Minimum wage is going up again across the province.
Nova Scotia had its largest minimum wage increase ever in 2025. Hourly rates went up in two parts, with a $1.30 increase overall, and the minimum hourly rate was $16.50 as of Oct. 1.
But minimum wage workers can expect their paychecks to increase again in April 2026, this time to $16.75, followed by another increase to $17 in October.
Minimum wage workers primarily work in retail, accommodations, and the food industry, according to government statistics.
Some additional stats show:
- 57 per cent are female
- 39 per cent have post-secondary education
- 38 per cent are over age 30
- 72 per cent hold permanent jobs
- 41 per cent work full-time
A government committee on minimum wage, made up of employers and employees, recommended the government apply the legislated formula, which is increasing the wage by the consumer price index plus one per cent.
They also recommended the increase come in two parts to give businesses more time to adjust.
