openPR Logo
Press release

Ontario Raises Minimum Wage to $17.60 Per Hour Starting October 1, 2025

08-11-2025 08:54 PM CET | Associations & Organizations

Press release from: ABNewswire

Ontario Raises Minimum Wage to $17.60 Per Hour Starting October

Image: https://www.abnewswire.com/upload/2025/08/6efa6f0fbc66513c39eb9c361fece16e.jpg

Ontario's minimum wage [https://immigrationnewscanada.ca/new-minimum-wage-increase-ontario-2025/] is set to rise once again, with the provincial government announcing a new general rate of $17.60 per hour, effective October 1, 2025. The 40-cent increase from the current $17.20 rate reflects a 2.33% adjustment, tied directly to the Ontario Consumer Price Index (CPI), and is part of the province's ongoing effort to ensure wages keep pace with rising living costs.

The change marks the third consecutive year Ontario has raised its general minimum wage to align with inflation. This automatic indexing, introduced in 2022, is designed to protect low-income workers from the mounting pressures of housing, food, and utility costs across the province.

Breakdown of the New Wage Rates

The new $17.60 general minimum wage will apply to most workers in Ontario, including retail, hospitality, and factory employees. For a full-time employee working 40 hours per week, this translates to an additional $832 annually, offering modest relief amid economic challenges.

But the increase doesn't stop there. The update also includes changes to special minimum wage categories, each tailored to distinct worker groups:

Students under 18 working part-time (28 hours or fewer during school or during breaks) will see their minimum wage rise to $16.60 per hour, up from $16.20.

Homeworkers, defined as employees performing paid work from their residence, will earn $19.35 per hour, an increase from $18.90. This applies to a range of roles, including sewing, telemarketing, digital work, and more.

Hunting, fishing, and wilderness guides, who are paid on a daily block basis, will receive:

* $88.05 per day for less than 5 consecutive hours (up from $86)
* $176.15 per day for 5 or more hours, consecutive or not (up from $172.05)

These adjustments highlight Ontario's recognition of diverse working arrangements, especially as remote work and gig-based employment continue to grow.

Context and Criticism: Is It Enough?

While the increase offers some financial reprieve, advocacy groups argue it still falls short of a true "living wage"-the amount a worker needs to earn to afford basic needs without financial stress. According to Ontario Living Wage Network data released in November 2024, the average living wage across the province's 10 major regions is $21.66 per hour, with the Greater Toronto Area reaching $26.00.

That means the new $17.60 minimum wage remains $3.84 below the provincial living wage average and $8.40 below the GTA benchmark. In high-cost cities, workers earning minimum wage may still face difficulties covering essentials such as rent, groceries, transportation, and childcare.

A full-time worker earning $17.60 per hour grosses about $2,851 per month, before deductions. In the GTA, where average rent often exceeds $2,000, this leaves little room for other expenses. Critics argue that a bolder increase (closer to $20 or $21 per hour) is necessary to close the gap and meaningfully reduce poverty.

Regional Living Wage Comparison (2024)

Region

Living Wage 2024

% Increase from 2023

Greater Toronto Area

$26.00

3.79%

Grey Bruce Perth Huron Simcoe

$23.05

1.32%

Ottawa

$22.80

3.87%

Eastern Ontario

$21.65

5.10%

Dufferin-Wellington-Waterloo

$21.30

1.91%

Hamilton

$21.30

2.40%

Niagara-Brant-Haldimand

$20.90

2.70%

Northern Ontario

$20.30

2.53%

Southwest Ontario

$19.85

6.43%

London-Elgin-Oxford

$19.50

3.45%

These figures highlight the growing gap between minimum wages and actual cost-of-living benchmarks. Even in the lowest-cost regions, a $17.60 wage falls short.

A Changing Labour Landscape

Ontario's labour market continues to evolve. The province's inclusion of specific rates for homeworkers acknowledges the surge in remote employment. From call centre agents to freelance developers, this group of workers now makes up a significant share of the workforce. The $19.35 rate reflects the additional expenses borne by remote workers, such as internet bills, electricity, and home office setups.

Meanwhile, students, many of whom are international or balancing academics with part-time employment, are also set to benefit, albeit at a reduced rate. The rationale for a lower student wage remains controversial, especially in light of tuition increases and inflationary pressures.

Outdoor guides, whose work falls outside of traditional employment structures, have also seen their minimum wages rise, reinforcing the government's effort to cover all worker types under its inflation-tied strategy.

What Comes Next?

Ontario's wage adjustment, announced on April 1, 2025, gives employers and workers six months to prepare for implementation. For some, this increase is a necessary and welcome update. For others, it is still insufficient to meet the financial realities of life in Canada's most populous province.

Whether future increases will bring Ontario closer to achieving a genuine living wage remains to be seen. Until then, the debate continues among policymakers, business owners, workers, and advocacy groups.

For all the latest news like this, stay connected with Immigration News Canada [https://immigrationnewscanada.ca/] for timely updates on labour market trends, wage legislation, and how changes in employment law may affect newcomers and international students across the country.

Media Contact
Company Name: Immigration News Canada
Contact Person: Kamal Deep Singh
Email:Send Email [https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=ontario-raises-minimum-wage-to-1760-per-hour-starting-october-1-2025]
Phone: 647-853-1717
Country: Canada
Website: https://immigrationnewscanada.ca/

Legal Disclaimer: Information contained on this page is provided by an independent third-party content provider. ABNewswire makes no warranties or responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you are affiliated with this article or have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article and would like it to be removed, please contact retract@swscontact.com



This release was published on openPR.

Permanent link to this press release:

Copy
Please set a link in the press area of your homepage to this press release on openPR. openPR disclaims liability for any content contained in this release.

