[1] The population density is 19.68 inhabitants per square kilometre (51.0/sq mi).

The subject of Nivala's coat of arms describes the wooden gate model typical of the municipality, and at the same time the shape of the gate resembles the initial letter of the name of the municipality.

The coat of arms was designed by Kalervo Kallio, the son of president Kyösti Kallio, and the Nivala municipal council approved it at its meeting on 23 November 1964.

The Ministry of the Interior approved the coat of arms for use on 4 February 1965.

[6][7] Neighbouring municipalities are Haapajärvi, Haapavesi, Sievi, and Ylivieska.