2021 Canadian Social Environment Typology: A Geographic Classification Tool to Measure Health and Social Inequalities in Canada
Released: 2026-03-19
The 2021 Canadian Social Environment Typology (CanSET), developed by the Centre for Health Data Integration and Direct Measures at Statistics Canada, is a new version of the neighbourhood-level classifications tool. Derived from 30 socioeconomic, demographic, ethnocultural and housing variables from the 2021 Census of Population data, this version reflects more recent population patterns than the 2016 version. The 2021 CanSET data is released today along with a user guide that provides technical documentation and practical guidance for researchers and analysts.
Note to readers
The Canadian Social Environment Typology (CanSET) release includes data for three hierarchical clusters as well as user guides for both 2016 and 2021 versions. Please note that the 2021 CanSET classification is not directly comparable to the 2016 version, as the composition of dissemination areas within each cluster level has changed.
Products
The product Canadian Social Environment Typology: Data File (17200002) and the 2021 Canadian Social Environment Typology User Guide, which assists users in understanding how the tool was developed and how to use it, are also released today.
Contact information
For more information, or to enquire about the concepts, methods or data quality of this release, contact us (toll-free 1-800-263-1136; 514-283-8300; infostats@statcan.gc.ca) or Media Relations (statcan.mediahotline-ligneinfomedias.statcan@statcan.gc.ca).
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