You can edit or delete your press release Ontario Raises Minimum Wage to $17.60 Per Hour Starting October 1, 2025 here

News-ID: 4140623 • Views:

More Releases from ABNewswire

Central Florida Notary Express, LLC Expands 24/7 Notary and Mobile Notary Services Across Greater Orlando
Central Florida Notary Express, LLC Expands 24/7 Notary and Mobile Notary Servic …
Winter Park, FL - Central Florida Notary Express, LLC, a 24/7 provider of notary and mobile notary services and certified loan signings, announced expanded same-day coverage across the Greater Orlando area, including Orlando, Winter Park, Maitland, Casselberry, Winter Springs, DeLand, DeBary, Deltona, Sanford, and Lake Mary. The company offers on-site and curbside notarization for jurats, acknowledgments, power of attorney (POA), wills, health care surrogate forms, copy certifications, and real-estate loan
Stafili Wine Cafe Brings the Heart of Greece to New York City - A Sophisticated Destination for Wine Lovers and Food Enthusiasts
Stafili Wine Cafe Brings the Heart of Greece to New York City - A Sophisticated …
Nestled in the vibrant neighborhoods of West Village and Tribeca, Stafili Wine Cafe is redefining New York's dining scene with an unforgettable Greek-inspired experience that blends exceptional wines, authentic Mediterranean cuisine, and an inviting, intimate atmosphere. Whether you're seeking a cozy date night, an after-work escape, or a refined venue for social gatherings, Stafili promises an indulgent journey through the flavors, aromas, and spirit of Greece - without ever leaving
Solar Heroes Launches Premium Solar Control Window Film Solutions in Singapore, Transforming Homes and Workspaces Into Cool, Energy-Efficient Sanctuaries
Solar Heroes Launches Premium Solar Control Window Film Solutions in Singapore, …
As Singapore continues to face soaring temperatures and rising energy costs, Solar Heroes, a premium solar control window film supplier and installer, is stepping up to deliver an innovative solution for homes, offices, and commercial spaces. With a commitment to sustainability, comfort, and performance, Solar Heroes is revolutionizing how Singaporeans experience indoor living through advanced solar control window film technology. More information can be found at https://solarheroes.sg. Singapore - As Singapore
Dlinxoutreach Unlocks the Power of AI Ecosystems for Companies Seeking Higher ROI
Dlinxoutreach Unlocks the Power of AI Ecosystems for Companies Seeking Higher RO …
In today's fintech-driven digital economy, artificial intelligence is no longer a speculative technology; it is a monetizable growth driver. Global private investment in AI reached $252 billion in 2024, a 44.5% year-over-year increase according to Stanford's AI Index. In financial services, 77% of executives report achieving positive ROI within the first year of AI deployment, according to Bank Automation News. A Boston Consulting Group study further shows that one in

All 5 Releases


More Releases for Ontario

Kidd's Home Hardware and Ontario Beaver Homes Have Teamed Up to Serve Northern O …
Image: https://www.globalnewslines.com/uploads/2025/05/1748345555.jpg Kidd's Home Hardware operates across Northern Ontario. The company stocks hardware essentials, plumbing materials, electrical components, and outdoor equipment. Each store caters to regional requirements that differ significantly from southern Ontario needs. The retailer provides comprehensive services beyond standard retail operations. Staff offer technical guidance for complex installations. The company maintains extensive inventory for emergency repairs. Customer support includes project planning assistance and material recommendations. Northern Ontario presents distinct challenges for
Separation Agreement Ontario Introduces Affordable and Remote Joint Divorce Serv …
Separation Agreement Ontario is committed to providing high-quality legal services at transparent and competitive rates. The joint divorce package is priced at $900 plus Harmonized Sales Tax (HST). Separation Agreement Ontario, a leading family law firm, is proud to announce its innovative and cost-effective joint divorce services, now accessible remotely to residents throughout Ontario. This initiative aims to simplify the divorce process, making it more efficient and affordable for couples seeking
Leman Construction: Redefining Construction Excellence Across Ontario
Image: https://www.getnews.info/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/1712680377.png Bathroom Renovation Toronto by Leman Construction Leman Construction is expanding its custom building and high-end renovation services across Ontario, targeting areas like Toronto and Hamilton. The company, known for innovative and sustainable practices, offers specialized services such as kitchen and bathroom renovations, custom homes, and basement transformations. This expansion aims to meet increasing demand for quality construction and emphasizes Leman Construction's commitment to enhancing living and working environments across the
Ontario Farms CBD Oil Review-Does Ontario Farms CBD Work-Complete Info
After continuously managing pain, strain, insomnia, and such a lot of different fitness troubles, all you want is comfort. Natural relief. Which is why you need the Ontario Farms CBD Oil that will help you heal quicker and greater certainly than ever! This extremely good tincture makes use of a hundred% natural components and ZERO THC to make certain that you enhance your fitness with out huge troubles alongside the
AI Video Analytics Web Presentation for the Ontario Police College and Criminal …
3dEYE was proud to participate and instruct a technical course at the Ontario Police College for CISO (Criminal Intelligence Services Ontario) providing a thorough overview of AI video analytics to a class of police learners. In collaboration with the Saskatoon and Peel Police Service, Igor Keel was the guest speaker, providing an unbiased review of the current state of surveillance analytics. Presenting a wide scope of topics including the purpose
REAL ESTATE SALES CAREER - Whitby, Ontario
Time to start your Real Estate Career. Royal LePage Terrequity office in Whitby is actively growing and are looking for bright, dynamic individuals who want to start a rewarding career. Not only a profession, real estate is a passion that allows you to be your own boss, drive your income potential and positively impact people’s lives. Please join us for a free Seminar on: MAY 30TH, 2019 Time: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Where: