Starting May 1, 2025, Quebec’s minimum wage will increase by 2.22%, from $15.75 to $16.10 per hour. This adjustment will boost the annual disposable income of minimum wage earners by approximately $484, benefiting around 217,400 workers, including 118,400 women, according to Quebec’s Ministry of Labour.
Here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 minimum wage hike in Quebec, how it compares across Canada, and its impact on workers.
Key Highlights of Quebec’s 2025 Minimum Wage Increase
- General Minimum Wage: The minimum wage will increase from $15.75 to $16.10 per hour, effective May 1, 2025.
- Tipped Workers: The minimum wage for employees who regularly receive tips will rise from $12.60 to $12.90 per hour.
- Agricultural Workers:
- Raspberry pickers: The minimum pay per kilogram will increase from $4.68 to $4.78.
- Strawberry pickers: The minimum pay per kilogram will rise from $1.25 to $1.28.
- Economic Impact: The 35-cent increase is relatively modest, reflecting caution due to economic challenges in sectors like retail and hospitality, which have faced closures and other difficulties.
- Policy Goal: The 2025 adjustment is designed to maintain Quebec’s minimum wage at 50% of the average hourly wage, with the ratio reaching 50.52%.
How Quebec’s Minimum Wage Compares to Other Canadian Provinces
Quebec’s new minimum wage of $16.10 per hour is still below the federal minimum wage, which will rise to $17.30 per hour starting April 1, 2024. It also lags behind several other provinces, as shown below:
| Province/Territory | Current Minimum Hourly Wage | Next Scheduled Increase |
|---|---|---|
| Canada (Federal) | $17.75 | April 1, 2026 |
| Quebec | $15.75 | $16.10 (May 1, 2025) |
| British Columbia | $17.40 | $17.85 (June 1, 2025) |
| Ontario | $17.20 | $17.60 (October 1, 2025) |
| Manitoba | $15.80 | $16.00 (October 1, 2025) |
| Yukon | $17.94 | April 1, 2026 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $16.00 | April 1, 2026 |
| Nova Scotia | $15.65 | April 1, 2026 |
| Prince Edward Island | $16.00 | TBD |
| New Brunswick | $15.65 | April 1, 2026 |
| Nunavut | $19.00 | TBD |
| Northwest Territories | $16.05 | TBD |
| Alberta | $15.00 | TBD |
| Saskatchewan | $15.00 | TBD |
The increase in Quebec’s minimum wage will benefit workers in industries like retail, hospitality, and agriculture. However, the small 2.22% hike reflects the balance between supporting workers and maintaining business stability, especially in light of ongoing economic pressures.
By comparison, Ontario’s minimum wage will rise to $17.60 per hour by October 2025, making it one of the highest in the country.
Despite the increase, some debate whether the adjustment is enough to keep up with the rising cost of living.
Which Province Has the Highest Minimum Wage in Canada?
Nunavut leads the country with a minimum wage of $19.00 per hour, followed by Yukon at $17.94 per hour. Among provinces, British Columbia has the highest at $17.40, closely followed by Ontario at $17.20.
Who Qualifies for Quebec’s Tipped Minimum Wage?
Workers who regularly receive tips are eligible for the tipped minimum wage of $12.90 per hour. This includes workers in:
- Restaurants (excluding fast food)
- Businesses selling food for off-premises consumption
- Businesses selling alcohol or hosting events with alcohol sales
- Ships or trains serving food/alcohol
- Lodging establishments, including campgrounds
What Are Tips?
Tips are voluntary payments made by customers for services, and they may include service charges on receipts. Employers must ensure that tips are fully passed on to the employee who provided the service.
FAQ
- What is the new Quebec minimum hourly wage in 2025?
The new minimum wage will be $16.10 per hour, effective May 1, 2025. - What is Ontario’s minimum hourly wage in 2025?
Ontario’s minimum wage is $17.20, rising to $17.60 on October 1, 2025. - How does Quebec’s minimum wage compare to the federal minimum?
Quebec’s $16.10 is lower than the federal minimum of $17.75 (effective April 1, 2026).
Stay tuned for more updates on Canada’s evolving wage landscape and share this article with friends and family in Quebec!
