Port Alberni, BC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
18,259
1.4 % year-over-year change
Median household income
$62,800/yr
Private dwellings
8,919

Port Alberni population

How many people live in Port Alberni

Port Alberni is home to 18,259 residents, based on Statistics Canada's 2024 population estimate. Of these, 48.9% identify as male and 51.1% as female.

Total population
18,259
1.4% year-over-year change
Population density
928.9/km2
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
8,925
Female
51.1%
9,335
Value Percent
Male 8,925 48.9%
Female 9,335 51.1%
A larger population often brings more rental variety and a busier pace of life. The gender breakdown, namely the ratio of men to women in the area, offers clues about the community’s vibe and social landscape.

Age demographics

The average age in Port Alberni is 46.5. Children under 15 make up 14.1% of the population, while youth and young adults account for 9.2%. Those in their working years are spread across the following age groups: 11% are 25 to 34, 11.1% are 35 to 44, and 11.3% are 45 to 54. Adults nearing retirement—aged 55 to 64—represent 15.9% of the population, while seniors 65 and over make up 27.4%.

Average age
46.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.1%
15 to 24
9.2%
25 to 34
11%
35 to 44
11.1%
45 to 54
11.3%
55 to 64
15.9%
Over 65
27.4%
Value Percent
Under 15 2,580 14.1%
15 to 24 1,675 9.2%
25 to 34 2,005 11%
35 to 44 2,030 11.1%
45 to 54 2,065 11.3%
55 to 64 2,900 15.9%
Over 65 4,995 27.4%
Age distribution gives you a glimpse into who makes up the area. Younger communities might feel more energetic or student-friendly, while older ones tend to be calmer and more settled. A mix of age groups usually means a balance of parks, schools, healthcare, and other services for all walks of life.

Residence status

In Port Alberni, 89.4% of residents were born in Canada, while 10% have settled here from abroad. Another 0.6% are non-permanent residents, such as temporary workers or international students.

Immigration status
Non-immigrants
89.4%
Immigrants
10%
Non-permanent residents
0.6%
Value Percent
Non-immigrants 16,060 89.4%
Immigrants 1,795 10%
Non-permanent residents 100 0.6%
Minority breakdown
Minorities
6.2%
Non-minorities
93.8%
Value Percent
Minorities 1,120 6.2%
Non-minorities 16,835 93.8%
Knowing how many people in the area are newcomers, temporary residents, or Canadian-born can give you a feel for how established or internationally connected a community is. It may also hint at the kind of services, food, and cultural touchpoints you’ll find nearby.
Languages used in Port Alberni
English
98.5%
French
1.2%
English and French
0.1%
Neither English nor French
0.2%
Value Percent
English 17,765 98.5%
French 225 1.2%
English and French 10 0.1%
Neither English nor French 35 0.2%

Primary languages spoken

According to the latest Census data, 98.5% of people in Port Alberni speak English as their primary language, 1.2% communicate mainly in French, 0.1% are bilingual, and 0.2% use other languages.

Language use shapes everything from signage to services. Whether you're looking for bilingual support or just curious about the local vibe, these stats give a quick peek at how people connect day-to-day.

Households in Port Alberni

A peek inside Port Alberni households

Port Alberni has 8,450 households, with an average of 2.1 people living in each. One-person households make up 35.3% of all homes, while 38.3% are shared by two people. Three-person households represent 12.8%, and homes with four or more people account for 13.6% of the total.

Households stats

Total households
8,450
Average people per household
2.1
1 person
35.3%
2 persons
38.3%
3 persons
12.8%
4 persons
8.9%
5 or more persons
4.7%
Value Percent
1 person 2,980 35.3%
2 persons 3,240 38.3%
3 persons 1,080 12.8%
4 persons 755 8.9%
5 or more persons 395 4.7%
Household size can reveal a lot about how people live in the area. More one- and two-person homes might hint at a mix of young professionals or empty nesters, while larger households often reflect families or multi-generational setups. It’s a good indicator of the kinds of rentals and living spaces you'll find nearby.

Housing in Port Alberni

The housing landscape of Port Alberni

Port Alberni has a total of 8,919 private dwellings. Among the occupied dwellings, 67.8% are single-detached houses, 28.6% are attached homes such as townhouses or semi-detached units, and 1.7% are apartments. When it comes to space, Port Alberni offers a variety of home sizes: 14% of occupied homes have 1 bedroom or less, 59% have 2–3 bedrooms, and 27.6% have 4 or more bedrooms.

