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Greater Moncton
Greater Moncton
from Wikipedia

Greater Moncton (French: Grand Moncton) is a census metropolitan area comprising Moncton, Dieppe, and Riverview in New Brunswick, Canada.

Key Information

Population

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Greater Moncton has a population of 157,717 (2021). Migration is mostly from other areas of New Brunswick (especially the north), Nova Scotia (13%), and Ontario (9%). 62% of new arrivals to the city are Anglophone and 38% are Francophone.

The census metropolitan area (CMA) grew by 9% between 2016 and 2021. The census metropolitan area had a population of 157,717 as of the 2021 national census,[4] which makes it the largest metropolitan area in the province of New Brunswick and the second-largest in the Maritime Provinces, after Halifax. The CMA includes the city of Dieppe (population 25,384), the town of Riverview (19,667), Moncton Parish (9,811), Memramcook (4,778), Coverdale Parish (4,466), and Salisbury (2,284).

There are 2,990 Aboriginal people living in Moncton, who make up 4.3% of the city's population. There are 3,305 visible minorities in Moncton. Black peoples and South Asians are the largest visible minority groups, comprising 1.7% and 0.7% of the city's population, respectively. There is also a growing Korean community in Moncton.[5][6]

Governance

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The greater Moncton area contains nine of New Brunswick's 49 provincial electoral districts: Moncton Centre, Moncton East, Moncton South, Moncton Southwest, Moncton Northwest, Dieppe, Shediac Bay-Dieppe, Riverview and Albert. Of the nine members of the Legislative Assembly that represent greater Moncton, five belong to the Liberal party and four belong to the Progressive Conservative party.

The current federal MP for Moncton—Riverview—Dieppe is Ginette Petitpas Taylor (Liberal), as of the 2015 and 2019 federal elections.

Tourist attractions

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Located in northwestern Moncton, Magnetic Hill is an attraction famous for its gravity hill optical illusion.

Magnetic Hill is on the northwestern outskirts of Moncton and is now the city's most famous attraction. It is a gravity hill optical illusion, where the local topography gives the impression that you are going uphill when in fact you are going downhill.[7]

The "Magnetic Hill Illusion" is a popular tourism draw and both the city and province have built major tourism developments on the surrounding properties to capitalize on this.[7] The complex includes The Magnetic Hill Zoo, a nationally accredited and award-winning zoo with over 400 animals displayed in themed exhibit areas. It is the largest zoo in Atlantic Canada, has well-developed and popular educational program, and was ranked as the fourth best zoo in Canada in 2007.[8] Also on site is Magic Mountain, the largest water park in Atlantic Canada, with a half dozen large water slides, a lazy river, wave pool, children's splash pool, and a 36-hole mini-golf course.[9] An adjacent amusement park is now under construction and will be completed in 2017. The Magnetic Hill Concert Site, a large outdoor concert facility which holds one or two large concerts every year is located nearby. The Rolling Stones performed there in 2005 in front of 85,000 fans.[10][11] The Eagles played there in the summer of 2008 in front of 55,000 fans.[12] AC/DC and Bon Jovi played at the hill in 2009, with the crowd for the AC/DC concert exceeding 70,000. The Magnetic Hill Concert Site has developed a reputation for holding the largest concert productions in the entire country. U2 played the final concert of their worldwide U2 360° Tour at Magnetic Hill on 30 July 2011. The Casino New Brunswick, which also encompasses a hotel and 2,000 seat entertainment venue also opened at Magnetic Hill in 2010. The performance space at the Casino New Brunswick has already hosted many top acts on the casino circuit.

The main destinations for shopping in Greater Moncton are the Northwest Centre, and the Wheeler Park Power Centre in Moncton, and Champlain Place in Dieppe, which, at 816,000 square feet (75,800 m2),[13] is the largest shopping mall in Atlantic Canada and has over 160 stores and services.[14][15] The Bass Pro Complex is adjacent to Champlain Place and is co-managed by Cadillac Fairview. It includes a Chapters bookstore, multiplex cinema complex and includes a Bass Pro Shop.

Sports

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Greater Moncton has many golfing facilities. There are nine 18-hole golf courses in the census metropolitan area, four of which are residential courses with courseside housing developments either existing or under construction. Both the Royal Oaks and Fox Creek golf clubs can be considered championship courses, with Royal Oaks being the first Rees Jones designed golf course in Canada.[16] Other notable courses include the Moncton Golf & Country Club, Hillsborough Golf Club, Memramcook Valley Golf Club, Maplewood Golf & Country Club and the Mountain Woods Golf Club.

Metro Moncton government services

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List of towns, communities and cities

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See also

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Neighbouring regions

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Greater Moncton, also known as the Moncton Census Metropolitan Area (CMA), is the largest urban region in , , encompassing the cities of , , and Riverview along the in the province's southeast. As of 2024, its population stands at 188,036, reflecting sustained growth driven by interprovincial migration and international newcomers, positioning it as 's second-fastest-growing CMA in recent years. The region functions as the economic engine of , with a diversified anchored in transportation and , retail and , , and services, which together employ a significant portion of the workforce. Its central location and infrastructure, including major highways, rail networks, and the Greater Moncton International Airport, facilitate distribution and commerce across . Bilingualism is a defining feature, with substantial English- and French-speaking populations contributing to a vibrant cultural scene, including attractions like Magnetic Hill, an site drawing tourists annually. Greater Moncton's growth has been marked by housing expansions and infrastructure investments, though rapid increases have strained affordability and , underscoring the need for sustained development in a historically challenged by out-migration. The area's resilience stems from its role as a regional hub, fostering employment in and advanced amid broader economic shifts in resource-dependent .

Geography and Environment

Location and Topography

Greater Moncton, designated as the Moncton Census Metropolitan Area (CMA), encompasses the cities of Moncton, Dieppe, and Riverview, along with surrounding municipalities in southeastern New Brunswick, Canada. The CMA's core is positioned at approximately 46°06′N 64°48′W. It spans a land area of 2,559.05 square kilometres as measured in the 2016 Census. The region lies within the Petitcodiac River Valley, where the river, originating in hills to the northwest, flows generally eastward before turning southward at toward Shepody Bay. This valley terrain is characterized by low-lying flats suitable for urban development, with the exerting significant tidal influence, including a notable bore upstream of . Topographically, Greater Moncton features an average of about 52 metres in the central , rising to rolling hills and ridges in the periphery that form part of the broader Appalachian landscape. Local relief typically ranges from 100 to 200 metres, with glacial deposits and sedimentary underlying the valley floor and adjacent uplands. Nearby features include Lutes Mountain and Indian Mountain, contributing to a mix of valley lowlands and elevated terrains.

Climate Patterns

Greater Moncton experiences a characterized by four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters; mild springs; warm, humid summers; and cool, wet autumns influenced by its inland position in the Maritime provinces. Average annual temperatures range from lows around -12°C in January to highs near 25°C in July, with an overall yearly mean of approximately 6.2°C based on historical data from 1980 to 2016. is distributed throughout the year, totaling about 1,070 mm annually, with the wettest months in October (84 mm rainfall) and December-January combining rain and snow; snowfall averages 167 cm per year, concentrated from November to March. Winters, spanning December to March, feature average highs of -1°C to 2°C and lows of -12°C to -8°C, with frequent events contributing to icy conditions and wind chills; the region records about 167 days annually with minimum temperatures at or below 0°C. Summers, from to , are the warmest, with average highs of 22°C to 24°C and lows of 14°C to 15°C, occasionally reaching 30°C or higher, accompanied by 4-5 muggy days per season due to levels often exceeding 70%. Spring and fall serve as transitional periods, with April-May seeing rising temperatures (highs 10°C to 16°C) and increasing rainfall (50-66 mm monthly), while September-October bring cooling (highs 19°C to 13°C) and peak autumn precipitation, heightening flood risks from the .
MonthAvg High (°C)Avg Low (°C)Rainfall (mm)Snowfall (cm)
January-3-122341
February-1-112041
March4-63134
April1015111
May167661
June2212710
July2515710
August2414660
September1910760
October134840
November6-2769
December0-74631
Data derived from 1980-2016 observations; annual totals approximate. Wind speeds average 9-11 km/h year-round, peaking in winter at 11 km/h, while is highest in winter (60-66%) and lowest in summer (43-47%), contributing to relatively sunny July-August periods with about 8 hours of daily sunshine. Extreme events include record lows of -28°C and highs of 35°C, with notable variability due to the area's exposure to nor'easters and occasional tropical remnants, though long-term patterns show consistent seasonal reliability without pronounced shifts in recent decades per available normals.

