1,221,439.

That’s the population of Saskatchewan as of April 1st.

The numbers were released by Statistics Canada today, showing immigration is a huge reason why the population is growing, despite thousands of people leaving Saskatchewan.

“Saskatchewan continues to break population records thanks to strong and effective policies that welcome newcomers to our province,” Immigration and Career Training Minister Jeremy Harrison said. “With one of the nation’s lowest costing utility bundles, thousands of great job opportunities, and a strong and growing economy, people are seeing Saskatchewan for its true value as a great place to live, work and raise a family.”

Since 2007, the provincial population has grown by over 218,000, an increase of 21 per cent, again largely driven by immigration.