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, affecting more than 700,000 workers across the province. This annual increase, tied to Ontario’s Consumer Price Index at 1.9 per cent.
“Ontario workers are the engine of this province. 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.” – David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development
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.
The government says it 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.
