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 the 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.