Total private dwellings
8,919
Housing types
Single-detached homes
67.8%
Attached homes
28.6%
Apartments
1.7%
Movable homes
1.9%
Value Percent
Single-detached homes 5,730 67.8%
Attached homes 2,420 28.6%
Apartments 140 1.7%
Movable homes 160 1.9%
Housing size
1 or no bedrooms
14%
2 or 3 bedrooms
59%
4 or more bedrooms
27.6%
Value Percent
1 or no bedrooms 1,160 14%
2 or 3 bedrooms 4,955 59%
4 or more bedrooms 2,325 27.6%
Homes built since 2011
560

The age of buildings in Port Alberni

About 13.1% of homes were built before 1945, followed by 25.2% between 1946 and 1960. Another 19.5% went up in the 1960s, 16.4% in the 1970s, and 6.6% during the 1980s. Between 1991 and 2000, 7.2% of homes were added, and 5.3% were developed between 2001 and 2010.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent
Before 1945 1,105 13.1%
Between 1946 and 1960 2,130 25.2%
Between 1961 and 1970 1,650 19.5%
Between 1971 and 1980 1,385 16.4%
Between 1981 and 1990 555 6.6%
Between 1991 and 2000 610 7.2%
Between 2001 and 2010 450 5.3%
After 2011 560 6.6%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Port Alberni occupancy rates

In Port Alberni, there are 8,451 occupied private dwellings, of which 68.8% are owner-occupied and 31.2% are rented. Meanwhile, 468 dwellings sit vacant.

Occupied dwellings
8,451
Occupancy breakdown
Rented households
31.2%
Owned households
68.8%
Value Percent
Rented households 2,635 31.2%
Owned households 5,820 68.8%
Unoccupied dwellings
468
Understanding whether homes are owned or rented gives insight into the housing market’s stability and flexibility. High ownership rates may point to longer-term residents and more stable neighbourhoods, while a greater share of rentals can indicate mobility, availability, or housing diversity. Vacancy levels can also hint at supply-and-demand dynamics for renters.

Shelter costs

In Port Alberni, homeowners pay a median of $870 per month on shelter costs, while renters spend around $950. About 78.5% of households spend less than 30% of their income on housing, while 21.5% exceed that threshold.

Median monthly shelter costs for owned dwellings
$870
Median monthly shelter costs for rented dwellings
$950
Income spent on housing
<30% on shelter
78.5%
≥30% on shelter
21.5%
Value Percent
<30% on shelter 6,625 78.5%
≥30% on shelter 1,810 21.5%
Shelter cost includes all monthly expenses tied to housing—like rent or mortgage, property taxes, utilities, and additional fees. Owners usually cover a wider range of costs, while renters typically just pay rent plus basic services. Comparing these numbers gives a clearer view of what living in the area actually costs, and whether households are stretched beyond the 30% affordability benchmark.

Education in Port Alberni

Port Alberni education at a glance

In Port Alberni, educational attainment varies across the community. About 22.2% of residents have no formal diploma, while 31.9% have completed high school and 12.3% hold an apprenticeship certificate. Meanwhile, 18.9% have graduated from college. Finally, 3.4% earned a non-bachelor university diploma, and 11.3% hold a university degree.

Education level
Value Percent
No diploma 3,425 22.2%
High school diploma 4,905 31.9%
Apprenticeship diploma 1,895 12.3%
College diploma 2,910 18.9%
University diploma (below bachelor diploma) 520 3.4%
University degree 1,735 11.3%
Education levels give a snapshot of the local talent pool and job readiness. A strong share of college and university graduates can mean better access to skilled jobs, while trades and apprenticeship diplomas often support hands-on industries. For renters, these stats help paint a picture of the economic opportunities and workforce makeup in the area.

Income in Port Alberni

How much people earn in Port Alberni

In Port Alberni, the median household income sits at $62,800, while the median after-tax household income is $58,400.

Median household income
$62,800/year
Median after-tax household income
$58,400/year
Household income—especially after tax—offers one of the clearest indicators of how affordable a place might feel. It also helps renters understand earning power in the area, whether they're budgeting for rent or comparing communities with similar price tags. Local income trends can reveal whether the economy is growing, steady, or facing challenges.

Port Alberni income by age

Young adults in Port Alberni between 15 and 24 have a median income of $18,400, often reflecting part-time or early career work. For those aged 25 to 34, when many are advancing in their jobs, the figure rises to $40,400, and by 35 to 44 it reaches $48,400. Among individuals 45 to 54, the median wage is $45,600, followed by $37,600 for those in their pre-retirement years. Finally, residents over 65, many of whom are already retired, typically earn $31,800.

Income breakdown by age
Value
15 - 24 18,400
25 - 34 40,400
35 - 44 48,400
45 - 54 45,600
55 - 64 37,600
Over 65 31,800

Employment in Port Alberni

Workforce and job sectors in Port Alberni

In Port Alberni, 7,980 residents are part of the labour force, with an unemployment rate of 9.9%. The local economy spans a wide range of sectors. Notably, sales and service, trades and transport, and education, law, community and government services employ the largest shares of the working population, shaping the city's job market.

