As the country’s overall population goes grey, Brampton ranks as one of Canada’s youngest big cities, according to Statistics Canada census data released on Wednesday.

The average Bramptonian was just 36.5 years of age in 2016. In comparison, Calgary boasted an average age of 37.6 years. This compares to an average age of 39.7 for the GTA, 41 for the province, and a nationwide average age of 41 years.

“Our youth are a key strength in bringing vitality, energy and innovation to our city,” said Mayor Linda Jeffrey, adding the demographics continue to drive some of the city’s key initiatives such as the university.

While Brampton ranked among the youngest Canadian cities, the contingent of seniors continued to outpace national trends.

With baby boomers reaching retirement age, the nation saw its biggest increase in the proportion of seniors since Confederation.

The first baby boomers turning 65 in 2011 led to the largest increase (+20.0 per cent) in the number of people 65 years of age and older in Canada in 70 years. By comparison, Canada's overall population grew by 5 per cent from 2011 to 2016, and the number of children 14 years of age and younger increased by 4.1 per cent.

Centenarians were the fastest-growing population from 2011 to 2016 (+41.3 per cent). This population has been growing rapidly for a number of years, mainly due to the gradual increase in life expectancy.

Statistics Canada will release additional information over the coming months, including Families, Households and Marital Status and Language in August.

For more detailed census information on Brampton, visit www.brampton.ca/census, call 905-874-2650 or email edo@brampton.ca.

