What the Latest Survey Reveals About Sense of Belonging Among Youth in Canada

Belonging is more than a feeling. It shapes how young people see themselves, how they connect with others, and how they build confidence and identity within their communities. A recent analysis of data from the Canadian Social Survey (2021 to 2024) provides new insight into the sense of belonging among youth in Canada. The study focuses on individuals aged 15 to 29 and examines how age, environment, and personal experience influence their connection to the places and people around them.

Younger Teens Report a Stronger Sense of Community

The data shows a noticeable pattern across age groups. Adolescents aged 15 to 19 were the most likely to report a strong sense of belonging to their community. Many in this age group still live with family or attend school in familiar neighborhoods, which can create stable social networks and consistent routines. However, once young people transition into their twenties, they often move for school, work, or new life experiences.

These transitions can reduce their sense of rootedness. Youth aged 20 to 24 reported a lower level of belonging, and this sense reduced even further among those aged 25 to 29. This shift may reflect the uncertainty and adjustment period that often accompanies early adulthood.

Rural Youth Often Feel More Connected Than Urban Youth

Geography plays a meaningful role in shaping social experiences. The study shows that youth who live in rural communities tend to report a stronger sense of belonging than youth living in urban settings. Rural environments often encourage closer relationships between neighbors and more frequent social interactions within the same network. In contrast, larger cities can feel more anonymous, especially for young adults who are still establishing themselves. However, many youth continue to move toward urban centres for employment and education opportunities. Even when the sense of belonging is temporarily weaker during this transition, cities continue to offer diverse cultural, academic, and social spaces where young adults can eventually form new connections.

Belonging Strongly Influences Health and Emotional Well-Being

A key finding in the data is the strong link between belonging and personal well-being. Youth who reported a strong sense of belonging were more likely to describe both their physical and mental health positively. They were also more likely to express confidence in their friendships, feel supported by others, and hold an optimistic outlook on their future. In contrast, those who felt a weaker sense of belonging were more likely to report feelings of loneliness and uncertainty. These patterns suggest that belonging plays a vital role in mental resilience and life satisfaction.

Social Inclusion Matters for Equitable Well Being

Not all youth have the same experience with belonging. The study indicates that some groups face more challenges in forming strong community ties. For example, 2SLGBTQ+ youth and youth with disabilities were less likely to report a strong sense of belonging. Meanwhile, youth from certain cultural backgrounds, particularly South Asian and Arab communities, were more likely to report feeling connected to their community.

These differences highlight the importance of inclusive support systems, community programs, social acceptance, and safe spaces where young people feel valued.

Why This Matters for Canada’s Future

The sense of belonging among youth in Canada has long-term implications. When young people feel connected to their community, they are more likely to participate in local activities, maintain meaningful friendships, and develop a stable sense of identity. Strong belonging contributes to healthier communities, greater social cohesion, and a confident next generation.

As Canada continues to welcome newcomers and grow its population, fostering belonging among youth remains a meaningful goal. It supports personal well-being, strengthens communities, and contributes to a positive social landscape. For such timely updates, stay tuned with Canada Immigration News!