Four detailed charts show the extent to which Quebec’s population is aging – and it doesn’t look like slowing any time soon.
Over the last 50 years, the fertility rate (number of children per woman) has plummeted to just under two, while retiring Quebec baby-boomers will continue to outnumber younger workers in the future.
Contrasting the decline in natural growth (births minus deaths), the province has seen an increase in net migration (those coming in minus those leaving) due primarily to the influx of non-permanent residents such as temporary workers, foreign students, and asylum seekers.
According to experts, immigration and increased participation in the labour market must occur in tandem to offset the impact of Quebec’s aging demographic.