Starting May 1, 2025, thousands of workers in Quebec will earn more as the minimum wage rises from $15.75 to $16.10 per hour. This 2.22% increase will impact approximately 217,400 employees, including over 118,000 women—a key demographic in part-time and lower-wage roles.
How Much More Will Workers Earn?
For full-time employees, the raise means an extra $484 in annual income, giving them slightly more breathing room in the face of rising living costs.
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Breakdown of Wage Increases Across Job Categories
The Quebec Ministry of Labour has confirmed adjustments beyond just the general wage. Here’s a detailed comparison of the changes coming into effect on May 1:
| Category | Current Rate | New Rate (May 1, 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| General Minimum Wage | $15.75/hour | $16.10/hour |
| Tipped Employees | $12.60/hour | $12.90/hour |
| Raspberry Pickers | $4.68/kg | $4.78/kg |
| Strawberry Pickers | $1.25/kg | $1.28/kg |
This adjustment keeps the province’s minimum wage at 50.52% of Quebec’s average hourly wage, consistent with policies aimed at gradual, balanced wage growth.
Why This Minimum Wage Boost Matters
While a 35-cent increase may seem modest, it has wider implications for both individuals and the economy.
It Helps Offset the Cost of Living
Essential expenses such as rent, food, and public transit have surged in recent years. A pay bump—even a small one—provides critical support for lower-income earners trying to keep up.
It Benefits Women the Most
Over half of those affected by the wage increase are women, many of whom hold part-time or service-sector jobs. This raise is expected to make a meaningful difference in their financial stability.
It Supports Post-Pandemic Economic Recovery
Industries like retail and hospitality, hit hard by the pandemic, still employ many minimum wage workers. The increase reflects the need to strengthen these sectors without destabilizing them.
How Quebec Stacks Up Against Other Provinces
Even with this new rate, Quebec doesn’t lead the country in minimum wage. Here’s how it compares to other provinces and territories:
| Province/Territory | Current Rate | Upcoming Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Nunavut | $19.00 | TBD |
| Yukon | $17.94 | April 1, 2026 |
| British Columbia | $17.40 | $17.85 (June 1, 2025) |
| Ontario | $17.20 | $17.60 (Oct 1, 2025) |
| Quebec | $15.75 | $16.10 (May 1, 2025) |
| Manitoba | $15.80 | $16.00 (Oct 1, 2025) |
| Alberta | $15.00 | TBD |
| Saskatchewan | $15.00 | TBD |
| Newfoundland & 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 |
| Northwest Territories | $16.05 | TBD |
| Federal Rate | $17.75 | April 1, 2026 |
British Columbia and Nunavut continue to lead, offering the highest minimum wages in Canada.
Who Qualifies for the Tipped Wage?
Tipped employees in Quebec will see their base wage increase to $12.90/hour. This category includes:
- Restaurant servers (excluding fast food)
- Bartenders and bar staff
- Hotel service workers
- Train or ship food servers
- Food service workers in transportation
Tips—whether cash, added to a bill, or charged through service fees—are entirely the employee’s. Employers are not allowed to withhold or redistribute them.
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Impact on Specific Worker Groups
Retail and Hospitality Workers
These sectors employ a high number of minimum wage earners and are expected to see the biggest positive impact from the wage adjustment.
Agricultural Workers
Farm pickers paid by the kilogram will also see small raises. While modest, these adjustments still help rural and seasonal workers improve earnings based on productivity.
Women in the Workforce
Given that a majority of low-wage positions are held by women, this wage hike is a step toward greater economic equity—especially in part-time and service roles.
Is the Increase Enough?
This wage hike is welcomed by many, but it doesn’t end the conversation.
The Supporters’ View
Raising the wage helps meet basic needs and aligns with inflation, particularly as groceries and housing prices continue to climb.
The Critics’ Perspective
Many argue that $16.10/hour still falls short of a living wage, especially in urban centers like Montreal. It may not cover rent, childcare, and transportation adequately.
Concerns From Small Businesses
Some business owners worry the higher wages will lead to price hikes, reduced hours, or layoffs if they can’t absorb the cost. The government, however, believes the raise is modest enough to avoid serious disruptions.
Final Thoughts: What Workers Should Expect
Though not revolutionary, this increase provides welcome relief to thousands of workers living on tight budgets. It also signals that Quebec remains committed to incremental wage growth that attempts to keep pace with economic realities.