Environmental Features and Challenges

The Greater Moncton area encompasses the ecologically significant and its estuary, which experiences one of the world's highest tidal bores due to the extreme tides of the adjacent , creating a dynamic hydrodynamic environment that influences local wetlands, riparian zones, and aquatic habitats. This river system supports diverse species, including migratory birds and fish like , though populations have historically declined due to barriers and . The region forms part of the Fundy Biosphere Reserve, a -designated area spanning 422,310 hectares that highlights coastal forests, tidal marshes, and biodiversity hotspots, fostering urban-nature interfaces through preserved green spaces and urban forests. Environmental challenges in Greater Moncton stem primarily from the tidal river's vulnerability to flooding, with surges and high events—intensified by —causing recurrent inundation in low-lying urban areas, as documented in local adaptation plans projecting increased erosion and infrastructure strain. Water quality issues persist, including cyanobacteria blooms in the Petitcodiac and related watersheds, which prompted temporary upgrades at 's water treatment plant in 2025 to mitigate risks to municipal supplies serving , , and Riverview. Odor complaints from processing and facilities in the north end have led to proposed remediation costing $46–75 million as of 2024, addressing localized air quality degradation. Restoration initiatives have focused on reversing historical damage from the 1968 Petitcodiac Causeway, whose removal in 2010 restored tidal flow, enabling returns and recovery, though full ecological rebound remains ongoing with projects like bank stabilization and removals in tributaries such as Humphreys Brook. Conservation efforts by groups like Sentinelles Petitcodiac Riverkeepers emphasize watershed health, including plantings for soil retention and improved , amid broader pressures from and climate variability.

History

Pre-Colonial and Early European Settlement

The valley, encompassing the area of present-day Greater Moncton, was inhabited by the people for thousands of years prior to European contact, who used the river as a key portage route and resource for hunting, fishing, and seasonal migration within their broader territory across eastern and the Maritime provinces. communities maintained semi-permanent settlements along coastal and riverine areas, relying on dyked marshlands for and maintaining networks with neighboring Wabanaki groups. French exploration of the region began in the early 17th century, with figures like charting coastal areas of , including parts of what became , during voyages in 1604 and subsequent years. Permanent Acadian settlement in the Petitcodiac and river valleys commenced around 1700, as French settlers from established Acadian communities expanded inland for fertile marshlands suitable for diking and farming. By 1733, Acadian pioneers had reached the bend of the —known as Le Coude—establishing small farming hamlets focused on tidal marsh agriculture, which involved constructing aboiteaux (wooden sluices) to reclaim land from tidal floods. Early settlers at Le Coude included families such as Jean Babineau and Isabelle Breau, Joseph Breau and Isabelle Thibodeau, and Charles Thibodeau and Brigitte Breau, who cleared land and developed homesteads amid the river's . These communities, numbering around 10 homesteads by the 1750s in nearby Petitcodiac villages, integrated with local through and complementary land use, though European expansion gradually displaced indigenous patterns. A was constructed near the bend circa , serving as a communal and religious focal point for the growing Acadian presence.

Acadian Period and Expulsion

Acadian settlement along the , encompassing the Greater Moncton area, began in the late , drawn by the river's extensive tidal marshes ideal for agricultural reclamation through dyking techniques honed in earlier colonies. In 1698, Pierre Thibodeau led approximately a dozen families from the Annapolis Basin in to the Shepody region near the Petitcodiac's mouth, establishing one of the earliest outposts in what is now Albert County. The next year, Guillaume Blanchard founded a settlement farther upstream at present-day Hillsborough, expanding Acadian habitation northward. By the 1730s, additional families, including Jean Babineau with Isabelle Breau, Joseph Breau with Isabelle Thibodeau, and Charles Thibodeau with Brigitte Breau, had pioneered Terre-Rouge at The Bend—the elbow of the Petitcodiac River that would become Moncton—transforming marshlands into productive farmland and livestock pastures. The community, later called La Chapelle, included a wooden chapel erected around 1748, reflecting organized religious and social life amid growth to roughly 160 families across Petitcodiac settlements by 1750. These Acadians maintained economic ties to French strongholds like Fort Beauséjour while practicing subsistence farming, milling, and trade, though their neutrality in Anglo-French rivalries grew strained as British colonial authorities consolidated control after the 1713 Treaty of Utrecht ceded mainland Acadia. Tensions escalated during the Seven Years' War (1756–1763), with British officials, under Governor Charles Lawrence, demanding an unconditional oath of allegiance from to affirm loyalty amid fears they might aid French troops or Indigenous allies like the , given their proximity to frontier forts and historical provision of supplies to France. Most rejected the oath, insisting on clauses preserving their right to bear arms only for defense and to practice Catholicism freely, viewing unqualified submission as a betrayal of and prior neutrality pacts. Lawrence, prioritizing territorial security and eyeing Acadian farmlands for Protestant settlers, authorized mass in July 1755, directing troops to seize families, burn structures, and confiscate livestock to prevent reoccupation. In the Petitcodiac region, early deportation attempts in August 1755 under Major Joseph Frye targeted Hopewell Hill and Hillsborough, but , often allied with warriors, ambushed British detachments—such as on September 3 near Petitcodiac—inflicting casualties and enabling over 200 families from the Chipoudy, Petitcodiac, and rivers to flee upstream or into forests. Frye's forces burned homes and crops but deported few, as resisters like dit organized evasion and guerrilla tactics. Renewed British efforts in the 1758 Petitcodiac River campaign, following the fall of Louisbourg, involved provincial rangers and regulars under Colonel George Scott pursuing hidden Acadian bands; while several hundred were eventually deported from rebuilt hamlets, skirmishes resulted in British losses, and the village at The Bend endured until its destruction by fire in November 1758. This resistance, though delaying full clearance, aligned with broader expulsions that displaced around 10,000 Acadians province-wide between 1755 and 1763, with many perishing from disease, shipwrecks, or privation during relocation to British colonies, France, or the Caribbean. Surviving Petitcodiac Acadians either integrated into French-held territories or persisted covertly, averting total eradication in the area.

British Development and Industrial Growth

Following the in 1755–1758 and the British capture of in 1755 under Lieutenant Colonel , the region around the was opened for British settlement. Loyalists arrived in 1784, establishing a community at The Bend, supplemented by German-descended immigrants from who settled there as early as 1766 to exploit timber resources and farmland along the tidal river. These Protestant settlers, encouraged by British land grants to counter French influence, focused initially on agriculture and lumber milling, with the area's deepwater inlet facilitating resource export. The community, renamed in 1855 to honor Monckton, incorporated as a town that year amid rising prosperity. Shipbuilding emerged as a dominant industry in the early to mid-19th century, leveraging abundant local timber and the navigable for constructing wooden vessels. 's strategic location at the head of tidewater enabled it to become a key center, producing sailing ships for global trade and contributing to economic expansion that supported incorporation and infrastructure growth. However, the industry declined sharply in the as steam-powered iron ships rendered wooden hulls obsolete, leading to and population outflows. The arrival of the (ICR) in the 1870s reversed this downturn, with selected as the railway's headquarters and primary maintenance hub due to its central location and existing transport links. Construction of the ICR, mandated as a promise in 1867 and completed in 1876, connected to , spurring job creation in rail yards, shops, and related ; by 1890, had incorporated as a , with the railway fostering diversification into repair works, foundries, and distribution. This infrastructure-driven growth solidified Moncton's role as a regional industrial node, employing thousands and attracting further British capital for secondary industries like food processing precursors.

