Reports | September 2, 2026
2026 Saskatoon Region Labour Force Analysis
A growing workforce is bringing balance to the Saskatoon Region’s labour market.
After several years of exceptionally tight conditions, the Saskatoon Region’s labour market is showing signs of balance through the first half of 2026, as a growing workforce provides employers with improved access to talent.
The Region’s working-age population increased by more than 3% over the past year, while the labour force grew by more than 6,500 people. Employment also continued to reach record levels, increasing by 1.6% and adding more than 3,000 jobs.
While hiring remained positive, employment growth did not keep pace with the rapid expansion of the labour supply. As a result, the Region’s unemployment rate increased to 6.1%, its highest level since 2021.
Despite the increase in unemployment, Saskatoon continued to rank among the strongest labour markets of major Canadian CMAs. The Region recorded the second-highest labour force participation rate and third-highest employment rate, reflecting continued workforce engagement and employment strength.
Wage growth also points to sustained demand for workers. Saskatchewan’s average hourly wage increased by 4.0%, outpacing the national increase of 3.6%. Construction, manufacturing, agriculture and health care continued to drive employment gains across the province.
Overall, the latest indicators suggest the Saskatoon Region’s labour market is adjusting rather than weakening. Employment continues to grow while a larger available workforce is easing some of the exceptionally tight conditions experienced in recent years, creating a more balanced environment for employers and job seekers.
