If you’re working or hiring in Canada’s Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, or Prince Edward Island, brace for change. Starting October 1, 2025, these five Canadian provinces will raise their minimum wages, affecting thousands of workers across retail, hospitality, agriculture, and beyond.
These updates affect not just foreign workers and businesses but also shape the economic landscape for visitors and working holidaymakers alike.
1. Ontario: New Minimum Wage Hits $17.60
Ontario will increase its general minimum wage to $17.60 per hour from October 1, 2025, up from $17.20. This change is part of the province’s annual inflation adjustment and keeps Ontario among the top Canadian provinces for worker pay.
- Student Minimum Wage: $16.60 per hour (for students under 18, working limited hours)
- Homeworkers: $19.35 per hour
Why it matters: These increases ensure fair compensation for students and remote workers, reflecting Ontario’s commitment to economic stability and worker well-being.
2. Manitoba: Inflation-Based Wage to $16.00
Manitoba’s minimum wage will rise to $16.00 per hour on October 1, 2025, up from $15.80. This annual increase is tied to the provincial Consumer Price Index (CPI), helping workers maintain purchasing power amid rising costs.
- Key sectors impacted: Retail, hospitality, and tourism.
3. Saskatchewan: Wage Rises to $15.35
Saskatchewan will see its minimum wage increase to $15.35 per hour this October, up from $15.00. While still one of the lowest in the country, the province uses a balanced formula that considers both inflation and average wages.
- Notable: Saskatchewan’s minimum wage has nearly doubled since 2007, reflecting a long-term commitment to gradual improvement.
4. Nova Scotia: Dual Wage Hikes in 2025
Nova Scotia is making headlines with two increases in 2025. After a jump to $15.70 in April, the minimum wage will climb again to $16.50 per hour in October, the largest single-year increase in the province’s history.
Wage increase timeline in Nova Scotia:
- Oct 1, 2023: $15.00
- Apr 1, 2024: $15.20
- Apr 1, 2025: $15.70
- Oct 1, 2025: $16.50
- Impact: Over 33,000 Nova Scotians will benefit, especially those in tourism and seasonal work.
- Annual formula: Future increases will follow the CPI plus 1%, ensuring ongoing adjustments.
5. Prince Edward Island: Wage Hits $16.50, With More to Come
Prince Edward Island is set for a two-phase increase: the minimum wage will rise to $16.50 per hour on October 1, 2025, and then to $17.00 per hour on April 1, 2026.
- Industries affected: Tourism and agriculture, both vital to PEI’s economy.
- Future outlook: These increases aim to provide greater financial security for low-wage earners and seasonal staff.
Minimum Wages Across Canada: The 2025 Landscape
For travellers and job seekers, understanding the broader wage environment is key. Here’s a snapshot of minimum wages across all provinces and territories as of October 2025:
| Province/Territory | Minimum Wage (Oct 2025) | Next Raise Date |
|---|---|---|
| Federal (private sectors) | $17.75 | April 1, 2026 |
| Ontario | $17.60 | Annually |
| Manitoba | $16.00 | Annually |
| Saskatchewan | $15.35 | Annually |
| Nova Scotia | $16.50 | Annually |
| Prince Edward Island | $16.50 | April 1, 2026 |
| Alberta | $15.00 | TBD |
| British Columbia | $17.85 | June 1, 2026 |
| New Brunswick | $15.65 | April 1, 2026 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $16.00 | April 1, 2026 |
| Northwest Territories | $16.70 | TBD |
| Nunavut | $19.00 | TBD |
| Quebec | $16.10 | May 1, 2026 |
| Yukon | $17.94 | April 1, 2026 |
What These Changes Mean for Travellers and Workers
- Seasonal and Working Holiday Visitors: Higher minimum wages mean better earning potential for those seeking temporary work in Canada’s tourism, hospitality, or agricultural sectors.
- Business Owners: Employers must update payrolls and budgets to reflect new rates, ensuring compliance and worker retention.
- Local Economy: These wage hikes are designed to boost spending power, support local businesses, and create a more equitable economic environment.
Your Guide to Canada’s Economic Landscape
As Canada continues to adjust to economic shifts, staying informed about minimum wage changes is crucial for both residents and visitors. Whether you’re planning a working holiday, a cross-country adventure, or simply want to understand the local job market, these updates will help you navigate Canada’s evolving wage landscape.
Final Thoughts
The minimum wage hikes rolling out on October 1, 2025, mark a continued effort by Canadian provinces to support workers amid inflation and evolving labour demands.
Whether you’re a business owner, a seasonal worker, or someone planning a move to Canada, these numbers matter. Stay informed, stay prepared.