20th Century Expansion and Post-War Changes

In the early , expanded as a key transportation node following the completion of the National Transcontinental Railway's eastern terminus there, with the Moncton-to-Lévis section operational by 1912 and full connectivity to achieved in 1915. This development, spurred by provincial advocacy for rail infrastructure, facilitated freight distribution and stimulated local manufacturing, including locomotive repair at shops. The city's strategic location enhanced its role in regional commerce, contributing to steady urban development amid broader Maritime industrialization efforts. The interwar decades saw moderated growth amid economic challenges, but catalyzed infrastructure investments, including the establishment of RCAF Station Moncton in 1940 as part of the , which trained pilots and supported aircraft maintenance. Federal expenditures on airfields, army bases, and naval facilities boosted employment and local spending, with the Moncton airfield handling repair work for dozens of . Post-war changes marked a shift toward diversification and , as military sites transitioned to civilian uses, including the conversion of RCAF facilities into the , enhancing air connectivity. Provincial initiatives expanded highways and electricity access, fostering renewed prosperity and attracting , while the formation of Industrial Development—the province's first such organization—promoted business parks and manufacturing hubs on former wartime lands like Scoudouc. These efforts, combined with retail and distribution growth tied to transportation advantages, laid foundations for mid-century urban evolution despite persistent regional outmigration pressures.

Recent Amalgamations and Urban Evolution

In the early 1990s, the government proposed amalgamating the municipalities of , , and Riverview into a unified Greater Moncton entity as part of broader provincial municipal efforts, but the plan faced strong local resistance and was shelved in favor of maintaining separate structures. Instead, expanded through targeted annexations, incorporating contiguous unincorporated areas effective January 1, 1995, under provincial regulation, which adjusted boundaries to include adjacent territories without merging with neighboring cities. These changes allowed to absorb administrative responsibilities for peripheral zones, such as portions of surrounding rural locales, while and Riverview preserved their autonomy; Riverview itself had formed earlier in 1973 via the amalgamation of Bridgedale, Gunningsville, and Riverview villages. More recently, New Brunswick's 2023 local governance reforms prompted further annexations to , effective January 1, 2023, by integrating additional contiguous unincorporated lands, aligning with the province's push to consolidate small entities amid fiscal pressures but stopping short of compelling unity among the core urban trio. This incremental approach underscores ongoing tensions over full amalgamation—evident in 2018 discussions where two of three mayors opposed it—opting instead for cooperative frameworks like the Southeast Regional Service Commission to handle shared services such as and without dissolving municipal identities. Such arrangements have enabled coordinated responses to regional needs while avoiding the administrative disruptions seen in other amalgamated areas like Miramichi in the 1990s. Urban evolution in Greater Moncton has accelerated since the , driven by influx and economic diversification, transforming it into New Brunswick's primary growth hub. The census metropolitan area achieved a 5.4% growth rate in —the fastest among Canadian CMAs—followed by 5.1% expansion from 2023 to , fueled by interprovincial migration and job opportunities in sectors like and call centers. Moncton's 2024 Urban Growth Strategy projects the city's rising from 81,500 in 2021 to 116,200 by 2046, advocating compact development with 73% of recent housing in high-density formats to curb sprawl, prioritize (26% of growth), and bolster revitalization through mixed-use intensification. This strategic shift responds to surging demand, evidenced by 111 residential building permits issued in Moncton's first quarter of 2025, yielding 420 new units and reflecting broader densification trends across the region to accommodate workforce expansion toward 69,900 jobs by 2046. Regional inter-municipal partnerships, including joint planning with and Riverview, support these efforts by aligning infrastructure investments and policies, fostering sustainable evolution without reliance on amalgamation.

Demographics

Population Size and Growth Rates

The Moncton Census Metropolitan Area (CMA), encompassing Greater Moncton, recorded a population of 157,717 in the 2021 Census conducted on May 11, 2021. This figure reflected an 8.9% increase from 144,921 in the 2016 Census, positioning the Moncton CMA as the tenth-fastest-growing CMA in Canada over that intercensal period. Post-census estimates from indicate accelerated growth, driven primarily by net . As of July 1, 2024, the population reached 188,036, up 5.1% from 178,599 the previous year, marking the highest annual growth rate among Canadian CMAs. This continues a trend of outpacing national averages, with the CMA recording a 5.4% increase in 2022 alone.
Year (July 1)PopulationAnnual Growth Rate (%)
2020158,135-
2021161,3762.0
2022168,5814.5
2023178,5996.0
2024188,0365.1
Data compiled from quarterly population estimates. Growth rates calculated as percentage change from prior year; 2020-2021 rate reflects post-census adjustments incorporating migration and natural increase. The region's expansion has consistently exceeded the national CMA average of approximately 1.5-2.0% annually in recent years.

Age and Workforce Composition

In the Moncton Census Metropolitan Area (CMA), known as Greater Moncton, the median age rose to 45 years in 2021 from 44.5 years in 2016, reflecting an aging population trend consistent with broader provincial patterns in New Brunswick. The population distribution shows approximately 16% under 15 years old, 65% in the working-age bracket of 15 to 64 years (totaling about 102,560 individuals in this group), and 19% aged 65 and over. This structure indicates a relatively mature demographic, with the proportion of seniors exceeding the national average, driven by lower fertility rates and longer life expectancies, though sustained in-migration of younger workers has mitigated sharper declines in the prime working-age cohort. Workforce composition aligns closely with the working-age share, as the labour force primarily draws from the 15-64 group, comprising over participants in 2021 based on labour status data. Participation rates vary significantly by subgroup: aged 15-24 exhibited a 66.5% rate in 2021, reflecting seasonal and entry-level in sectors like retail and services, while the core 25-64 cohort maintained higher engagement around 82-83%, supporting sustained economic activity in distribution, , and healthcare. rates followed suit, with 55.9% for 15-24 year-olds and approximately 78-80% for 25-64 year-olds, underscoring a stable but aging labour pool challenged by retirements outpacing inflows without offsets. Overall, about 60% of the aged 15 and over is employed, with recent growth of 7.3% from 2016-2021 attributed partly to increased participation among middle-aged and immigrant workers.

Ethnic, Linguistic, and Cultural Diversity

Greater Moncton exhibits a demographic profile shaped by its historical Acadian and British roots, with growing contributions from recent . According to the 2021 Census, residents report origins from 210 ethnicities and cultural groups, with the most common being Acadian at 22.4%, Canadian at 21.2%, Irish at approximately 15-18%, English, French, Scottish, and German. The population remains predominantly of European descent, with 84-90% born in , though immigrant numbers have risen, comprising about 11-15% of the metropolitan area, primarily from the , , the , and various African and Asian countries. Visible minority populations have expanded rapidly, increasing 129.6% from 8,075 in 2016 to 18,540 in 2021 across the broader southeast region encompassing Greater Moncton, representing roughly 10-11% of the CMA's total population of 169,685. The largest groups include (5,310 individuals), South Asian, Filipino (1,595), Chinese, and , reflecting targeted francophone policies that attract over 50% of New Brunswick's French-speaking newcomers to the area. Linguistically, the region is characterized by high bilingualism, with 45.9% of residents able to speak both English and French, one of the highest rates among Canadian CMAs outside . English and French as mother tongues account for 90.3% of the , with English predominant at around 60% and French at 30%, concentrated in Acadian communities like ; non-official languages, including , Tagalog, and Mandarin, are spoken by the remaining 9.7%, driven by immigration. Cultural diversity is expressed through community events and institutions that highlight both foundational Acadian heritage—such as Tintamarre celebrations and the Acadian Museum—and multicultural festivals like the annual MOSAÏQ Festival, featuring parades of nations, international cuisine, and performances from over 30 countries, alongside the African Festival showcasing music, dance, and crafts from communities. These initiatives, supported by municipal policies promoting integration, underscore the blend of longstanding bilingual Anglo-Acadian traditions with emerging global influences, though the overall cultural fabric remains anchored in Canadian and European norms rather than majority non-Western identities.

