About Our LHIN
Central is the most populous LHIN in Ontario. Our LHIN is home to over 1.6 million residents. Our population resides primarily in northern Toronto, the suburban communities north of the city commonly known as the “905” area and along the Highway 400 corridor. Between 1994-2004 our population grew, on average, by 3.1 per cent each year. This was much greater than the 1.5 per cent annual population increase seen in Ontario during the same period.
The Central LHIN is home to many of Ontario’s most diverse communities. We have the highest proportion of immigrants--newcomers as well as those who made a home for themselves many years ago. A large percentage of visible minorities also reside in our LHIN. Recent immigrants make up 10 per cent of the Central LHIN’s population - double the provincial average. Newcomers are concentrated in certain municipalities in our LHIN, particularly Toronto, Richmond Hill, Markham and Vaughan. These municipalities also contain the highest number of people whose mother tongue is neither English nor French. The highest proportion of visible minorities, also reside in these communities, contributing to the diversity, complexity and vibrancy of our LHIN.
Our LHIN has a slightly lower proportion of seniors and children than the provincial average. Seniors 65 years or older make up 13 per cent of Ontario’s population, compared to the Central LHIN’s 11 per cent. In fact, all of the Central LHIN’s municipalities are below the provincial average except for Tecumseth and Toronto. Bradford West Gwillimbury and Essa are notable as communities with the lowest percentage of seniors. Generally it is in our high population density areas where the majority of seniors and children (age 20 or less) reside.
It also should be noted that the Central LHIN has significant numbers of low-income residents. The percentage of low-income residents is slightly higher than the provincial average. Many of our low-income dwellers are concentrated in northern Toronto and a number of our remote rural areas. Income level can be a determining factor of health status and outcomes.
Reports
Primary Care Profile: Central LHIN
View a document giving an overview of the population of Central LHIN
View an excellent Socio-Economic Indicators Atlas of Central LHIN