Saskatchewan’s youth unemployment rate fell to 11.1 per cent in June, while overall employment continued to grow, according to the latest labour force numbers from Statistics Canada.

The youth unemployment rate dropped from 13.2 per cent in May and 12.1 per cent in June 2025. Saskatchewan’s rate was also below the national youth unemployment rate of 12.7 per cent, ranking third lowest among provinces.

Youth employment increased by 2,400 jobs, or 2.6 per cent, compared to June 2025.

The province says the latest youth unemployment rate is in line with Saskatchewan’s historical pre-pandemic average of 10.7 per cent, based on figures from 1976 to 2019.

Saskatchewan adds jobs as unemployment remains low

Overall, Saskatchewan added 3,400 jobs so far this year, with the province’s unemployment rate sitting at 6.1 per cent in June.

That rate was the third lowest among provinces and below the national unemployment rate of 6.5 per cent.

Employment also increased by 2,900 jobs from May to June on a seasonally adjusted basis, a 0.5 per cent increase that ranked second among provinces.

“Saskatchewan’s labour market continues to demonstrate resiliency,” Immigration and Career Training Minister Eric Schmalz said.

“Our government is committed to ensuring that our labour market remains strong, our economy continues to grow and that Saskatchewan remains the best place in Canada to live, work and raise a family.”

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Several industries see employment growth

Year-over-year employment gains were reported in several sectors.

Accommodation and food services added 2,700 jobs, an increase of 8.3 percent, while health care and social assistance gained 2,400 jobs, up 2.3 percent.

Finance, insurance, real estate and leasing also saw employment increase by 1,600 jobs, or 5.3 percent.

The provincial government also highlighted other economic indicators, including a 36.4 percent increase in merchandise exports between May 2025 and May 2026. Exports during the first five months of 2026 were up 8.2 percent compared to the same period last year.

Saskatchewan also ranked second among provinces for year-over-year growth in housing starts.

The government says the growth is supported by its labour market and investment strategies, which aim to build the workforce needed to support Saskatchewan’s economy and attract further private investment.