Migration Inflows and Immigration Impacts

Greater Moncton has seen robust migration inflows, primarily driven by international , which has become the dominant factor in population expansion since the late . Between July 2023 and July 2024, the Metropolitan Area (CMA) population grew by 9,437 to 188,036, with immigrants accounting for 7,106 of the increase, reflecting a 5.1% annual growth rate—one of the highest among Canadian CMAs. In 2024, the region admitted 6,895 permanent residents, achieving Canada's second-highest immigration rate per capita and a 37% year-over-year increase from 2023. As of the 2021 , immigrants comprised 10.9% of the CMA's population, with 4,410 recent immigrants (arriving 2016–2021); principal countries of birth included the , , and the . Net interprovincial migration has remained modestly positive in recent years (e.g., 2017–2018), though international inflows far outpace domestic ones, contributing to an overall that ranked fourth-highest among mid-sized Canadian urban centers in 2021. These inflows have exerted mixed impacts on the region. Economically, immigration has addressed labor shortages in sectors like healthcare, retail, and , with immigrant workers increasing by 130% over the past decade—far exceeding provincial trends—and supporting a 7.3% expansion compared to New Brunswick's 1.5% decline. This demographic boost underpinned a 5.4% surge in 2022–2023, the fastest among CMAs over two decades, sustaining business operations and generating $8.5 billion in annual household and enterprise income. Approximately 52% of New Brunswick's francophone immigrants and non-permanent residents settle in Greater Moncton, enhancing bilingual service capacities and cultural diversity in a historically Acadian-influenced area. Conversely, the pace of has intensified pressures on and public services. Rapid growth has coincided with low rental vacancy rates, leaving newcomers—particularly recent arrivals—challenged by affordability, as noted in 2022 reports where immigrants reported difficulties securing suitable accommodations amid rising demand. Local strategies, such as Moncton's 2020–2024 plan, emphasize constructing affordable units tailored to immigrant needs, including rentals favored by newcomers over homeownership, to mitigate these strains and improve retention rates, which have doubled in recent years but remain vulnerable to integration barriers. While government projections highlight 's role in averting population stagnation and sustaining services like elder care, unchecked inflows risk exacerbating deficits if supply and service capacity do not scale commensurately.

Economy

Major Industries and Employment Sectors

The Greater Moncton census metropolitan area (CMA) supports a labour force of approximately 134,400 employed individuals as of late , reflecting a 5.5% increase or 7,700 full-time jobs added since June 2024. Over the longer term, employment in the region grew by 28% between 2014 and 2024, outpacing other New Brunswick urban areas like Fredericton (22.1%) and Saint John (8.7%). This expansion has been driven by a diversified service-oriented , with public and private sector roles emphasizing stability amid provincial trends in healthcare demands and . The largest employment sectors in Greater Moncton, based on 2021 data aligned with recent profiles, are dominated by services, with the top five accounting for nearly 50% of jobs. Healthcare and social assistance leads at 13.7%, followed closely by retail trade at 13.7%, reflecting the region's role as a retail hub employing over 20,000 in sales and related activities. Accommodation and food services contributes 7.8%, administrative and support services (including like call centers) 7.5%, and 7.0%. These sectors together represent about 40% of employment when focusing on healthcare, retail, and government roles, underscoring reliance on essential services and consumer-facing operations. Beyond core services, Greater Moncton has cultivated strengths in transportation and , leveraging its position as a rail and air hub, alongside , , and communication technology (ICT), and professional services. and advanced , along with food and beverage processing, provide niche manufacturing employment, though these remain smaller than service giants. , via institutions like , supports academic and administrative jobs, while business support services continue as a major employer with 12 firms noted in 2024 counts. Vacancy rates highlight ongoing needs in healthcare, retail, and , aligning with provincial patterns.

Economic Performance Metrics

The Moncton Census Metropolitan Area (CMA), encompassing Greater Moncton, had a (GDP) at basic prices of 8,893 million chained 2017 dollars in 2021, an increase from 8,089 million in 2020, representing a year-over-year growth of 9.9%. Updated local economic forecasts project real GDP expansion to 9.715 billion dollars in 2025, with continued annual increases to 10.337 billion by 2028, driven by steady sectoral contributions from transportation, distribution, and services. Unemployment in the Moncton CMA averaged 6.4% in mid-2025, though it climbed to 7.3% by September amid broader labor force expansion outpacing job gains. The employment rate reached 61.7% in June 2025, surpassing New Brunswick's 56.5% and Canada's 60.9%, reflecting a labor market absorbing over 7,700 additional workers—a 5.5% rise—since mid-2024. Median total for the CMA was 73,000 dollars in 2020, with a after-tax figure of 63,600 dollars; the after-tax stood at 75,300 dollars, up 17.6% from 2015 levels. These metrics indicate moderate growth aligned with workforce participation, though outputs remain below national urban s due to regional cost structures and industry mix.

Business Environment and Investment Drivers

Greater Moncton maintains a low-cost business environment characterized by affordable real estate, labor, and operational expenses, providing competitive advantages for enterprises across multiple sectors including , advanced , transportation and , and , and communication (ICT), and . The region's economic stability is supported by proactive municipal policies, such as the City of Moncton's repeated reductions in rates; for 2025, the residential rate was lowered to $1.3614 per $100 of assessed value (a 6.2-cent decrease from 2024), while commercial rates dropped to $2.3144 per $100 (a 4.85-cent reduction). These measures, combined with provincial rates at 2.5% on the first $500,000 of active business income, foster a fiscal that encourages retention and expansion. Investment drivers include targeted incentives like the Investor , which offers a 50% non-refundable on qualified investments up to $125,000 annually, aimed at stimulating capital inflows into local ventures. Municipal programs further enhance attractiveness through grants, waived development fees, and support from the team at Moncton Impact, which connects investors with partners for , permitting, and expansion. The bilingual workforce, bolstered by institutions like and proximity to Halifax and international markets via Greater Moncton International Airport, drives appeal in knowledge-based industries, with recent investments—such as federal for local projects—creating jobs and improving connectivity. Provincial efforts via Opportunities NB accelerate by streamlining regulatory processes and promoting export-oriented growth, contributing to New Brunswick's 22.1% rise in building construction investment in 2024, the third-highest among Canadian provinces. This environment has yielded sustained population and economic expansion, with the Greater Moncton census metropolitan area recording 5.1% growth from July 2023 to July 2024, signaling robust demand for commercial space and labor. Overall, these factors—rooted in empirical cost metrics and policy interventions—position Greater Moncton as a hub for diversified, resilient business activity amid Atlantic Canada's broader recovery.

