Where is the Largest Ukrainian Population in Canada?

Canada is home to 1.4 million people of Ukrainian descent, making it one of the largest diaspora communities worldwide. The Ukrainian presence in Canada is intertwined with its agricultural landscape and historical migration patterns. Many ancestors of Ukrainians in Canada were drawn to the country for the opportunity to obtain 160 acres of free farmland on the Canadian prairies, which are very similar in conditions to Ukraine.

Map of Ukrainian Canadians by Province

The map below outlines the distribution of Ukrainian Canadians across different provinces:

Dark blue: 10% or more of the population Medium blue: 5% to 10% of the population Light blue: 3% to 5% of the population

These regions have seen significant Ukrainian migration, particularly from World War II to 1991, when political refugees and displaced persons tended to settle in southern Ontario, southern Quebec, and the Lower Mainland of British Columbia.

Significant Ukrainian Populations

ProvinceAbsolut e PopulationPercentage of Population Ontario376,4402.8% Alberta369,0909.3% British Columbia229,2055.0% 180,05514.5% Saskatchewan143,70013.4%

With the ongoing war in Ukraine, it is likely that there will be a significant influx of additional Ukrainian refugees, further impacting the demographic landscape.

The Largest Provinces for Ukrainian Population

Among the provinces, both Saskatchewan and Alberta have sizable Ukrainian populations:

Saskatchewan: Approximately 1 out of 8 people can trace their ancestry back to there. Manitoba: While smaller, it still holds a significant Ukrainian community, contributing to 14.5% of its population.

Interestingly, the city of Edmonton is often referred to as “Edmonchuk,” a term that reflects the large Ukrainian population in that area. This nickname highlights the strong cultural influence of Ukrainians in the city.

Canada has seen a significant increase in Ukrainian immigration, especially from Ukraine itself. As political and social conditions change, the country has become a preferred destination for refugees and those seeking better opportunities. The combination of historical agricultural opportunities and modern demographic needs has led to the establishment of Ukrainian communities throughout Canada.