Toronto's Immigrant Population: 58.7% Foreign-Born (2016 Census)

According to the 2016 Canadian Census, 1,605,352 of Toronto's 2,731,571 residents—58.7%—were immigrants. This makes Toronto one of the world's most foreign-born-majority cities, surpassing Miami (58%), Vancouver (42%), and New York (37%).

Top Source Countries (2016)

• Philippines – ~156,000
• China – ~149,000
• India – ~120,000
• Sri Lanka – ~80,000
• Jamaica – ~73,000
• Pakistan – ~65,000
• Iran – ~55,000
• Hong Kong – ~50,000
• Italy – ~48,000
• Poland – ~45,000

Recent Trends (2021 Census Preview)

The 2021 Census showed Toronto's immigrant share rising to ~46.6% of the CMA (metro) and likely similar for the city proper. Top sources shifted: India and Philippines now lead; China third. Africa and Middle East shares growing. Final 2021 city-level data pending full release.

What This Means

• Language diversity – 180+ languages spoken; 47% mother tongue non-official
• Economic engine – Immigrants fill labor gaps across sectors; high entrepreneurship rates
• Cultural fabric – Neighborhoods like Chinatown, Koreatown, Little India, Little Jamaica, Corso Italia, Greektown
• Policy implications – Settlement services, credential recognition, housing, transit all shaped by demographic reality

Beyond the Numbers

Toronto's motto "Diversity Our Strength" isn't aspirational—it's demographic fact. The city functions because of its immigrant majority, not despite it. Understanding Toronto means understanding its newcomer communities.