Ontario’s general minimum wage is set to rise from $17.60 to $17.95 per hour effective October 1, 2026. This update reflects the latest change to minimum wage rates in the province.

The increase is part of Ontario’s annual adjustment mechanism, which is tied to inflation and calculated using the Ontario Consumer Price Index (CPI), in accordance with the Employment Standards Act, 2000.

Job Category	Oct 1, 2024 – Sep 30, 2025	Oct 1, 2025 – Sep 30, 2026	Effective Oct 1, 2026
General Minimum Wage	$17.20 per hour	$17.60 per hour	$17.95 per hour
Student Minimum Wage	$16.20 per hour	$16.60 per hour	$16.90 per hour
Homeworkers Wage	$18.90 per hour	$19.35 per hour	$19.70 per hour
Hunting, Fishing & Wilderness Guides (less than 5 hours/day)	-start=”572″ data-end=”589″>$86.00 per day	$88.05 per day	$89.75 per day
Hunting, Fishing & Wilderness Guides (5+ hours/day)	$172.05 per day	$176.15 per day	$179.50 per day

How Much More Will Employees Earn?

While a 35-cent hourly increase may seem small, it can make a noticeable difference over the course of a year.

For someone working full-time:

• Previous wage: $17.60/hour
• New wage: $17.95/hour
• Increase: $0.35/hour

Assuming a 40-hour work week:

• Additional earnings each week: $14.00
• Additional earnings each month: Approximately $56
• Additional earnings each year: Approximately $728

Employees working overtime or additional shifts may earn even more as a result of the increase.

Who Is Entitled to Minimum Wage?

Most employees working in Ontario are entitled to receive at least the applicable minimum wage under the Employment Standards Act.

This includes many workers employed in:

• Retail stores
• Restaurants and cafés
• Hospitality
• Warehouses
• Customer service
• Office administration
• Manufacturing
• Cleaning services
• Delivery and logistics
• Personal services

Both full-time and part-time employees are generally entitled to minimum wage protection.

Are There Any Exceptions?

Yes. Some occupations are subject to different minimum wage rules or are exempt from Ontario’s standard minimum wage provisions.

Examples include certain:

• Students working during the school year
• Homeworkers
• Hunting and fishing guides
• Certain agricultural workers
• Individuals in occupations specifically exempted under the Employment Standards Act

Whether an exemption applies depends on the employee’s job duties and the legislation governing their employment.

When Must Employers Start Paying the New Rate?

The new minimum wage becomes legally effective on October 1, 2026.

Employers must ensure that all eligible employees receive at least the applicable minimum wage beginning with hours worked on or after that date.

Employees cannot legally agree to work for less than minimum wage, even if they voluntarily accept a lower amount.

If You’re Not Being Paid Minimum Wage

If you’re earning less than the applicable minimum wage — and you’re not exempt under Ontario’s Employment Standards Act — you may be entitled to back pay, compensation, and other remedies.

Ontario adjusts minimum wage annually based on the Ontario Consumer Price Index(CPI). New rates are typically announced by April 1 and take effect October 1 (Ontario Government – Minimum Wage Rules).

If your employer has failed to pay you the minimum wage — or owes you unpaid wages — you can:

• Use the Ontario Employment Standards Self-Service Tool to estimate what you’re owed
• File a claim with the Ministry of Labour within two years
• Or contact an employment lawyer in Ontario to understand your full legal options.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Ontario minimum wage increase?

Ontario’s new minimum wage takes effect on October 1, 2026.

What is the Ontario minimum wage in 2026?

Beginning October 1, 2026, Ontario’s general minimum wage is $17.95 per hour.

Does minimum wage apply to part-time employees?

Yes. Part-time employees are generally entitled to receive at least the applicable minimum wage for every hour worked.

Can an employer pay less than minimum wage if I agree?

No. Employees cannot contract out of their rights under the Employment Standards Act. Any agreement providing for wages below the legal minimum is generally unenforceable.

Do tips count toward minimum wage?

No. In most circumstances, tips and gratuities cannot be used to satisfy an employer’s obligation to pay at least the applicable minimum wage.

Can I be fired for asking about minimum wage?

Ontario law generally prohibits employers from penalizing employees for exercising their rights under the Employment Standards Act, including raising concerns about wages.