Q1 2025 Labour Force Analysis

SREDA’s latest Quarterly Labour Force Analysis highlights a tightening labour market in the Saskatoon Region amid ongoing economic development. With unemployment at 4.8% and a high participation rate of 70.6%, the data points to strong workforce engagement, though persistent labour shortages in key sectors pose challenges.

In analyzing the Q1 2025 data, several key takeaways are seen:

  • Labour Market Tightens: The Saskatoon Region’s unemployment rate drops to 4.8%, paired with a participation rate of 70.6%. While this highlights strong economic activity and workforce engagement, labour shortages in key sectors present ongoing challenges.
  • Continuing Labour Market Strength: The Region’s annual employment growth remains solid at 3.9%, adding 7,100 new jobs, led by full-time positions. However, quarter-over-quarter declines signal the pressures of economic uncertainty on businesses.
  • The Engines of Growth: Sectors such as Healthcare, Construction, Transportation, and Education drive growth, while Mining, Professional Services, and Hospitality have declined. Evolving employment types reflect workforce preferences and immediate economic pressures.

Overall, the Saskatoon Region continues to show resilience and momentum, though attention to workforce gaps and sector-specific challenges will be key to sustaining growth.