Ontario’s Minimum Wage to Increase Starting October 1, 2025
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Ontario’s minimum wage is set to rise by 40 cents on October 1, 2025, bringing the general rate to CAD 17.60 per hour. This increase aims to support workers amid rising living costs.
On April 1, 2025, Ontario revealed a noteworthy update that will affect workers throughout the province: a 40-cent increase in the minimum wage, set to take effect on October 1, 2025. This raise will bring the general minimum wage to CAD 17.60 per hour, aligning with the provincial government’s commitment to ensuring fair compensation in response to growing living expenses. Let’s dive into the details of this important change.
Ontario’s General Minimum Wage Hike in 2025
Starting October 1, 2025, Ontario’s general minimum wage will rise to CAD 17.60 per hour, reflecting a 40-cent increase from the existing rate of CAD 17.20, which was implemented on October 1, 2024. This follows a steady pattern of yearly adjustments, as seen in the previous jumps from CAD 16.55, aligning with the province’s approach to keeping wages in step with economic shifts. The latest 2.33% increase is directly linked to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), a measure that tracks changes in the cost of goods and services, ensuring wage growth keeps pace with inflation.
Ontario has consistently worked toward fair compensation, evident in past decisions such as removing the lower minimum wage for liquor servers and aligning their pay with the general rate. For many workers in sectors like retail, manufacturing, and hospitality, this increase means a tangible financial boost - an additional CAD 832 annually for those on a full-time, 40-hour workweek. By tying wage adjustments to inflation, the province aims to help employees maintain their purchasing power amid rising costs for necessities like housing, food, and utilities.
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Student Minimum Wage Increase in Ontario
Ontario’s student workers will also see a wage boost in 2025. Starting October 1, students under 18 will earn a minimum wage of CAD 16.60 per hour, marking an increase from the CAD 16.20 rate set in 2024. This adjustment follows last year’s 60-cent hike, reinforcing the province’s efforts to provide fair compensation for young workers balancing academics and part-time jobs.
The student minimum wage applies to those working 28 hours or less per week during the school year or taking shifts over summer break. The new rate applies to both local high school students and international students in Ontario for their contributions in various workplaces across the province.
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Ontario Minimum Wage for Hunting, Fishing, and Wilderness Guides
In Ontario’s thriving outdoor tourism industry, hunting, fishing, and wilderness guides earn wages based on daily work periods rather than an hourly rate. This pay structure accounts for the unpredictable nature of their jobs, where some days involve only a few hours of guiding, while others demand a full-day commitment.
Starting October 1, 2025, their wages will increase to reflect these demanding roles. Guides working less than five consecutive hours will see their minimum daily pay rise from CAD 86 to CAD 88.05, while those working five or more hours - whether continuous or split across the day - will receive CAD 176.15, up from CAD 172.05. This adjustment benefits those involved in activities like canoeing, rock climbing, and wildlife tours, ensuring fair compensation for guides in remote and northern regions.
Quick Read: Upcoming CRA Benefit Payments for Ontario Residents in February 2025
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Ontario’s upcoming minimum wage increase, set for October 1, 2025, aims to support workers across various sectors, from general employees to outdoor guides. These adjustments reflect the province’s commitment to fair wages amid rising costs. Staying informed on these changes ensures workers and businesses can adapt smoothly.
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