Canada’s job market in April 2025 paints a picture of subtle transition. While average weekly earnings saw a year-over-year growth of 4.43%, bringing the weekly average to $1,297, some sectors experienced notable dips in employment. This comes after a 4.06% increase recorded in March, and a month-over-month gain of 0.8%. But what’s behind the numbers? The growth in earnings isn’t just a result of pay raises—it also reflects changes in who is working, how many hours they’re putting in, and the kinds of jobs being created or phased out.
Let’s explore what these numbers mean for job seekers, employers, and immigrants aiming to join the Canadian workforce.
April 2025: A Snapshot of Canada’s Labour Market
| Indicator | April 2025 | Change |
| Average Weekly Earnings | $1,297 | +0.8% (Month-over-Month) |
| Year-over-Year Earnings Growth | — | +4.43% |
| Average Weekly Hours Worked | 33.5 hours | No change |
| Total Job Vacancies | 501,300 | -16,800 (-3.2% from March) |
Which Sectors Lost Jobs?
While wage growth continues, payroll numbers have dipped in 9 out of 20 key sectors. This trend is influenced by inflation, seasonal hiring patterns, and cautious employer spending.
Industries with the most payroll losses in April:
- Manufacturing: -7,300 jobs (-0.5%)
- Accommodation & Food Services: -5,800 jobs (-0.4%)
- Retail Trade: -5,000 jobs (-0.3%)
- Administrative & Support Services: -4,700 jobs (-0.6%)
Within retail trade, the job loss is more visible in sub-sectors:
- Building and garden supply stores: -1,800 (-1.3%)
- Clothing and accessories: -1,000 (-0.5%)
- General merchandise: -1,000 (-0.4%)
Notably, the manufacturing sector alone has seen a net loss of 13,500 jobs between January and April 2025.
Which Sectors Are Growing?
Despite the downturn in some industries, others are on the rise—especially those related to public service and health.
Top performing sectors in April:
- Health Care & Social Assistance: +10,800 jobs (+0.4%)
- Public Administration: +6,200 jobs (+0.5%)
- Educational Services: +5,200 jobs (+0.4%)
The increase in public sector jobs, especially at local and municipal levels, suggests an effort to strengthen regional services. The rebound in healthcare jobs also compensates for losses recorded in March, providing a positive outlook for those in this sector.
Job Vacancies: A Sign of Employer Caution
Job vacancies dropped by 3.2% in April, down to 501,300 positions. This decline follows nine months of relative stability and represents a 15.4% year-over-year fall in open roles.
What Does This Mean for Newcomers?
- More competition for available roles
- Slower hiring in retail, food services, and manufacturing
- Stable demand in the public sector and healthcare
If you’re entering Canada on a work permit or planning to immigrate soon, aligning your skills with these growing industries could improve your chances of success.
What This Means for Immigrants and Job Seekers
Canada’s wage growth, despite job vacancies dropping, sends a clear message: The economy remains resilient. If you’re planning your career in Canada, here’s what to keep in mind:
- Earnings are growing steadily, even in a cautious hiring environment
- Healthcare and education sectors are expanding
- Retail and manufacturing are seeing temporary slowdowns
- Work hours remain consistent, indicating stable job structures
For newcomers, this means staying flexible and targeting the right industries can still lead to success in the Canadian job market.
Wage Growth Signals Opportunity for Newcomers in Canada
The 4.43% increase in average weekly earnings in Canada is more than just a statistic. It reflects the country’s ongoing ability to support competitive wages, even as certain industries tighten their hiring practices. While some areas of the labour market are cooling, sectors like public administration, healthcare, and education are gaining ground. This creates new opportunities for skilled immigrants ready to contribute where demand is high.
As Canada continues to adapt to shifting economic conditions, staying informed about job trends is key for building a successful future. Follow ImmigCanada for more updates on how wage changes and labour market movements affect your pathway to permanent residence and employment success.
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