The minimum wage in Canada is constantly changing, with updates occurring across provinces and territories. In this article, we will explore the diverse minimum wage rates across Canada and how they impact employees and job seekers.
Each province and territory has the autonomy to set its own minimum wage, resulting in a patchwork of rates that vary based on the region’s economic landscape.
Several provinces and territories have already implemented increases in their minimum wage rates, with more adjustments expected in the coming months. This momentum brings hope and tangible results for workers seeking better compensation.
Yukon is leading the race for the highest provincial minimum wage, offering an impressive rate of $16.77 per hour. This rate sets a new standard for minimum wages in Canada, benefiting those living and working in the region.
Throughout this article, we will highlight provinces and territories with the most generous minimum wage rates and explore unique job categories under distinctive minimum wage structures.
What is the Federal Minimum Wage in Canada?
As of January 12, 2024, the federal minimum wage in Canada stands at $16.55 per hour. It is important to note that this rate only applies to individuals working in federally regulated sectors, such as banks, Federal Crown Corporations, and postal services.
If you work in any industry not regulated by the Federal Government, the provincial minimum wage applies to you. In such cases, the provincial minimum wage rate will be higher than the federal rate and continue to be in effect.
Let’s take a quick look at the minimum wage rates in the various provinces and territories across Canada:
Province Minimum Wage Most Recent Change Alberta $15.00 October 1, 2018 British Columbia $15.65 June 1, 2022 Manitoba $11.95 October 1, 2018 New Brunswick $12.75 April 1, 2022 Newfoundland & Labrador $13.20 April 1, 2022 Northwest territories $15.20 September 1, 2021 Nova Scotia $13.55 April 1, 2022 Nunavut $16.00 April 1, 2022 Ontario $15.00 January 1, 2022 Prince Edward Island $13.70 April 1, 2022 Quebec $14.25 May 1, 2022 Saskatchewan $11.81 October 1, 2021 Yukon $15.70 April 1, 2022
Minimum Wage in Alberta 2024
As of October 1, 2018, Alberta became the first province in Canada to implement a minimum wage of $15.00 per hour. This rate generally applies to most employees and is mandated for employers to pay their workers.
However, there are certain exceptions to the standard minimum wage in Alberta. For students under 18 working for 28 hours or less, the alternative minimum wage is set at $13.00 per hour.
Moreover, specific job categories are exempted from the standard minimum wage rate. For instance, salespersons, including land agents and certain professionals, have a weekly minimum wage of $598. On the other hand, domestic employees who live in their employer’s home earn a minimum wage of $2,848 per month.
Other exemptions include real estate brokers, securities salespersons, students in a work experience program, and extras in film production, among others.
For more detailed information, check my article on the minimum wage regulations in Alberta.
Minimum Wage in British Columbia 2024
As of June 1, 2023, the minimum wage in British Columbia is $15.65 per hour, making it the third Canadian province to surpass the $15.00 mark for minimum wage. The rate is expected to increase to $16.65 by June 1, 2024.
This increase results from the provincial government’s commitment to tie the minimum wage in British Columbia to the rising inflation rate. By doing so, the government aims to enhance the affordability of living for its residents.
While the new minimum wage applies to most workers in the province, there are exemptions for certain categories of employees. For instance, those serving liquor will earn a minimum wage of $15.65 per hour. On the other hand, live-in-home support workers earn a daily rate of $113.50. Additionally, resident caretakers receive a minimum monthly wage that varies based on the number of suites in the apartment building they oversee.
Minimum Wage in Manitoba 2024
As of October 1, 2023, Manitoba’s minimum wage is $15.30 per hour. Among Canada’s provinces and territories, Manitoba has the second-lowest minimum wage. It’s worth noting that any future increases in the minimum wage in Manitoba are tied to the province’s Consumer Price Index.
While the standard minimum wage of $15.30 applies to all workers, some exceptions exist. For instance, domestic workers are not entitled to the minimum wage if they work less than 12 hours.
Moreover, in the heavy construction sector, the minimum wage for employees varies based on job classification. Flat-rate mechanics who receive incentives and commission salespeople are guaranteed to earn at least the minimum wage each day.
Minimum Wage in New Brunswick 2024
As of April 1, 2023, New Brunswick has increased its minimum hourly wage to $14.75. This change is partially tied to the province’s Consumer Price Index and will elevate New Brunswick’s minimum wage rate to the highest among the Maritime provinces.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that there are special minimum wage rates for specific categories of employees in government construction work, such as those involved in road, bridge, and building construction.
Furthermore, counsellors and program staff at residential summer camps also receive a minimum wage. With this recent increase, New Brunswick aims to compensate its workers better and improve their economic security.
Minimum Wage in Newfoundland and Labrador 2024
As of October 1, 2023, the minimum wage for hourly work in Newfoundland and Labrador is $15.00, which marks an increase from the previous rate of $14.50. Additionally, there is a possibility of further increases being announced during the spring.
It’s important to note that the overtime wage rate in Newfoundland and Labrador does not apply to certain farm employees. Furthermore, live-in housekeepers or babysitters are exempt from the minimum wage requirement if there is an arrangement in place for them to receive time off with pay for any hours worked beyond 40 hours per week.
