St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador

St.

St. John's is the capital and largest city of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, located on the eastern side of the Avalon Peninsula. It is the province's main commercial, financial, educational, and cultural centre, and is known as the most easterly city in North America. The city serves as a major Canadian eastern seaboard hub with significance in provincial government, Atlantic maritime history, and offshore energy services.

Geography

St. John’s is situated on the eastern side of the Avalon Peninsula on the island of Newfoundland. It surrounds a natural harbour that opens to the Atlantic Ocean, and its location has been important to its development as a port and service centre. The City of St. John’s describes it as the most easterly city in North America.

History

The city began as a fishing outpost because of its sheltered harbour and nearby North Atlantic fishing grounds. It later became an incorporated city in 1921. Its long history is tied to maritime activity, administration, and settlement in Newfoundland.

Government and economy

St. John’s is the seat of the provincial government and functions as a major centre for administration, finance, education, and services. It also supports offshore oil and gas activities and other maritime industries, serving as a major service centre for offshore oil and gas.

Population and metropolitan area

According to the 2021 census, the city’s population was 110,525, while the census metropolitan area had 212,579 residents. The city government reports that 44% of Newfoundland and Labrador’s population lives in the St. John’s region.