Canada's December employment holds steady as unemployment climbs to 6.8%

Canada's labour market showed minimal employment change in December 2025, adding just 8,200 jobs while the employment rate remained at 60.9%. However, the unemployment rate increased by 0.3 percentage points to 6.8% as more Canadians entered the job search. Employment gains were concentrated among workers aged 55 and older, with a 33,000 increase, while youth employment declined by 27,000. The healthcare and social assistance sectors led job growth, adding 21,000 new positions, offsetting losses in professional services and accommodation. Regionally, Quebec posted employment gains of 16,000, while Alberta and Saskatchewan experienced declines. Average hourly wages grew 3.4% year-over-year to $37.06, reflecting continued but moderating wage pressure.

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