Canada June jobs report adds 18,200 jobs, unemployment slips to 6.5%

Statistics Canada reported that the Canadian economy added a net 18,200 jobs in June 2026, far exceeding the forecast of 10,000. The unemployment rate fell to 6.5% from 6.6%, marking a second consecutive monthly decline. Most of the hiring was part‑time, concentrated in accommodation and food services, wholesale and retail trade, while manufacturing shed 17,000 jobs amid tariff‑related uncertainty. Average hourly wages for permanent employees rose 3.7% year‑over‑year, supporting household spending. Youth unemployment improved to 12.7% from 13.4%, though it remains above pre‑pandemic levels. The stronger labour market nudged the Canadian dollar higher, with the loonie reaching a three‑week high of C$1.4125 per US dollar. Provincial data showed Ontario losing 16,700 jobs in June, keeping its unemployment rate at 7% above the national average. City‑level figures released by Statistics Canada showed modest variations, with rates ranging from 3.4% in Saguenay to 9.2% in Kelowna.