Ontario Raising Minimum Wage

Minimum wage increasing to $17.95 an hour effective October 1, 2026, marking the second highest rate among provinces

The Ontario government is increasing the general minimum wage from $17.60 to $17.95 an hour on October 1, 2026, benefiting more than 700,000 workers across the province. This annual increase, tied to Ontario’s Consumer Price Index at 1.9 per cent, helps ensure wages continue to reflect economic conditions while protecting workers and providing businesses with greater stability. This is a balanced approach that supports workers’ earning power and helps keep Ontario competitive in a time of global economic uncertainty.

“Ontario workers are the engine of this province,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. "By raising the minimum wage to one of the highest in Canada, our government is putting more money in the pockets of Ontario workers, supporting families through economic uncertainty and giving businesses the stability and predictability they need to plan and grow."

Increasing the minimum wage delivers on our government’s ongoing plan to protect workers, help families get ahead and support a strong, stable economy during international trade uncertainty and changing labour market needs.

A worker earning the general minimum wage and working 40 hours per week will see an annual pay increase of approximately $728. The increase builds on the government’s broader economic and workforce initiatives, including Ontario’s multi‑year plan to invest in training, protect critical industries and safeguard workplaces across the province.

Our government continues to take decisive action to protect workers, businesses and communities in the face of global economic uncertainty. By ensuring fair wages, investing in skills training and helping employers retain experienced staff, the province is building a more competitive self-resilient and self-sufficient economy that can create good-paying jobs for generations to come.

Quick Facts

• Ontario’s minimum wage increases every October 1 based on the Ontario CPI, as required by the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA).
• Roughly 35 per cent of minimum-wage workers are employed in retail trade and 24 per cent in accommodation and food services.
• Ontario maintains one of the highest minimum wages in Canada.