Regional Statistics
MIFCNS' geographic area of focus is the central region of Vancouver Island which encompasses the communities of Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Duncan, Ladysmith, Port Alberni, Tofino and Ucluelet.
- By 2015 the central Vancouver Island population is predicted to increase by over a third.
- During this time the over-85 age group will double.
- Mid Vancouver Island is the top retirement destination for older Canadians. This trend is forecast to continue as the baby boom (1946-1965) generation reaches retirement age.
- The Regional District of Nanaimo is the 5th most populous region in BC and is one of the fastest growing with recreation, retirement and tourism being the main drivers.
-
Of the 6 oldest municipalities (5,000 + population) in Canada, HALF are central Vancouver Island communities: Qualicum Beach, number one, median age of 58.1; Parksville, number five, median age of 49.6 and Nanaimo, number six, median age of 49.5.
-
British Columbians live longer on average (2001 average life expectancy 80.7 years, 80.9 in 2004) than residents anywhere else in Canada and are second only to Japan in longest average life expectancy in the world.