Reports | September 2, 2026
Growing Workforce Creates Opportunity for Saskatoon Region Businesses
SREDA’s latest analysis shows a growing workforce is improving access to workers, while job creation has yet to keep pace.
The Saskatoon Region’s growing workforce is easing hiring pressures and creating opportunities for businesses looking to expand, according to SREDA’s recent labour analysis.
Over the past year, the Region’s labour force grew by more than 6,500 people, while employment increased by more than 3,000 jobs. The findings point to a shift from the exceptionally tight labour market businesses experienced in recent years.
“Access to people is a key consideration for local businesses deciding their next expansion and new businesses looking for their next location,” said Erin Lawson, CEO of SREDA. “A larger workforce creates opportunities to support local expansion and attract new investment. The priority now is turning that potential into jobs, while recognizing that employers still face challenges finding the skills and experience they need.”
With more people seeking work than new jobs being created, the unemployment rate rose to 6.1%, its highest level since 2021. For job seekers, this means greater competition for available positions, even as total employment continues to grow.
The Region nevertheless remains competitive. Among the 13 major Canadian metropolitan areas compared in the report, Saskatoon ranked second in labour force participation and third in employment rate.
Manufacturing was a notable bright spot, employing more than 15,200 people in June, a record for the Region. Construction and health care also contributed to employment gains, although growth was uneven across industries.
Looking ahead, the key question is whether job creation can keep pace with the expanding workforce.
The Saskatoon Region Labour Force Analysis explores workforce growth, employment and wage trends, offering insight into the opportunities and challenges shaping the Region’s economy.