Fiscal Policies and Tax Considerations

In the Greater Moncton region, municipal governments rely heavily on property taxes to fund local services, with rates set annually by each jurisdiction—, , and Riverview—under New Brunswick's provincial framework that includes assessment standardization and collection guarantees. This system features provincial rebates and protections, such as assessment spike limits, to mitigate sharp increases for homeowners, though actual bills vary with property values and location-specific rates. Moncton's 2025 residential tax rate stands at $1.3614 per $100 of assessed value, reflecting a 6.2-cent reduction from 2024 and the fourth straight year of cuts, totaling nearly 29 cents lower than in 2021, amid rising assessments and service demands. These funds, projected at $196 million for 2025, support over 85 services including infrastructure maintenance and public transit expansions. Dieppe similarly decreased its core-area rate by 6.5 cents to $1.3650 per $100, aligning with provincial catch-up plans for annexed areas while increasing the overall tax levy by 6% to cover growth-related costs. Riverview reduced its rate by 5 cents to $1.3826 per $100, also the fourth consecutive decline, though water and sewer fees rose modestly to $920 annually for residential users. Business tax considerations include differentiated non-residential rates—such as Moncton's commercial rate of $1.7 per $100—and provincial incentives like the 2.5% corporate income tax on the first $500,000 of active business income, alongside the Small Business Investor Tax Credit offering up to 50% non-refundable credits for eligible investments. Moncton supplements these with local programs, including redevelopment grants, fee waivers, and incentives for business improvement areas to stimulate urban revitalization and investment. These policies aim to balance fiscal restraint with competitiveness, as evidenced by sustained rate reductions despite population and assessment growth exceeding 10% in some areas like Dieppe. Effective tax burdens post-provincial rebates can differ, with Moncton homeowners facing higher net costs than counterparts in Dieppe or Riverview for comparable properties.

Governance and Politics

Municipal and Regional Administration

The Greater Moncton area, encompassing the City of Moncton, City of Dieppe, and Town of Riverview, operates under separate municipal governments without a unified . Each entity maintains its own elected council responsible for local services such as planning, taxation, , and bylaws, as reformed under New Brunswick's 2023 local governance changes that consolidated entities province-wide but preserved these core urban municipalities. In , governance is led by a and 10 , comprising eight ward representatives (two per four wards) and two members, elected for four-year terms. Following Dawn Arnold's appointment to the on March 7, 2025, Shawn Crossman serves as acting until the next on May 11, 2026, with Paulette Thériault supporting council operations. The council oversees a budget focused on , , and bilingual services, meeting regularly to approve policies and expenditures. Dieppe's city council consists of a mayor, three councillors, and five ward representatives, also serving four-year terms since the June 2021 election. Yvon Lapierre leads administration emphasizing Acadian heritage, growth management, and services like , roads, and , with the 2025 incorporating reduced rates for certain areas to support expansion. Council decisions prioritize resident input through committees on , , and public safety. Riverview's town council includes a mayor and seven councillors—four ward-based and three at-large—elected every four years, with the next in 2026. Mayor Andrew J. LeBlanc, in office since 2012, directs policies on zoning, utilities, and community development, with recent council votes approving councillor pay increases effective post-2026 to attract candidates. Committees advise on strategic planning, aligning with provincial standards for fiscal accountability. Regional coordination occurs via the Southeast Regional Service Commission (SERSC), which serves , , Riverview, and surrounding areas by managing shared services including waste, , , , and transportation without overriding local authority. Established under New Brunswick's expanded RSC framework post-2023 reforms, SERSC facilitates inter-municipal on infrastructure cost-sharing and , funded through provincial grants and member contributions. This structure promotes efficiency while respecting municipal autonomy, though it has faced critiques for limited enforcement power in resolving cross-border issues like .

Political Representation and Elections

Greater Moncton is represented at the federal level primarily by the Moncton—Dieppe , which encompasses the cities of and and elects one to the . In the April 28, 2025, federal election, Liberal incumbent secured re-election with 63% of the vote, defeating Conservative candidate Jocelyn Dionne. The neighbouring Town of Riverview was redistributed into the Fundy Royal riding ahead of the 2025 election, where Conservative incumbent Rob Moore was re-elected. At the provincial level, Greater Moncton spans multiple electoral districts in the , including Centre, East, South, and West, with portions of Shediac Bay- covering . The October 21, 2024, provincial election resulted in a Liberal under , with the party gaining seats in the area, including re-election of Rob McKee in Centre. -area MLAs, such as those from the aforementioned districts, have been appointed to key cabinet roles reflecting the region's influence in Liberal policy priorities. Municipal governance operates through independent councils for each community, with no unified regional authority beyond cooperative agreements. In , Dawn Arnold served as from 2016 until her appointment to the on March 7, 2025, after which Paulette Thériault assumed the acting role, followed by Shawn Crossman; the next is scheduled for 2026. is led by Yvon Lapierre, who has held the position since 1998 with re-elections including 2021. Riverview's mayor is Andrew J. LeBlanc, elected in 2021 and serving through 2025. Municipal across , including in Greater Moncton, occur every four years in May, with the most recent in 2021 and the next in 2025 determining council compositions focused on local issues like and growth.

Policy Priorities and Intergovernmental Relations

The City of Moncton's 2023 Strategic Plan emphasizes priorities such as fostering through targeted investments, enhancing community safety and , advancing resilience, and promoting environmental sustainability, with specific actions including process improvements at City Hall and support for initiatives. emerges as a core focus across Greater Moncton municipalities, with advocating for provincial removal of on new multi-unit residential developments and integrated solutions to address shortages, while Dieppe's 2025-2029 Strategic Plan targets sustainable growth amid population increases, prioritizing inclusive and strengthened Acadian cultural identity. Riverview's Municipal Development Plan guides orderly physical, social, economic, and environmental development, with recent reviews aiming to balance residential expansion and natural area preservation through public consultations. Regionally, policy alignment occurs through collaborative efforts on shared challenges like and public transit, as evidenced by Moncton's calls for provincial prioritization of shelter solutions and integrated support services from day one of new governments. Economic development bodies, such as Expansion Dieppe's 2025-2028 plan, complement municipal efforts by focusing on business attraction and addressing growth-related needs in francophone-majority areas. Intergovernmental relations in Greater Moncton involve federal and provincial funding partnerships for key , including over $115 million allocated in 2025 through the Canada Public Transit Fund to and for long-term transit expansion, enhancing accessibility and reducing emissions. Housing collaborations feature federal agreements, such as the February 2025 CMHC commitment with to accelerate 220 new homes via streamlined approvals and incentives, alongside provincial strategies promoting francophone demographic growth. These ties extend to health and research, with initiatives like the October 2025 launch of a Université de -Vitalité Health Network partnership for targeted medical studies, underscoring coordinated responses to regional needs. Municipal advocacy influences provincial policy, as seen in 's pre-election platforms urging fiscal adjustments for development and .

Infrastructure and Services

Transportation Networks

The Greater Moncton area is integrated into New Brunswick's highway system, with the (provincial Route 2) serving as the primary east-west corridor, bypassing the urban core to the north and facilitating connections to , Saint John, and points beyond. Provincial Routes 1, 7, and 15 provide direct access to the city center and surrounding municipalities like and Riverview, featuring multi-lane expressways that link to major regional centers. These routes support freight and commuter traffic, with Route 15 acting as a key urban artery from the Trans-Canada interchange into downtown . Public transit within Greater Moncton is managed by Codiac Transpo, which operates over 20 bus routes covering , , and Riverview, with real-time tracking available via a dedicated for trip planning and schedules. Fare structures include single adult tickets at $3, 10-trip passes at $7, and monthly passes at $72, with discounts for students and seniors; children under 6 ride free, and unlimited access for those under 12 is available through family programs. The system emphasizes , including priority seating and route planning assistance via phone at 506-857-2008, though it primarily serves local commuting rather than extensive regional express services. Air travel is handled by Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport (YQM), located southwest of the city core, which recorded 620,664 passengers through November 2024, approaching pre-COVID levels at 99.6% recovery and marking a 10% year-over-year increase. The airport supports domestic and seasonal international flights, with growth attributed to expanded routes and cargo operations, as evidenced by a 10.7% passenger rise from January to September 2024 compared to the prior year. Rail infrastructure positions Moncton as a historical and ongoing transportation node, with 's Ocean service providing thrice-weekly passenger connections from the downtown station at 77 Canada Street to Halifax, , and intermediate stops in and . Freight operations, dominated by (), utilize Moncton as a and intermodal hub, supporting Atlantic Canada's with extensive track networks linking to the U.S. border and . Intercity bus options, such as Maritime Bus, complement these modes from the same facility, offering routes to Halifax, , and beyond.

