Canada’s unemployment rate dropped to 6.5% as full-time hiring drives gains

Statistics Canada reported that the national unemployment rate fell to 6.5% in June 2026, marking its second consecutive monthly decline. The economy added a modest 18,000 jobs during the month, which helped lift the overall employment rate to 60.8%. Labour market gains were concentrated primarily among core-aged workers and youth, while employment fell for Canadians aged 55 and older. On a year-over-year basis, employment increased by 99,000 positions, driven by a strong rise in full-time jobs. Additionally, average hourly wages grew by 3.3% over the past year to reach $37.20.

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