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Cambridge, Ontario

Cambridge is a city in the Regional Municipality of Waterloo in southern Ontario, Canada, located at the confluence of the Grand and Speed rivers.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Cambridge is a city in the Regional Municipality of Waterloo in southern Ontario, Canada, located at the confluence of the Grand and Speed rivers. It was formed in 1973 by the amalgamation of Galt, Preston, Hespeler, Blair, and surrounding township lands. The city had a population of 138,479 in the 2021 census.

History

Cambridge was formed on January 1, 1973, when the province amalgamated the former communities of Galt, Preston, Hespeler, Blair, and parts of nearby townships. Its modern municipal structure reflects older settlement patterns that predate incorporation.

Geography

Cambridge is located in southern Ontario within Waterloo Region, at the meeting point of the Grand and Speed rivers. Its river setting has shaped both the city’s layout and its historic districts.

Demographics

According to the 2021 census, Cambridge had 138,479 residents. The city’s land area was 112.99 km², giving it a population density of 1,225.6 people per square kilometre.

Economy and culture

Cambridge is part of the economically significant Waterloo Region urban area and has a mix of manufacturing, technology, and service-sector activity. The city is also associated with preserved heritage areas and civic and cultural events.

Key facts

  • Cambridge is one of the three core cities of Waterloo Region, alongside Kitchener and Waterloo.
  • The city was created through the 1973 amalgamation of several historic communities.
  • It lies at the confluence of the Grand River and Speed River.
  • Cambridge had a population of 138,479 in the 2021 Canadian census.
  • The city is known for its historic districts and riverfront setting.
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Canadian context

Cambridge is a major Ontario city in Waterloo Region and is relevant to Canadian readers for its regional economic role, census population, and municipal history.

Frequently asked questions

When was Cambridge, Ontario formed?
Cambridge was formed on January 1, 1973, through amalgamation by the Province of Ontario.
What communities became Cambridge?
The city was created from Galt, Preston, Hespeler, Blair, and parts of surrounding townships.
What is Cambridge’s population?
Cambridge had a population of 138,479 in the 2021 census.
Where is Cambridge located?
Cambridge is in the Regional Municipality of Waterloo in southern Ontario, Canada, at the confluence of the Grand and Speed rivers.
Is Cambridge part of the Kitchener-Waterloo area?
Yes. Cambridge is one of the three core cities of Waterloo Region, alongside Kitchener and Waterloo.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cambridge,_Ontario
    Supports: Population, land area, population density, location, amalgamation details
  2. The Canadian Encyclopedia — https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/cambridge
    Supports: Incorporation year, population, location, amalgamation details
  3. City of Cambridge — https://www.cambridge.ca/mayor-city-council-government/about-cambridge/
    Supports: Formation date, constituent communities, regional role
  4. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/place/Cambridge-Ontario
    Supports: Geographic setting, amalgamation history, economic and cultural overview