Education System and Institutions

The public K-12 education in Greater Moncton is delivered through two provincial school districts reflecting the region's bilingual character: the Anglophone East School District for English instruction and the Francophone Sud School District for French instruction. Both districts manage schools from to grade 12, with the Anglophone East overseeing 38 schools across southeast , including Moncton High School, Riverview High School, and Bernice MacNaughton High School. The Francophone Sud, 's largest French-language district, operates 38 schools in the south-central province, with a concentration in Dieppe and Moncton-area communities such as École L'Odyssée high school. Enrolment in Moncton-area schools has surged in recent years, with both southeast districts reporting capacity pressures as of September 2024, even after new school openings; for instance, the Anglophone East serves over 18,000 students amid ongoing growth tied to population increases. French-language benefits from New Brunswick's constitutional protections for minority-language rights, supporting francophone immersion and core French programs, though the province's districts emphasize integrated services from early childhood onward. Post-secondary options in Greater Moncton include the , the province's only French-language university, enrolling over 4,600 students in undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on personalized instruction in fields like , , and . , a private Christian liberal arts institution, offers more than 50 undergraduate and graduate degrees emphasizing academic excellence and faith-based education. The New Brunswick Community College (NBCC) Moncton campus provides vocational training to over 1,400 students annually in programs such as , health sciences, and trades, utilizing hands-on facilities. Oulton College, a career-focused private institution, delivers diplomas in healthcare, , and . Provincial student assessments reveal challenges affecting Greater Moncton schools, with New Brunswick's grade 3 reading pass rates at 60% and grade 2 at 68% for francophone students in 2024 evaluations, continuing a trend of declines observed since at least 2022. Approximately 40% of grade 4 students province-wide scored below achievement standards in English reading during 2022-2023, prompting calls for instructional reforms amid stable or worsening outcomes despite calendar adjustments. These metrics, drawn from standardized tests by the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, highlight systemic issues in foundational skills, though district-specific data underscores enrolment-driven resource strains over performance gains.

Healthcare Facilities and Access

The Greater Moncton area is served by two major acute care hospitals: The , operated by Horizon Health Network, and the Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Hospital Centre, operated by Vitalité Health Network. The , located at 135 MacBeath Avenue, functions as a level 2 trauma centre providing tertiary care, including specialized services in , , and advanced . It handles a broad range of procedures such as , , , and 24-hour emergency care. The Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Hospital Centre, situated at 330 Université Avenue, is Vitalité's flagship facility with 302 beds, delivering , specialized, and tertiary care, including intensive care units and step-down services for high-risk patients. This hospital emphasizes bilingual services to accommodate the region's significant Francophone population. Complementary facilities include the Greater Moncton Health Centre, which focuses on access and for the local population. Access to care faces challenges typical of New Brunswick's health system, with waits averaging 4.5 hours for typical patients in 2024-25. Surgical wait times vary by procedure and facility; for instance, certain consultations at Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont reached 406 days, while those at The Moncton Hospital averaged 219 days as of recent provincial data. models in the region enable 97% of providers to offer slots within five days, though routine appointments lag at 85% availability in that timeframe. Systemic pressures, including consultations and diagnostic imaging delays, contribute to prolonged overall waits across both networks.

Utilities and Public Services

Electricity in the Greater Moncton area is provided by , the provincial Crown corporation responsible for generation, transmission, and distribution across except Saint John. services, available in select urban areas, are delivered by Liberty Utilities, which operates as the primary distributor following its acquisition of regional assets. Water supply and wastewater treatment in Moncton are managed directly by the City of , which bills residents quarterly and maintains infrastructure including treatment plants and distribution networks serving over people. and Riverview operate their own municipal water and sewer systems, with Riverview sourcing from the and treating via ultraviolet disinfection processes compliant with provincial standards. Solid waste collection in Moncton is handled by the city through curbside pickup of recyclables, organics, and garbage, while regional disposal occurs at facilities like the Southeast Eco360 landfill, emphasizing capture for environmental management. provides supplementary waste management services in the area, including commercial hauling. Policing for , , and Riverview is provided by the Codiac Regional Policing Authority under contract with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), with the detachment handling over 20,000 calls annually as of recent reports. Fire protection is delivered by independent municipal departments: Fire Department, with 124 staff and 10 stations responding to around 4,000 incidents yearly; Riverview Fire and Rescue, specializing in water and high-angle rescues; and Fire Department, coordinating via shared dispatch channels. Emergency services integrate 911 dispatch, with each municipality maintaining alert systems for hazards like water main breaks or evacuations.

Culture, Recreation, and Attractions

Cultural Heritage and Bilingualism

The cultural heritage of Greater Moncton reflects its dual Acadian and Anglo-Saxon foundations, with Acadian settlement dating to the mid-18th century following the expulsion of Acadians from Nova Scotia during the Great Upheaval of 1755–1764. Early Acadian pioneers established farming communities along the Petitcodiac River, utilizing natural features like river bends for settlement and resource access, which laid the groundwork for enduring French-language traditions amid British colonial dominance. Institutions such as the Acadian Museum at Université de Moncton preserve this legacy through exhibits on Acadian history from initial European contact in 1604, domestic life, and thematic displays of folklore, songs, and literature that distinguish Acadian identity from broader French-Canadian culture. Nearby sites like the Historic Acadian Village further illustrate pre-industrial Acadian life, including reconstructed buildings and artisanal practices, emphasizing resilience after deportation and return. Bilingualism stands as a cornerstone of Greater Moncton's identity, reinforced by 's unique status as Canada's only officially bilingual province under its 1969 Official Languages Act, which mandates equal provision of provincial services in English and French. In 2002, became the first Canadian municipality to declare itself officially bilingual via a resolution, committing to public notifications, services, and information in both languages year-round—a policy that distinguishes it from other New Brunswick cities and promotes linguistic equity without federal imposition. This municipal initiative addressed historical tensions, including Acadian advocacy for language rights amid past English-only municipal practices, fostering a practical coexistence where 43.6% of the population aged 15 and over reports proficiency in both English and French, per local demographic profiles drawing from data. Provincially, English-French bilingualism rates hover around 34%, stable over decades per censuses, with higher concentrations in Greater Moncton due to adjacent Francophone-majority areas like and robust French immersion programs enrolling about 25% of eligible non-Francophone youth aged 5–60. , established in 1963 as the province's premier French-language higher education institution outside , bolsters this by serving over 5,000 students annually and hosting cultural events that integrate Acadian heritage with bilingual policy implementation. These elements yield a regionally adaptive bilingualism, where economic incentives like and workforce versatility—39% of workers are bilingual—underpin its sustainability over ideological mandates.

Tourist Destinations and Events

Greater Moncton's primary tourist draws include natural phenomena and recreational facilities. The Magnetic Hill, an site where vehicles appear to roll uphill in neutral gear due to the surrounding terrain's gradient, has attracted visitors since its promotion in the early and ranked as Canada's third-most popular tourist destination by the 1950s, following and . Adjacent to it, the Magnetic Hill Zoo houses over 600 animals representing more than 100 species, including jaguars, lions, and lemurs, and offers year-round educational programs and family activities. The , a powerful surge of the caused by high tides reversing its flow, draws spectators twice daily, with optimal viewing from riverfront parks in Moncton. Other attractions encompass water-based recreation and cultural sites. Magic Mountain Water Park, operational for over three decades as a family-owned facility, features slides, pools, and lazy rivers catering to seasonal visitors. The , a multi-purpose arena opened in 2018, hosts concerts, sports events, and conventions, contributing to the region's entertainment infrastructure. Nearby, extensive trail networks exceeding 70 kilometers provide opportunities for , , and golfing across urban and suburban areas. Annual events emphasize culinary, musical, and automotive themes. The Shediac Lobster Festival, held annually since 1945 in nearby Shediac, celebrates Acadian seafood traditions with parades, feasts, and competitions, attracting over 150,000 attendees. The Atlantic Nationals Automotive Extravaganza, a multi-day show and event at Magnetic Hill since 2000, draws thousands of enthusiasts for vehicle displays and performances. Summer programming includes the Rotary RibFest and Riverview SUNFEST, featuring food vendors, live music, and family activities in July. The Moncton Wine Expo, part of broader food and beverage showcases, occurs periodically to highlight regional and international products. These gatherings leverage the area's bilingual heritage and proximity to coastal attractions to boost seasonal tourism.

