Long Range Financial Plan

Population Density
Population density indicates the number of residents living in an area (usually measured by square kilometre). Density readings can lend
insight into the age of a City, growth patterns, zoning practices, new development opportunities and the level of multi-family unit housing.
High population density can also indicate:
whether a City may be reaching build-out, and
service and infrastructure needs, such as additional public transit or street routes
As illustrated in Figure 5, Mississauga has the second-highest population density per square kilometre, compared to its peer group. Future
growth will result in further intensification and redevelopment.
Intensification has a number of benefits including reduced carbon footprint, improved access to public transit, more effective use of
resources such as land, buildings and infrastructure, enhanced community identity and the creation of active streets that promote healthier
patterns of activity.
Intensification requires a transition from greenfield development to an urban environment development. This can have implications on the
way services are delivered. On the one hand, there is a concentrated need for services in specific areas. On the other hand, these services
can often be provided at a lower cost-per-unit due to economies of scale.
Figure 5 – Peer Comparison – Population Density
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