Population Density
Status: Improving
Population density is a measure of the number of people living in a given area. Higher density can create advantages: more people in a given area to utilize transit, patronize shops and services, and pay the costs of roads and other infrastructure. Higher population density can make a city more walkable and vibrant.
Where are we now?
Saskatoon’s population density is rising — up 14% between 2008 and 2018. Density is a measure of the number of people living in a given land area. However, there are several ways to measure the land area used in density calculations. For the table below, land area was measured by drawing a single perimeter around all substantially completed residential neighbourhoods, including areas where no people live such as the South Saskatchewan River, University of Saskatchewan agricultural lands, industrial areas, and freeway corridors. The map below shows the land area included in calculating density.
Saskatoon Population Density
| 2008 | 2013 | 2018 | |
| Population Density (persons per hectare) | 17.0 | 18.1 | 19.4 |
Source: City of Saskatoon – Planning and Development
The map below shows the perimeter and area used for the density calculation for 2018. It includes all areas within an outer boundary that encompasses substantially completed neighbourhoods. The boundaries and areas for 2008 and 2013 would be smaller, including only the neighbourhoods that were substantially completed in those years.
Source: City of Saskatoon – Planning and Development
What are we doing?
Growth Plan to Half a Million
The City has completed a plan that will guide future development and infrastructure investment.
Neighbourhood Level Infill Development Strategy
Infill describes new homes that are built in existing neighbourhoods. The Infill Strategy ensures that the characteristics of neighbourhoods are maintained as new homes are added.
Garden and Garage Suite Regulations
As part of the Neighbourhood Level Infill Development Strategy, regulations have been developed for small dwelling units that can be constructed on their own or in combination with a detached garage.
River Landing
Construction of new housing is underway by the riverfront edge of downtown and will continue as the City sells additional parcels of land.
New Neighbourhood Development
New neighbourhoods developed by Saskatoon Land are designed to be less vehicle dependent by creating connected, compact, mixed-use communities.
What you can do?
As the Growth Plan is implemented, there will continue to be communications and engagement. Visit http://www.growingfwd.ca/ to subscribe for updates.
Consider the downtown and strategic growth areas when deciding where to live.
Did You Know?
Saskatoon’s population has increased by one-third since 2006.