Canadian/Ontario Marginalization Index

The Canadian Marginalization Index (CAN-Marg) and Ontario Marginalization Index (ON-Marg) are census- and geographically-based indexes that can be used for planning and needs assessment, resource allocation, monitoring of inequities and research.

The indexes seek to:

  • Show differences in marginalization between areas
  • Understand inequalities in various measures of health and social well-being, either between population groups or between geographical areas

The indexes are multifaceted, allowing researchers and policy and program analysts to explore multiple dimensions of marginalization in urban and rural Canada.

The four dimensions are:

  • Residential instability
  • Material deprivation
  • Ethnic concentration
  • Dependency

For more information on the indexes, visit the Chair in Research on Urban Neighbourhoods, Community Health and Housing (CRUNCH).