Sports Teams and Facilities

The are the premier sports franchise in Greater Moncton, operating as a team in the (QMJHL). Established in 1995, the team plays home games at the and has secured QMJHL championships in 2006, 2010, and 2025. The Wildcats draw significant local attendance, with recent games attracting crowds exceeding 4,500 spectators. Recreational and amateur sports dominate the local scene, including organized soccer through the Codiac Soccer Club, founded in 1998 and serving over 1,300 participants across youth and adult programs in the east region of . Adult leagues for , soccer, and are coordinated by the Moncton Sport & Social Club, which hosts tournaments and events to promote community participation. Competitive events occur at facilities affiliated with local universities, though no major professional leagues in or other team sports currently operate in the area. Key sports infrastructure includes the , a multi-purpose indoor arena opened on September 8, 2018, with seating for up to 8,800 during hockey games and hosting the Wildcats alongside concerts and other events. The CN Sportplex provides extensive outdoor and indoor options, encompassing multiple diamonds, soccer pitches, and ice rinks integrated with the adjacent Moncton Sports Dome for seasonal training and recreational use. , located on the campus, features an outdoor track, field, and soccer capabilities for athletic competitions. The city maintains additional multi-use fields and two dedicated sport complexes to support both recreational users and competitive events.

Arts, Media, and Community Life

The in Greater Moncton center around the Capitol Theatre, a restored heritage venue at 811 Main Street that serves as the region's primary bilingual hub for concerts, musicals, theatre productions, and performances. are showcased through institutions like the Moncton Gallery, an intimate space in City Hall displaying rotating exhibitions of original works by local and regional artists, accessible free of charge. The Aberdeen Cultural Centre, a repurposed former school on Botsford Street, functions as a key Francophone and Acadian cooperative, housing over 20 organizations focused on studios, galleries, education, and cultural programming. Local media includes English-language print outlets such as the Times & Transcript, a daily covering regional , and French-language publications like L'Acadie Nouvelle, which serves the Acadian community with circulation exceeding 128,000. Broadcast media features radio stations like CKNI-FM (91.9 The Bend), an adult contemporary outlet providing local and music programming. Television coverage is handled by affiliates including CHNB-DT (Global New Brunswick) and CBC , delivering regional , weather, and events. Community life revolves around a calendar of seasonal festivals and gatherings that highlight bilingual heritage and local traditions, such as the in June, featuring Scottish cultural demonstrations, and the Rotary Ribfest, an annual food-focused event drawing crowds to Riverfront Park. Additional events include the and various summer kite festivals, fostering social engagement across diverse demographics in the region. These activities, coordinated through platforms like Experience Moncton, contribute to a vibrant civic fabric emphasizing recreation and cultural exchange year-round.

Social Challenges and Criticisms

Homelessness, Addiction, and Mental Health Crises

In Greater Moncton, has escalated sharply, with a point-in-time count in May 2025 enumerating 507 individuals experiencing it, encompassing sheltered, unsheltered, and couch-surfing arrangements. This marked an increase from roughly 337 in 2023 and over 550 by early 2024. Of those affected in 2023, 78% faced chronic , defined as ongoing for over a year or repeated episodes. Broader provincial data for major cities including showed 1,529 people experiencing for at least one day in March 2025, a more than 200% rise from 493 in March 2021. Compounding this is a severe addiction crisis, driven largely by . recorded its highest-ever opioid deaths involving as of June 2025. In specifically, an April 2025 surge in overdoses—potentially dozens over a single weekend—was linked to tainted supplies, straining the region's sole supervised consumption site. That facility, 's first overdose prevention site, opened in in 2021 amid rising provincial opioid toxicity deaths, which climbed steadily since 2018 despite remaining below the national average of 20.8 per 100,000. Mental health challenges intersect profoundly with these issues, as reports the nation's highest substance use disorder prevalence at 27.9% alongside the second-highest rates of mood and anxiety disorders. Among homeless individuals in , earlier targeted interventions found 73% with substance-related problems and 86% with non-psychotic mental disorders. In 2024, at least 47 deaths occurred among the homeless or vulnerably housed in Greater Moncton, primarily from drug addiction and , underscoring the lethal overlap. Such vulnerabilities drive elevated healthcare utilization, with visits by homeless persons rising to an estimated 141 per 100 individuals annually.

Crime Rates and Public Safety Concerns

Greater Moncton's Crime Severity Index (CSI) stood at 105.4 in 2023, surpassing the national average of 77.9 and reflecting a higher volume and seriousness of police-reported crimes compared to overall. The region's overall rate, encompassing the Codiac RCMP jurisdiction covering , , and Riverview, has shown a downward trend recently, with the CSI declining by approximately 9.7% from the prior year, though it remains elevated relative to pre-2018 levels amid provincial increases in New Brunswick's CSI of 18% over five years. crimes, including break-ins and thefts, constitute a significant portion of incidents, while non-violent CSI components have contributed to the overall severity metric. Violent crime rates in the Moncton reached 1,891 incidents per 100,000 in 2023, exceeding the national figure and positioning the area above average for . This includes assaults, robberies, and sexual violations, with historical data indicating ranked third highest in for overall crime severity in 2021 per metrics. rates remain low, aligning with broader Canadian declines to 1.91 per 100,000 nationally in 2024, though isolated incidents underscore localized risks. Codiac RCMP reports highlight ongoing challenges with weapon-related assaults and robberies in urban cores. Public safety concerns in Greater Moncton center on visible use, , and associated petty crimes, prompting increased RCMP patrols and complaints in 2025. Open-air consumption, particularly around areas like George and Cameron streets, has drawn criticism from business owners and residents, linking to , panhandling in hazardous locations, and erratic behavior. These issues correlate with broader provincial rises in drug-related offenses, exacerbating perceptions of urban insecurity despite policing efforts to deter and related disturbances.

Housing Affordability and Urban Decay Issues

Housing affordability in Greater Moncton has deteriorated amid rapid outpacing residential , with provincial home prices rising 89% from January 2020 to January 2025. The average home sale price in the Greater Moncton area reached $375,504 in September 2025, reflecting a 2.2% year-over-year increase despite a slight monthly decline. This escalation, driven by interprovincial migration and limited supply, has rendered homeownership increasingly inaccessible for median-income households, as monthly rents for a typical two-bedroom unit have also surged in tandem with demand. The rental market remains exceptionally tight, with an apartment vacancy rate of 1.5% reported for 2024 by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, signaling acute shortages that inflate costs. Average monthly rents for apartments hovered around $1,325 in recent listings, though some data indicate a modest 10% year-over-year dip amid cooling sales activity. Provincial targets to add 1,760 affordable units by 2029 have been criticized by researchers as insufficient to meaningfully address waitlists or alleviate pressure, given ongoing demographic inflows. Urban decay, historically evident in downtown Moncton's high vacancy rates and deteriorating prior to revitalization initiatives, has largely abated with economic resurgence and infill development along transit corridors. However, pockets of persist in older multi-unit structures, exacerbated by affordability strains that deter maintenance investments, while commercial office vacancy climbed to 13.4% in Q2 2025 due to tenant downsizing and new supply. These dynamics risk future if growth continues unchecked without targeted , though current trends emphasize density over sprawl to mitigate sprawl-induced deterioration.

