As part of Living Wage Week, running Nov. 9 to 13, United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) and the Ontario Living Wage Network (OLWN) are announcing the region’s new living wage of $24.75 an hour, up from $24.60 last year.
The announcement comes during a period of economic uncertainty. However, both UWPH and OLWN are emphasizing the important role fair wages can play in supporting workers, strengthening local businesses and building more resilient communities.
The economic pressures facing Canadian businesses are increasingly evident. According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, 53 per cent of Ontario small businesses reported lower profits since August 2026. At the same time, tariffs and trade uncertainty are adding pressure to businesses and households alike. As communities navigate these challenges, workers should be able to afford essentials, support local businesses and strengthen the local economy.
“Making our communities more livable is an ongoing effort, even in challenging economic times,” said Ryan Erb, CEO of UWPH. “The gap between the minimum and living wage continues to grow. We have to keep talking about the importance of a living wage in the overall health of our region while recognizing the pressures small businesses are under.”
“When businesses face higher costs and households face affordability pressures, we need to pay attention to the role wages play in keeping local economies moving,” said Anne Coleman, Executive Director of the OLWN. “A living wage helps ensure workers have the purchasing power to support the businesses and services in their own communities. It is one important part of building an economy that works for more people, not just one that grows on paper.”
A living wage is calculated by the OLWN to show how much a worker must earn per hour to make ends meet and enjoy modest participation in community life. Calculations gather expenses for three types of households: two adults with two small children, a single parent and a single adult and include any applicable government taxes, transfers and benefits.
For more information about the living wage, GO HERE.
