Where South Asians Live in Canada: A Comprehensive Overview

Canada, known for its rich multiculturalism, hosts a thriving South cultural diversity and commitment to Asian community that has witnessed remarkable growth in recent decades. With over 2.3 million individuals of South Asian heritage residing in the country, understanding the distribution of this community across various provinces and metropolitan areas is essential for newcomers and existing residents alike. Defining South Asian: Statistics Canada categorizes individuals of South Asian descent as those originating from countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan. Indians comprise the largest subgroup within this demographic, followed by Pakistanis, Sri Lankans, Bangladeshis, and Nepalis.

Provincial Breakdown: Examining the distribution of South Asian communities across Canada’s provinces reveals significant concentrations in key regions: Ontario: Home to the largest South Asian population in Canada, Ontario boasts over a million individuals of South Asian descent, with notable centers including Toronto (1.1 million), Ottawa (62,095), Kitchener (52,110), Hamilton (47,570), and Oshawa (39,810).British Columbia (B.C.): Following Ontario, B.C. hosts a substantial South Asian community, with Vancouver (333,385) leading the pack, followed by Abbotsford (43,855), Victoria (13,405), Kelowna (6,925), and Kamloops (3,885). Alberta: Alberta ranks third in terms of South Asian population, with Calgary (138,280) and Edmonton (109,615) emerging as primary hubs, along with Wood Buffalo (4,310), Lethbridge (2,790), and Red Deer (2,240).

Metropolitan Areas and Census

Agglomerations (CMAs/CAs): Zooming in on specific metropolitan areas and census agglomerations sheds light on where South Asians are most prevalent within each province:

Ontario: Toronto stands as the epicenter of South Asian culture and community, followed by Ottawa, Kitchener, Hamilton, and Oshawa.

British Columbia (B.C.): Vancouver boasts the highest concentration of South Asians, with Abbotsford, Victoria, Kelowna, and Kamloops also hosting sizable communities.

Alberta: Calgary and Edmonton serve as major South Asian hubs in Alberta, alongside Wood Buffalo, Lethbridge, and Red Deer.

Other Notable CMAs: Beyond the three aforementioned provinces, several other metropolitan areas across Canada host significant South Asian populations: Quebec: Montréal ranks prominently, with a notable South Asian presence (128,280), followed by other regions like Winnipeg (Manitoba) (56,180), Saskatoon and Regina (Saskatchewan) (14,560 and 14,285 respectively), and Halifax (Nova Scotia) (12,925). Understanding the geographical distribution of South Asian communities in Canada provides valuable insights for individuals seeking to connect with their cultural roots and communities. Additionally, it underscores the multicultural fabric that defines Canada’s identity, celebrating diversity while fostering inclusivity and social cohesion.