Government Responses and Effectiveness Critiques

In response to escalating intertwined with and crises, the City of endorsed a 2021 report proposing 27 targeted actions, including enhanced wrap-around services, increased capacity, and coordination with provincial agencies to address root causes like substance use and untreated psychiatric conditions. Provincially, launched a ministerial task force in September 2025, yielding 47 recommendations on , policing, , and , with cities like seeking inclusion to localize implementation. Complementary efforts include the June 2025 introduction of an in , aimed at diverting offenders influenced by substance dependency or illness toward treatment rather than incarceration. Despite these measures, critiques highlight persistent inefficacy, as directors reported in December 2024 that inflows of newly homeless individuals continue to exceed housing placements, exacerbated by inadequate prevention funding and siloed service delivery. On public safety and , municipal and regional bodies commissioned a July 2023 Public Safety Policing Services Study for , , and Riverview, evaluating RCMP models against alternatives to modernize responses to elevated property and drug-related offenses. The RCMP-detached policing budget rose 65% over four years by March 2025, funding additional officers amid 's third-highest national rate in 2021 and persistently high severity index. Local councils have demanded of reductions before further commitments, noting that despite RCMP assertions of overall , metrics like 610 break-and-enters per 100,000 in 2022 indicate limited deterrent impact from expanded patrols. Addressing housing affordability and , the provincial government committed to 380 new units by 2029, with 106 completed province-wide by August 2025, including 16 in to alleviate waitlists driven by rent hikes exceeding 50% in some cases. The City of leveraged the national Housing Accelerator Fund for flexibility and developer incentives, while federal-provincial partnerships delivered over $9.5 million for 406 affordable units in the by July 2024. Critics, including researchers, argue the provincial target of 1,760 affordable units by 2029 falls short of denting waitlists, with New Brunswick's citing June 2024 transparency deficits in cost tracking and over-reliance on developer incentives that prioritize market-rate builds over low-income needs. groups decry the absence of robust rent controls, allowing "renovictions" and to perpetuate decay in downtown cores. Broader evaluations of governmental point to structural shortcomings, such as fragmented budgeting detached from outcomes, insufficient on program impacts, and a rules-based focus over results-oriented prevention, as outlined in a February 2025 national analysis applicable to regional contexts like . Municipal expenditures, including $5 million on social needs by 2024, have not curbed visible manifestations of and insecurity in the , underscoring causal gaps between intent and empirical containment of intertwined crises.

Future Prospects

Urban Development Plans

The City of 's Urban Growth Strategy, released on February 26, 2024, outlines a 25-year framework (2021-2046) for managing residential and expansion, projecting a increase to 116,200 residents, 50,600 units, and 69,900 jobs. This strategy emphasizes compact development to curb , prioritizing and intensification within the urban core, including 15-minute communities where essential services are accessible by foot or bike. Key targets include annual construction of 650 units, with a shift toward higher-density forms comprising 48% ground-oriented dwellings, alongside investments in to reduce and enhance . The strategy aligns with an ongoing review of Moncton's 2014 Municipal Plan and Zoning By-Law, initiated to adapt to rapid growth and provincial policies under the Community Planning Act, with public engagement sessions scheduled for November 2025. This update aims to incorporate "big moves" from community input, fostering dynamic policies that support diverse typologies and efficient servicing in phased short-, medium-, and long-term horizons. In April 2025, city council considered zoning amendments to permit four-unit in all residential areas, aiming to boost and secure millions in funding from higher levels. Downtown revitalization forms a core component, with plans for mixed-use developments along and riverfront precincts to drive 36% of housing growth, complemented by transit-oriented enhancements and preservation of heritage sites. Regionally, collaborates with and Riverview through a to coordinate on shared interests like and , while Riverview's strategic plan explores integration with southeast regional models. Broader southeastern foresight exercises propose growth scenarios to 2035, informing municipal plans for population influx, service delivery, and sustainable urban expansion across the Greater Moncton area. Developers have noted challenges in implementing compact forms due to market preferences for low-density options, though policy incentives continue to promote higher-density projects like proposed high-rises.

Economic Forecasts and Growth Potential

The Greater Moncton region's economy has demonstrated resilience amid broader challenges, with real GDP projected to expand from $9.715 billion in 2025 to $10.337 billion by 2028, reflecting annualized growth rates of approximately 1.6% to 2.0% based on local economic data. This trajectory outpaces provincial averages, driven by strong inflows and gains; the area's increased by 5.1% between July 2023 and July 2024, the fastest among Canadian metropolitan areas, fueled by interprovincial migration and . Employment reached over 138,000 in June 2025, with a regional rate of 61.7% exceeding both 's 56.5% and Canada's 60.9%. Key growth drivers include diversification into , , and , leveraging Moncton's role as a transportation hub with CN Rail operations, the , and proximity to port facilities. Health care and social assistance, alongside retail trade, account for 37% of regional jobs, providing stability amid cyclical sectors. Record-breaking building permit activity in the first quarter of 2025 signals ongoing investment in commercial and residential infrastructure, supporting further expansion. However, provincial forecasts indicate headwinds, with New Brunswick's overall real GDP growth muted at around 1.1% to 1.3% for 2025 due to uncertainties and slower export performance, potentially constraining Moncton's momentum if regional spillovers intensify.
YearProjected Real GDP (CAD billions)
20259.715
20269.919
202710.123
202810.337
Long-term potential hinges on sustaining demographic vitality and addressing labor shortages, as the region's under-20 is forecasted to decline by 11% by 2034 without targeted retention strategies. Opportunities lie in bolstering workforce development through institutions like the and attracting skilled migrants, which could amplify GDP contributions from high-value sectors; failure to mitigate constraints risks dampening inflows, as evidenced by expected 3-4% in 2025 straining affordability. Overall, Moncton's outperformance relative to positions it for above-provincial growth, contingent on prudent policy responses to external risks like U.S. trade dynamics.

Demographic and Sustainability Projections

The Moncton (CMA), encompassing , recorded a of 188,036 as of July 1, 2024, reflecting a 5.1% increase from 178,599 in 2023 and marking it as one of Canada's fastest-growing regions for the fourth consecutive year. This growth, averaging over 5% annually since 2021, has been primarily driven by international , which accounted for the majority of net gains, with 8,784 net migrants added in 2022 alone, including 4,005 permanent residents by October of that year. Projections indicate sustained expansion, with the Moncton CMA expected to grow by 27% from its 2020 base of approximately 158,135 to around 201,000 by 2040, slightly trailing national urban trends but outpacing provincial averages due to targeted and economic pull factors. Demographically, the working-age population (15-64 years) comprises about 65% of residents, with 19% seniors (65+) and 16% children under 15, based on 2021 data; however, has mitigated aging pressures, maintaining a relatively youthful profile compared to peers, with the city proper's median age at 40.8 in 2022. Forecasts suggest continued diversification, as non-permanent residents and immigrants—now the dominant growth source—introduce higher fertility rates and younger cohorts, potentially stabilizing the through 2040 despite broader Canadian trends toward population aging. Challenges include integrating newcomers into and services, with rapid influxes straining affordability; marital status data from 2021 shows 57.7% of those 15+ in couples (43.9% married, 13.7% common-law), underscoring family-oriented settlement patterns that could amplify demand for suburban expansions. Sustainability projections emphasize managing this growth to prevent and resource strain, guided by the City of Moncton's Urban Growth Strategy, which targets compact development over 25 years to accommodate an anticipated city population rise to 116,200 by 2046—a 35,400 increase from 2021—through higher densities and flexible zoning rather than peripheral expansion. The Plan integrates environmental goals, projecting reduced per-capita emissions via partnerships for energy efficiency and , though rapid population surges risk overwhelming and systems, as evidenced by updated intensity-duration-frequency curves forecasting intensified events under models. Economic forecasts tie to supply, with the 2040 regional warning that unmet could curb growth potential, advocating for 20,000+ new units to sustain livability amid immigration-driven expansion; failure to adapt risks exacerbating affordability crises, but proactive compact policies could enhance resilience against environmental vulnerabilities like flooding in low-lying areas.

References

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