Pakistani Canadians - Demographics

Demographics

Figures from the 2006 Canadian Census from StatsCan indicate that there are about 124,000 Canadians who claim Pakistani ancestry. There are however sources which show the data maybe inaccurate and is likely to be more than double this figure. With some sources estimating that the Pakistani Canadian population maybe as high as 250,000 and the Canadian Government quoting a figure of over 300,000, adding that "they continue to make significant contributions to the prosperity and multi-cultural fabric of Canada."

• Toronto

Toronto has the largest Pakistani community in Canada, with the majority living in the localities of Rexdale, East York and its western suburb Mississauga. The center of Toronto's Pakistani community can be found on Gerrard Street East, in East York. A large Pakistani population resides in this area, and is home to many Pakistani restaurants and stores. Popular days to visit the street are during Eid and Yom-e-Istiqlal. Toronto's Pakistani community is quite diverse with people from Punjabi, Muhajirs, Kashmiri, Pashtuns and Sindhi backgrounds. A small proportion also reside in the Greater Toronto Area, including the cities of Hamilton, Markham, Richmond Hill, Pickering and Guelph.

• Vancouver

Vancouver has one of the fastest growing Pakistani communities in Canada. Most Pakistanis who live in the city of Vancouver reside in areas such as Burnaby and Surrey, which is home to Punjabi Market. Other areas include Abbotsford, New Westminster and North Vancouver.