Immigration Announcement
Millennials Surge to Become Canada’s Largest Demographic Group Through International Migration

In a significant demographic shift, millennials have now become the largest generation in Canada, according to new data from Statistics Canada. From July 2021 to July 2024, over 1.1 million people joined the millennial cohort, marking a 12.2% increase. This growth has been driven entirely by international migration, positioning millennials as the dominant age group in Canada’s population, and making them 1.4 times larger than in 2004.
This influx of young immigrants has even slightly reduced Canada’s median age, which now sits at 40.3 years. However, experts warn that despite this temporary decrease, the country’s aging population remains an inevitable reality for the future.
Millennials and Migration: The Key Drivers of Growth
Millennials, born between 1981 and 1996, were aged 27 to 43 as of July 1, 2024. During the past three years, Canada has experienced a surge in international migration, with the millennial generation benefiting the most from this trend. In fact, from July 2023 to July 2024 alone, 416,583 new millennials arrived in Canada, representing a 4.4% growth from the previous year.
The main reason for this rapid growth is that millennials often migrate for work or educational opportunities. With a strong demand for skilled workers in sectors like technology, healthcare, and education, Canada has increasingly relied on international migrants in this age group to help fill crucial gaps in the labor market.
Population Growth Slows, but International Migration Remains Strong
While Canada’s overall population growth rate has shown signs of slowing, the country continues to see robust growth thanks to international migration. As of July 1, 2024, Canada’s population reached an estimated 41.3 million, with a quarterly growth rate of 0.6%, adding 250,229 people between April and July 2024. Although this rate is slightly lower than in previous years, international migration remains the primary driver, accounting for 96% of the population growth during this period.
Non-permanent residents, such as work and study permit holders, played a significant role in this increase, with a net gain of 117,836 non-permanent residents in the second quarter of 2024. However, the pace of non-permanent resident growth has been slowing since October 2023, largely due to a decline in the number of study permit holders.
Millennials: A Temporary Buffer to Canada’s Aging Population
One of the most notable impacts of the growing millennial population is the slight reduction in Canada’s median age. For the third year in a row, the median age has decreased slightly, from 40.6 years in 2021 to 40.3 years in 2024. This decline reflects the influx of younger immigrants, particularly those in their 20s and 30s, who are balancing the overall aging trend.
Despite this temporary reprieve, the aging of Canada’s population remains an unavoidable long-term challenge. The number of Canadians aged 65 and older continues to grow at a steady pace, with this group increasing by 3.4% from July 2023 to July 2024. Baby boomers, who make up a large portion of this demographic, are aging into retirement, which will further drive up the proportion of seniors in the coming decades.
The Future of Canada’s Demographic Landscape
Looking ahead, population projections suggest that the aging population will continue to shape Canada’s demographic landscape. The millennial generation, though currently buoyed by international migration, will eventually face the same aging reality as previous generations. By 2073, the proportion of seniors is expected to grow at the fastest pace of any age group, as fertility rates continue to decline.
However, for the time being, millennials remain a crucial demographic force, supporting Canada’s economic growth and helping to mitigate the effects of an aging population. With Canada’s continued focus on attracting young, skilled workers through immigration, millennials are likely to play a vital role in the country’s future development.
International Migration Fuels Millennial Growth in Canada
The recent surge in millennial population growth, driven by international migration, is reshaping Canada’s demographic makeup. While the millennial generation has provided a temporary buffer against the aging population, this trend will not last forever. As Canada continues to evolve, international migration will remain a key factor in maintaining population growth and ensuring the country’s economic stability.
For now, millennials are helping to keep Canada young, vibrant, and growing. However, as the country prepares for the long-term challenges of an aging population, continued efforts to attract young, skilled immigrants will be crucial for sustaining the economy and supporting future generations.