Audrey Boisvert relocated from Laval to Saint-Jérôme in the Laurentians in 2021, seeking a more affordable lifestyle with access to nature and proximity to Montreal. Her move reflects a demographic trend identified by the Institut de la statistique du Québec, which projects that regions like the Laurentians will experience population growth over the next 25 years, while areas like Montreal may see declines of up to 10%. Internal migration for work, education, and housing is driving these changes, as more people seek a balance between urban and rural living. Newcomers to the Laurentians, including English-speaking families, cite affordability and quality of life as key reasons for their migration. However, this influx is straining housing and public services, prompting local governments to invest in infrastructure improvements.
Why It Matters
This demographic shift is significant as it indicates changing living patterns in Quebec, with a notable movement from urban centers to more rural areas. The projections from the Institut de la statistique du Québec highlight the importance of understanding migration trends and their implications for housing, public services, and community dynamics. As more people settle in the Laurentians, local governments are responding by expanding infrastructure and services to accommodate the growing population, which can influence regional economic development and community planning.
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