Quebec labor market shows provincial job losses amid regional stability

The labor market in Quebec has experienced significant shifts as of September 2026. At the provincial level, Quebec lost approximately 49,400 jobs in a single month, representing a 1.1% decrease. This decline was the largest among Canadian provinces, with the provincial unemployment rate rising to 6%. Most of these losses occurred in full-time positions, particularly within the public sector and self-employment, while the private sector saw an increase of 24,100 jobs.

In the Quebec City metropolitan area, the situation presents a different profile. The unemployment rate remained stable at 4.3%, which is considered a level consistent with full employment and remains significantly lower than the Canadian national average of 6.5%. However, the region has seen a decline in employment for seven consecutive months, losing 400 jobs in September compared to August. The manufacturing sector in this region has been notably impacted by exposure to American tariffs.