Burnaby is one of British Columbia’s most multicultural and dynamic cities, with a steadily growing and diversifying population that reflects both historical development and modern migration trends. Located in the heart of Metro Vancouver, Burnaby has transformed from a modest community in the early 20th century into one of Canada’s most internationally connected urban centres.
Population Growth Over Time
Burnaby’s population has seen steady growth over the last century. From just under 13,000 residents in 1921, the city has grown to 249,125 people as of the 2021 Canadian Census. This marks a 7% increase since 2016, and a nearly twentyfold increase since the 1920s. Today, the city covers a land area of 90.57 km², with a population density of 2,750.6 people per km², making it one of the more densely populated areas in British Columbia.
Age and Urban Structure
As of 2016, the median age in Burnaby was 40.3 years, slightly younger than the provincial average of 43.0. The city’s mix of families, young professionals, students, and seniors reflects its appeal to a broad range of demographics. With town centres such as Metrotown, Brentwood, and Lougheed, Burnaby attracts both long-time residents and newcomers drawn to its modern housing, transit access, and educational institutions.
Ethnic and Cultural Diversity
Burnaby is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in Canada. According to the 2021 Census, residents of East Asian heritage made up 38.6% of the population, with the ethnic Chinese community being the single largest group at 33.3%. European ancestry accounts for 30.5%, followed by South Asian (9.4%), Southeast Asian (8.4%), and Middle Eastern (3.7%) populations. Communities from Latin America, Africa, and Indigenous backgrounds also form important parts of the city’s cultural fabric.
Neighbourhoods such as North Burnaby have long-standing cultural communities, including Italian-Canadian heritage, while areas like Metrotown have seen significant growth due to immigration from Hong Kong, Taiwan, China, and South Korea since the 1990s.
Languages Spoken
Burnaby is home to a wide range of languages. While English remains the most common mother tongue (41.3%), over half of residents speak a first language other than English or French. The most spoken non-official languages include:
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Mandarin – 14.5%
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Cantonese – 12.3%
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Tagalog – 3.4%
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Korean – 3.1%
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Punjabi, Spanish, and Persian also have notable communities.
This linguistic diversity is reflected in the city’s schools, services, and cultural programming, making Burnaby an inclusive and globally connected place to live and visit.
Religion and Belief Systems
As of 2021, Burnaby’s population reflects Canada’s broader trend toward religious plurality and secularism. Nearly half the population (48.4%) identifies with no religion, while Christianity remains the largest faith group at 35.2%. Other faiths with significant representation include:
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Islam – 5.6%
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Buddhism – 3.7%
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Hinduism – 3.1%
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Sikhism – 2.8%
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Judaism, Indigenous spirituality, and other beliefs account for smaller portions.
This diversity is visible across Burnaby in the form of churches, temples, mosques, and cultural centres, many of which are open to the public and contribute to the city’s inclusive atmosphere.
A City of Many Stories
Burnaby’s demographics tell a story of transformation what began as a modest agricultural community has evolved into a major urban hub with one of the most multicultural populations in Canada. This diversity is more than numbers—it shapes the city’s identity, values, cuisine, festivals, and daily life. Whether you’re visiting or planning to stay, Burnaby offers a welcoming environment where the world comes together.