Minimum wage per hour in Canada in 2023. Is it possible to survive?
The wage per hour rate varies from province to province, but it is lower than the living wage. Is it possible to live decently on such wages or will I have to make ends meet?
In addition to wages per hour, Canadians must also consider the cost of living. Especially immigrants. Life in Canada is quite expensive, and when moving it is important to choose the provinces with the most suitable economic situation.
As of January 1, 2023, the minimum wage per hour was:
| Canadian provinces and territories | Minimum hourly rate |
| Alberta | $15 CAD |
| British Columbia | $15,65 CAD |
| Quebec | $14,25 CAD |
| Manitoba | $13,50 CAD |
| New Brunswick | $13,75 CAD |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $13,70 CAD |
| Northwest Territories | $15,70 CAD |
| Nova Scotia | $13,60 CAD |
| Nunavut | $16 CAD |
| Ontario | $15,50 CAD |
| Prince Edward Island | $14,50 CAD |
| Saskatchewan | $13 CAD |
| Yukon | $15,70 CAD |
For 2023, many provincial governments have planned wage increases as well as a number of benefits for Canadian citizens.
As you can see from the table, the pay varies from region to region. But in any case, pay in all regions is less than the cost of living. For example:
- in Toronto, this figure should be $23.15 CAD. This is the amount of money Toronto residents must earn at least per hour;
- In Vancouver, the cost of living is higher, so the hourly rate must start at $24.08 CAD;
- In Victoria, you have to earn $24.29 CAD per hour, and in Canadian London, you have to earn $18.05 CAD per hour;
- In Ottawa, it is desirable to earn $19.60 CAD per hour.
A living wage takes into account prices and expenses for such categories as housing, food, transportation, and child care. Then the average amount is calculated, including high-speed Internet access and medical expenses as well as taxes.
In Canada, there are active community organizations that defend workers' rights and fight for higher wages and safe and healthy working conditions. Given the current situation, human rights activists continue to fight for a minimum wage of $20 CAD for everyone.
