Upcoming Ontario Minimum Wage Increase

On April 1, 2026, the Ontario government announced that the general minimum wage will increase from $17.60 to $17.95 per hour, effective October 1, 2026.

Under the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA), Ontario’s minimum wage is reviewed and adjusted annually. This adjustment is tied to the Ontario Consumer Price Index, which measures inflation.

This latest increase is estimated to apply to more than 700,000 workers. Further, the government estimates that an employee earning minimum wage and working 40 hours per week will see a pay increase of approximately $728 per year.

Minimum Wages Across Canada

The federal minimum wage also increased on April 1, 2026, rising from $17.75 to $18.10 per hour. Several other provinces have announced minimum wage increases as well:

If you have questions about this minimum wage increase or its implications for your workplace, please contact a member of our Labour & Employment group.