The Minimum Wage in Quebec in 2024

When people are searching for new job opportunities or are considering accepting job offers, salary and pay obviously plays an important role. After while current inflation rate in Canada has lowered, people in Quebec and across the country are still dealing with increased interest rates and living costs. The financial compensation which comes with a job is understandably very important for working professionals and their families. 

By knowing about changes happening to the 2024 minimum wage in Quebec, and minimum wages across the country, job seekers will better understand what is fair compensation for their skills and labour, especially for in-demand job roles. 

What is the Minimum Wage in Quebec in 2024? 

The minimum wage in Quebec in 2024 will $15.75 per hour, effective May 1st, 2024. All employees hired or starting their jobs on or after this date cannot be paid a lowered amount. This is a 3.2% increase and a $0.50 raise from the 2023 minimum wage in Quebec of $15.25 per hour. Approximately 200,700 workers, including 111,200 women, will see their salaries increase as a result. 

"We have to understand that raising the wage significantly could have a negative effect and put significant pressure on employers, leading to closures in the retail, restaurant and accommodation sectors, which is undesirable, with all the negative consequences that could have on the Quebec economy." 

- Jean Boulet, Quebec's Labour Minister 

What About The Alternative Minimum For Tip-Earners? 

Quebec is one of two remaining provinces that have an alternative minimum wage, the other being Alberta. Within Quebec, this means that people employed in jobs where they can potentially receive tips as a form additional compensation can legally be paid a lower alternative minimum wage. The alternative minimum wage in Quebec for workers who receive tips will also rise to $12.60 in 2024, an increase of $0.40. There are over 300,000 people employed in jobs where they can be paid the alternative minimum wage. These include servers, bartenders and other roles primarily in the Food and Hospitality industries. 

What Is The Yearly Income Of Minimum Wage Earners In Quebec? 

For a person working full-time hours — 37.5 hours per week and 52 weeks per year — at the 2024 minimum wage in Quebec can expect to earn approximately $30,712.5 over a 12-month period, pre-tax and not factoring in provincial holidays and time off. This information can help job seekers who are considering leaving their job for new opportunities and the financial benefits they can provide. 

Does It Keep Pace With Inflation? 

According to officials, the average inflation rate across Quebec as of April 2024 is 3.4%, and slightly higher in major cities. The 2024 minimum wage increase is 3.2%, which is just slightly below the current inflation rate. The Quebec Minister of Labour is quick to point out that the provincial inflation rate is projected to decrease to 2.3% by the end of the year, the minimum wage increase will outpace inflation at this time. 

While this is a positive sign, it comes after a two-year period of increased rates of inflation, with increased costs of living in Quebec affecting people every day. 

The minimum wage in Quebec in 2024 has increase to 15.75 per hour. The alternative minimum wage in Quebec is $12.60 per hour for those in certain jobs where they receive tips. By knowing their rights regarding salary and pay, job seekers and working professionals in Quebec can be sure their employers are meeting all legal requirements, and determine if they are being adequately compensated for their labour.