Minimum Wage in the Northwest Territories 2024
As of September 1, 2023, the minimum hourly wage in the Northwest Territories (NWT) is $16.05, marking an increase from the previous $15.20. The provincial government views this raise as a step towards balancing fair wages and supporting small businesses.
It’s worth noting that the minimum wage rates mentioned above do not apply to students who are employed in work programs as part of their studies, as they may be subject to different regulations.
Minimum Wage in Nova Scotia 2024
As of October 1, 2023, the minimum hourly wage in Nova Scotia stands at $15.00. This rate is expected to increase to $15.20 on April 1, 2024, as the province moves toward achieving a $15 minimum wage by 2024.
It’s important to note that certain workers, including real estate agents, fishing employees, insurance agents, car salespeople, summer camp counsellors, some farmhands, and domestic workers, are exempted from the minimum wage requirement in Nova Scotia.
Minimum Wage in Nunavut 2024
Nunavut boasts the highest minimum wage among all Canadian provinces and territories, set at $19 per hour as of January 1, 2024. Despite this favourable rate, the territory faces significant living costs, which can be challenging for its residents.
Given the surge in the Consumer Price Index, reaching a 30-year high, the territorial government is planning further minimum wage increases to alleviate the financial burden on workers. This proactive step demonstrates their commitment to improving the economic situation for employees.
However, it’s essential to note that the minimum wage in Nunavut does not apply to certain occupations, including trappers and individuals employed in commercial fisheries. These exceptions are crucial to consider when understanding the full scope of the minimum wage regulations in the territory.
Minimum Wage in Ontario 2024
As of October 1, 2023, the hourly minimum wage in Ontario is $16.55, which is tied to the province’s Consumer Price Index. However, it’s important to note that there are specific minimum wage rates for certain groups of employees in Ontario.
For students under 18 who work 28 hours or less per week, the minimum wage is set at $14.10 per hour. On the other hand, homemakers in Ontario receive a minimum wage of $16.50 per hour.
It’s worth mentioning that the provincial government eliminated the special minimum wage for liquor servers on January 1, 2022.
Minimum Wage in Prince Edward Island 2024
Prince Edward Island (PEI) boasts the highest minimum hourly wage rate in the Maritimes region, currently set at $15.00 since October 1, 2023. However, there’s even more good news for workers, as an additional increase to $15.40 is anticipated on April 1, 2024, and $16.00 by October 1, 2024.
What makes PEI’s minimum wage unique is its linkage to the province’s Consumer Price Index. This indexing system ensures that the minimum wage keeps up with the cost of living and recent economic changes, resulting in a recent increase of $0.40 from the previous rate of $15.00. This mechanism aims to provide workers with fair and updated compensation based on the region’s economic conditions.
Minimum Wage in Quebec 2024
As of May 1, 2023, the minimum wage in Quebec stands at $15.25 per hour. For workers who receive tips, the special minimum wage is $11.40, representing a $0.60 increase from the previous rate of $10.80 per hour.
Interestingly, employees who work in fruit picking have different minimum wage structures. Those who pick strawberries earn $1.13 per kilogram, while those picking raspberries earn $4.23 per kilogram. These variations in wage rates reflect the unique considerations for different types of work in the province.
Minimum Wage in Saskatchewan 2024
In Saskatchewan, the minimum wage is currently set at $14.00 per hour, effective from October 1, 2023. As of now, it holds the distinction of being the lowest minimum wage among all of Canada’s provinces and territories.
The province links its minimum wage adjustments to the Consumer Price Index, with a projected increase to $15.00 per hour by October 1, 2024.
However, certain categories of employees, such as those involved in farming, ranching, market garden labour, babysitters, and care providers in private homes, are exempt from receiving the minimum wage.
Live-in care providers are entitled to receive at least the minimum wage for the initial 8 hours of their daily work. The employer and the employee can negotiate additional hours beyond that.
Minimum Wage in Yukon 2024
In Yukon, the minimum wage rate is $16.67 per hour, starting from April 1, 2023. This increase is linked to factors such as the rising Consumer Price Index, comparisons with other regions, and its overall effect on the province’s economy.
Moreover, the provincial government has implemented a fair wage schedule that determines the wage rates for individuals working on Government of Yukon public work contracts.
Final Thoughts on Minimum Wage in Canada
Delving into minimum wage in Canada has been an eye-opening journey. As we explored the intricacies of wage rates across provinces and territories, it’s evident that each region has its unique approach to addressing economic needs.
Understanding the significance of minimum wage as a foundation for economic security and dignity, I encourage all job seekers and employees to stay informed about the latest updates in their specific regions. Remember, knowledge is power, and being aware of the prevailing minimum wage rates can empower you to seek fair compensation.
FAQs on Minimum Wage in Canada
What is the minimum wage in Canada for International Students?
Each province determines the minimum wage. There are no separate minimum wage rates for international students. The minimum wage received by employees in all the provinces is also received by international students.
Alberta = $15
British Columbia = $15.65
Manitoba = $15.30
New Brunswick = $14.75
Newfoundland & Labrador = $15.00
Northwest Territories = $16.05
Nova Scotia = $15.00
Nunavut = $19.00
Ontario = $16.55
Prince Edward Island = $15.00
Quebec = $15.25
Saskatchewan = $15.00
Yukon = $16.67
