Minimum hourly wage refers to the lowest amount of money that an employer is legally required to pay an employee for one hour of work. In Canada, it is a labor standard set by provincial governments to establish a baseline level of compensation to ensure that workers receive a fair and minimum standard of living. The minimum wage is designed to protect employees, particularly those in lower-skilled or entry-level positions, by preventing employers from paying unreasonably low wages.
In Canada, the minimum wage serves as a crucial benchmark for ensuring fair compensation for workers across various industries. The country’s provinces and territories independently set their minimum wage rates, reflecting the diverse economic landscapes and living costs. This article delves into the current minimum wage rates across different provinces and territories in Canada, shedding light on the efforts to strike a balance between the needs of workers and the economic conditions of each region.
| Province | Minimum Hourly Wage (2024) |
|---|---|
| Alberta | $15.00 |
| British Columbia | $16.75 |
| Manitoba | $15.30 |
| New Brunswick | $14.75 |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | $15.00 |
| Northwest Territories | $16.05 |
| Nova Scotia | $15.00 |
| Nunavut | $16.00 |
| Ontario | $16.55 |
| Prince Edward Island | $15.00 |
| Quebec | $15.25 |
| Saskatchewan | $14.00 |
| Yukon | $16.77 |
Provincial governments review minimum wages from time to time. The reasons for reviewing and adjusting minimum wages vary but often include considerations such as the cost of living, inflation rates, and economic conditions. Governments aim to strike a balance between providing fair compensation for workers and ensuring that businesses can remain competitive and sustainable.