Workforce demographics

Labour force
7,980
Unemployment rate
9.9%
Major job markets
Value Percent
Management 60 0.8%
Business, finance and administration 850 11%
Natural and applied sciences 285 3.7%
Health 795 10.3%
Education, law, community and government services 1,030 13.4%
Art, culture, recreation and sport 175 2.3%
Sales and service 2,165 28.1%
Trades and transport 1,620 21%
Natural resources and agriculture 345 4.5%
Manufacturing and utilities 390 5.1%
Knowing what kinds of jobs dominate the area can help you understand local culture, income levels, and day-to-day rhythms. When looking for a community that suits your lifestyle, these labour stats offer helpful clues.

Transportation in Port Alberni

How people get around in Port Alberni

In Port Alberni, the average commute is 18 minutes. About 89% of residents get to work by car, truck, or van, while 2.2% rely on public transit and 6.6% walk or bike. The remaining 2.3% use other methods, such as scooters or motorcycles.

Average commute time
18 min
Travel time
Less than 15 minutes
68.4%
15 to 29 minutes
15.2%
30 to 44 minutes
5.6%
45 to 59 minutes
3.1%
More than 60 minutes
7.7%
Value Percent
Less than 15 minutes 4,465 68.4%
15 to 29 minutes 990 15.2%
30 to 44 minutes 365 5.6%
45 to 59 minutes 205 3.1%
More than 60 minutes 505 7.7%
Means of transportation
Value Percent
By car, truck or van 5,805 89%
By public transit 140 2.2%
By bicycle/by walking 430 6.6%
By other methods 150 2.3%
Commute trends hint at both the layout and vibe of a place. If most people drive or take transit, the area may be more spread out. Shorter commutes suggest convenient access to jobs, while longer ones may confirm the area’s low-density layout.

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FAQs about Port Alberni demographics 

What is the current total population in Port Alberni?

Port Alberni has a population of 18,259, according to Statistics Canada’s official 2024 figure, as published in their Annual Demographic Estimates: Subprovincial Areas report. This represents a +1.4% change compared to the previous year. 

What is the population density of Port Alberni?  

Port Alberni has a population density of 928.9 people per square kilometre. 

What is the gender distribution in Port Alberni?

Port Alberni has the following gender distribution:
  • 48.9% males (8,925 residents)  
  • 51.1% females (9,335 residents)

What is the age distribution of Port Alberni residents?  

The age distribution of Port Alberni residents is as follows: 
  • Under 15: 14.1% (2,580 residents)   
  • 15-24: 9.2% (1,675 residents)   
  • 25-34: 11% (2,005 residents)   
  • 35-44: 11.1% (2,030 residents)   
  • 45-54: 11.3% (2,065 residents)   
  • 55-64: 15.9% (2,900 residents)   
  • Over 64: 27.4% (4,995 residents)  

What is the population distribution by immigration status in Port Alberni? 

Here’s the population distribution by immigration status in Port Alberni: 
  • 89.4% non-immigrants (16,060 residents)  
  • 10% immigrants (1,795 residents)  
  • 0.6% non-permanent residents (100 residents)  

What are the primary languages spoken in Port Alberni?  

Here’s a breakdown of the languages spoken in Port Alberni: 
  • English: 98.5% 
  • French: 1.2% 
  • English and French: 0.1% 
  • Neither English nor French: 0.2% 

What is the typical household size in Port Alberni?  

The typical household size in Port Alberni is 2.1 people. 

What is the median household income in Port Alberni?  

The median household income in Port Alberni is $62,800 annually, according to Statistics Canada’s latest release—Census Profile, 2021 Census of Population. 

What is the educational attainment level of Port Alberni residents?  

The educational attainment breakdown in Port Alberni is as follows: 
  • No diploma: 22.2% (3,425 residents) 
  • High school diploma: 31.9% (4,905 residents) 
  • Apprenticeship diploma: 12.3% (1,895 residents) 
  • College diploma: 18.9% (2,910 residents) 
  • University diploma (below bachelor): 3.4% (520 residents) 
  • University degree: 11.3% (1,735 residents) 

What are the most common occupations in Port Alberni?  

The most common occupations in Port Alberni fall within the sectors listed below:
  • Art, culture, recreation and sport: 2.3% 
  • Business, finance and administration: 11% 
  • Education, law, community and government services: 13.4% 
  • Health: 10.3% 
  • Management: 0.8% 
  • Manufacturing and utilities: 5.1% 
  • Natural and applied sciences: 3.7% 
  • Natural resources and agriculture: 4.5% 
  • Sales and service: 28.1% 
  • Trades and transport: 21% 

Data source & methodology

Demographic data shown in this section was gathered from the latest census data from Statistics Canada (2021), with the total population figure reflecting the official 2024 population estimate.
Census aggregated data represented here is extracted from Data Tables, by topic, at the census subdivision area level.
Differences may be found between the totals of the various categories due to multiple variables.
The information is updated as soon as new data is made available. No representation, guarantee or warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information.

Page last updated: September 2025