Quebec's population is shifting - and not every region will grow the same way
New demographic projections from the Institut de la statistique du Québec indicate uneven population growth across the province through 2051. While suburban areas near Montreal and Quebec City are expected to grow, the island of Montreal and remote regions like Côte-Nord may face population declines.
Why it matters
These trends highlight the challenges of aging populations and shifting urban migration patterns, which will impact future infrastructure and policy planning in Quebec.
New projections from the Institut de la statistique du Québec (ISQ) suggest population growth will become increasingly uneven across the province.
While some regions are expected to continue attracting residents, others — including Montreal — could see its population shrink if current demographic trends continue.
The projections reflect broader demographic challenges facing Quebec, including lower birth rates and an aging population.
Parts of Quebec could see its population shrink over the coming decades. (Source: Institut de la statistique du Québec) According to the ISQ’s reference scenario, the Capitale-Nationale region is expected to record the strongest long-term growth through 2051, followed by the Chaudière-Appalaches region .
Quebec City's metropolitan area and the Drummondville metropolitan area are also projected to have some of the province’s highest population increases.
Across Quebec, the outlook varies considerably by region.
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