Quebec’s record-breaking population growth from July 2023 to July 2024.
- Insights into Montreal’s role as the epicenter of Quebec’s population surge and how other regions like Quebec City, Laval, and Outaouais are thriving.
- The role of immigration, especially temporary immigration, in driving Quebec’s demographic trends.
- Challenges associated with rapid population growth, including pressures on housing, healthcare, and education.
- The long-term implications of Quebec’s immigration policies and their effects on economic sustainability.
Montreal emerged as the epicentre of this demographic shift, adding more than 91,000 people for an annual growth rate of 4.2 percent. This accounted for 44 percent of the province’s population increase, solidifying Montreal’s position as a magnet for newcomers.
“Montreal’s growth rate is among the highest ever recorded in any Quebec region,” the ISQ stated. Other areas, including Quebec City, Laval, and the Outaouais and Mauricie regions, also reported significant growth, with Quebec City setting a record at 2.4 percent.
Temporary Immigration
The ISQ report highlights that international migration, mainly temporary immigration, was the primary driver of population growth across Quebec. Non-permanent residents, such as international students, temporary foreign workers, and asylum seekers, outnumbered newly admitted permanent residents in every region.
This trend was especially pronounced in urban hubs with universities or strong labour market demands. “Temporary immigration surged following the end of pandemic restrictions,” noted Adèle Garnier, a geography professor at Université Laval.
Provincial Growth Across the Board
Except for the Côte-Nord region, every administrative region in Quebec recorded population gains. The growth rates varied, with regions like Estrie, Montérégie, and Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean posting their highest increases since data became available in 1986-87.
The regions of Lanaudière and Laurentides benefited from interregional migration, drawing residents from urban centers like Montreal. In contrast, regions such as Nord-du-Québec and Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine saw moderate growth due to their remote locations.
Natural Population Decline
For the first time since data collection began, Quebec recorded a natural population decline between 2023 and 2024, with deaths exceeding births by 1,150. This trend reflects the province’s aging population and declining birthrate, which falls below the replacement level.
In 12 of the province’s 17 regions, deaths outpaced births. However, areas such as Montreal, Laval, Montérégie, and Outaouais bucked this trend, with births slightly exceeding deaths. In Nord-du-Québec, natural growth remained the primary contributor to population increases.
Pressures on Housing and Healthcare
Quebec Premier François Legault has expressed concerns about the rapid influx of temporary immigrants, citing pressures on housing, education, and healthcare and the potential erosion of the French language.
To address these issues, the provincial government has implemented measures to slow the flow of temporary arrivals, including freezing specific immigration streams for low-wage workers and limiting pathways to permanent residency.
“The number of temporary immigrants in Quebec has doubled to 600,000 from 300,000 in just two years,” Legault stated. He has also urged the federal government to distribute asylum seekers more evenly among provinces.
Long-Term Implications
While immigration has offset Quebec’s natural population decline and bolstered economic growth, challenges remain. Garnier cautions that relying heavily on immigration is not a permanent solution. “Immigrants will age too, so this is a long-term challenge,” she explained.
Additionally, the Quebec government’s push to reduce temporary immigration could have unintended consequences. A decrease in international students and temporary workers may hinder the economic dynamism of regions dependent on these groups.
On the other hand, external factors, such as an unfriendly US immigration policy, could make Canada an even more attractive destination for skilled workers, potentially mitigating some of the effects of Quebec’s policy changes.
Montreal Growth
Montreal’s unparalleled growth highlights its role as Quebec’s demographic and economic hub. Despite significant interregional migration losses, the city’s population surged due to its ability to attract international migrants.
“International migration is concentrated in Montreal,” noted ISQ demographer Martine St-Amour. The city’s strong education sector, cultural diversity, and economic opportunities make it a preferred destination for newcomers.
Quebec City, the province’s capital, also recorded remarkable growth, adding nearly 20,700 residents. Of these, 18,494 were international migrants, underscoring the role of temporary immigration in sustaining urban development.
Regional Trends
Regions with strong labour markets and educational institutions, such as Laval, Outaouais, and Mauricie, mirrored the growth patterns of Montreal and Quebec City. Historically slower-growing areas, like Chaudière-Appalaches and Bas-Saint-Laurent, reported near-record population increases.
Conversely, the Côte-Nord region experienced a stagnant population, highlighting the uneven distribution of growth across the province.
Leveraging Immigration
Quebec’s record population growth signals a pivotal moment in its demographic history. The province faces a dual challenge: leveraging immigration to sustain its economy while addressing the pressures of rapid development on infrastructure and services.
As Quebec navigates these complexities, immigration will remain central to its future. Strategic policies that balance growth with sustainability will ensure that all regions benefit from this demographic shift.
The ISQ report provides a roadmap for policymakers and stakeholders to address these challenges. By understanding the dynamics of immigration and population growth, Quebec can chart a path toward a prosperous and inclusive future.
Frequently Asked Questions: Quebec Population
What caused Quebec’s population growth between 2023 and 2024?
Quebec experienced record population growth due to immigration, especially temporary immigration. International students, temporary foreign workers, and asylum seekers accounted for much of this surge, with Montreal being a primary destination. Additionally, interregional migration contributed to growth in regions like Lanaudière and Laurentides.
Why is temporary immigration significant for Quebec’s regions?
Temporary immigration has become a key driver for regional growth, particularly in urban centers with strong labor markets and educational institutions. International students and temporary workers not only support economic development but also help counterbalance Quebec’s aging population and declining birth rates.
How is Montreal contributing to Quebec’s demographic shift?
Montreal led the population surge, adding over 91,000 new residents, accounting for 44% of Quebec’s total increase. Its vibrant economy, cultural diversity, and strong education sector make it a magnet for international migrants, solidifying its role as Quebec’s demographic hub.
What challenges does Quebec face due to rapid population growth?
Quebec faces pressures on housing, education, and healthcare systems due to the influx of temporary immigrants. Concerns about preserving the French language and managing long-term economic sustainability have prompted the government to introduce measures to control immigration levels.
What are the long-term implications of Quebec’s immigration policies?
While immigration offsets natural population decline and boosts economic growth, relying heavily on it poses challenges. Immigrants will also age, necessitating sustainable policies. Restricting temporary immigration could reduce economic dynamism, especially in regions dependent on international students and workers.
