How Much Is the Minimum Wage in Ontario?

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Ontario’s minimum wage rates change every October 1 to keep pace with inflation and the rising cost of living. As an employer, staying compliant with these mandatory increases helps you stay current with the province’s Employment Standards Act.

In this article, we outline the exact minimum wage rates that apply from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026, explain which rate applies to each type of employee and highlight the key compliance steps.

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General minimum wage

The general minimum wage applies to most employees in Ontario. As of October 1, 2025, you pay these employees at least $17.60 per hour.

Student minimum wage

The student minimum wage applies to employees who are 18 years old or younger and work no more than 28 hours per week when school is in session, or who work during a school holiday or summer break. The student minimum wage is $16.60 per hour.

Liquor servers minimum wage

Employees who serve alcohol in a licensed establishment now receive the general minimum wage, as the separate liquor servers’ rate has been eliminated effective October 1, 2025. These employees receive at least $17.60 per hour.

Servers can continue to earn additional income through tips and gratuities.

Hunting, fishing and wilderness guides’ minimum wage

Guides who are 18 or older and lead, teach or assist clients engaged in hunting, fishing or wilderness activities qualify for a special daily minimum. The rate is $88.05 for working fewer than five consecutive hours in a day, or $176.15 for working five or more hours in a day, whether the hours are consecutive or not.

A wilderness guide includes individuals employed to guide activities such as backcountry skiing, canoeing, hiking, rock climbing or wildlife viewing.

Homeworkers minimum wage

Employees who perform paid work from their own homes, known as homeworkers, receive at least 110% of the general minimum wage. As of October 1, 2025, the homeworker minimum wage is $19.35 per hour.

Students who work from home receive the homeworker rate rather than the lower student rate.

Ontario’s minimum wage is now $17.60 per hour (October 1, 2025–September 30, 2026). Students under 19 qualify for $16.60, liquor servers receive the full general rate, homeworkers earn $19.35 and wilderness guides retain daily rates of $88.05 or $176.15. Accurate classification and updated payroll systems such as these can help keep your business fully compliant with the Employment Standards Act.