Insights
Profile of Muslims in Canada
A demographic and cultural overview of the Muslim community in Canada.
Population Growth
The Muslim population in Canada reached 1,775,710 in 2021, up from 1,053,945 in 2011, now constituting 4.9% of the national population.
Immigration Trends
63.1% of Muslims in Canada are immigrants, with the majority coming from Asia (64.7%) and Africa (29.1%).
High-Density Areas
Muslims are predominantly urban, with significant populations in the Greater Toronto Area (10.2%), Montreal (8.9%), Ottawa, Calgary, and Edmonton.
Languages Spoken
Arabic is the most common mother tongue, followed by Urdu, Bengali, Persian, Somali, and Turkish. 95% are fluent in one or both official languages.
Education & Employment
60% of Muslims over 15 have post-secondary education. However, 13.9% face unemployment, with 62% of Canadian-born Muslim professionals not working in their trained fields.
Halal Industry Growth
The halal food market in Canada was valued at $10.39 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach $18.34 billion by 2032, with increasing retail expansion.
Housing & Challenges
Muslims face challenges in housing, including discrimination and a lack of halal financing options, alongside high living costs.
Mosques in Canada
Canada is home to 755 mosques as of December 2024, reflecting the community's growth and diversification.
Cultural Diversity
Over 60 ethnocultural groups are represented among Canadian Muslims, with the largest being South Asians (37.6%) and Arabs (32.2%).
Strengths of Canadian Muslims
Resilience and Adaptability
Despite systemic barriers, Canadian Muslims exhibit resilience through initiatives combating Islamophobia and promoting youth empowerment.
Education and Skills
High levels of educational attainment make Canadian Muslims a vital intellectual and professional resource for the country.
Cultural Richness
The diversity within the Muslim community fosters rich cultural exchanges and interfaith dialogue, enhancing Canadian society.
Youth Demographics
A young and growing population offers significant long-term contributions to Canada's economic and social fabric.
Challenges Faced by Canadian Muslims
Economic Disparities
Persistent unemployment and underemployment undermine the economic stability of many Muslim families.
Limited Representation
Political underrepresentation and negative media portrayals restrict the community's influence in shaping policies.
Lack of Cohesion
Cultural and sectarian differences, while a strength in diversity, sometimes hinder unified community efforts.
Islamophobia
Systemic and social prejudices reduce opportunities and create barriers to full societal participation.