The Ontario Minimum wage is increasing to $17.95 an hour effective October 1, 2026, marking the second highest rate among provinces

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.

Quick Facts

• Ontario’s minimum wage increases every October 1 based on the Ontario CPI, as required by the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA)
• Roughly 35 per cent of minimum-wage workers are employed in retail trade and 24 per cent in accommodation and food services
• Ontario maintains one of the highest minimum wages in Canada