In Canada, minimum wage is set by each province and territory, not by the federal government. This means the amount you earn per hour can vary depending on where you live. This article will give you a rundown of the current minimum wage rates, upcoming increases, and a brief history of minimum wage in Canada.
Table of Contents
Current Minimum Wage Rates
Here’s a table outlining the current minimum wage rates across all Canadian provinces and territories:
| Province/Territory | Minimum Wage |
|---|---|
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $14.50 |
| Prince Edward Island | $14.50 |
| Nova Scotia | $15.20 (effective April 1, 2024) |
| New Brunswick | $15.30 (effective April 1, 2024) |
| Quebec | $15.55 |
| Ontario | $16.55 (increases to $17.20 on Oct 1, 2024) |
| Manitoba | $15.30 (effective October 1, 2023) |
| Saskatchewan | $14.75 |
| Alberta | $15.00 |
| British Columbia | $17.40 (effective June 1, 2024) |
| Yukon | $16.00 |
| Northwest Territories | $18.20 |
| Nunavut | $19.00 (effective January 1, 2024) |
Note: Some provinces have different minimum wage rates for specific groups of workers, such as liquor servers or young workers. Be sure to check with your provincial government’s labour website for detailed information.
Upcoming Minimum Wage Increase
Several provinces have already announced minimum wage increases for later in 2024:
- Ontario: Increase to $17.20 on October 1, 2024.
- Manitoba: Potential increase tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) – exact date and amount to be determined.
Keep in mind: This information is current as of July 22, 2024. It’s always recommended to check your provincial government’s labour website for the most recent updates on minimum wage rates and any upcoming changes.
Average vs. Median Income in Canada: What’s the Difference?
Canada Workers Benefit 2024: What is & Who is Eligible for $1428 Payment?
What is T4 in Canada & When Is it Coming Out For the 2024 Tax Year?
I’m a Real Estate Agent: 7 Best Places to Retire in Canada, Why?
Canada Average Income 2024: What is the Monthly and Annual Income in Canada?
A Brief History of Minimum Wage in Canada:
- Minimum wage was first introduced in Canada in 1918 in Quebec.
- Over the years, all provinces and territories have adopted minimum wage legislation.
- The federal government sets a minimum wage for federally regulated industries (e.g., banking, airlines). However, if a province has a higher minimum wage, that rate applies.
- Minimum wage rates are reviewed and adjusted periodically by each province and territory to keep pace with the cost of living.
Understanding minimum wage rates is crucial for both employees and employers. Employees should be aware of the minimum wage they are legally entitled to receive, while employers need to ensure they are complying with labor laws.
Leave a Reply