The Demographic Reality of Canada’s Population South of Seattle

The often-misquoted statement that 'most Canadians live south of Seattle' is a common misconception. This article aims to clarify the demographics and provide an accurate understanding of the Canadian population's distribution, particularly in relation to Seattle.

Population Distribution and Major Cities

The geographic reality is that about 75% of Canada’s population lives within 160 kilometers (100 miles) of the U.S. border. Major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are all situated relatively close to the border. This concentration of population is a key demographic reality that shapes various aspects of life, including socio-economic patterns and cultural dynamics.

Sequences and Geography

Seattle, Washington itself is located just south of the Canadian border. However, it is not unusual for people to confuse the relative positions of urban centers. For instance, Vancouver, which is significantly larger in terms of population and urban sprawl, is located even further south than Seattle. This can lead to the misconception that a large portion of the Canadian population lives south of Seattle.

Geographical Misconceptions

The idea that most Canadians live south of Seattle is another example of a geographical misconception. Let’s break down the numbers:

Canada’s total area is approximately 3.855 million square miles, with a border of 5525 miles. Seattle's area is much smaller, at just 84 square miles, with a width of 32 miles. Canada’s population is around 39 million. If we consider all Canadians living in the three states south of Seattle, including all of Washington, we get approximately 155,383 people, which is less than 0.4% of Canada’s total population.

Adding the Canadian population in the entire United States (which includes states like Michigan, New York, and Washington, among others) brings that number to around 617,948, or about 1.6% of all Canadians living in the U.S.

Key Points and Misunderstandings

The saying often cited serves as a lighthearted reminder of the demographic realities of Canada, emphasizing the concentration of its population near the southern border. However, it’s important to correct any inaccuracies in our understanding:

Population Distribution: About 75% of Canadians live within 160 kilometers (100 miles) of the U.S. border. Sequences and Geography: While Seattle is just south of the border, Vancouver is further south, leading to the misconception. Cultural and Economic Ties: Proximity to the U.S. border fosters strong cultural and economic ties, influencing migration patterns and trade.

Understanding these key points can help clarify the misconception and promote a more accurate understanding of the demographic distribution of Canadians and their proximity to major cities like Seattle and Vancouver.