Statistics Canada data showed the jobless rate at 6.5% in June with a net gain of about 18,000 positions, while labor force participation held at 65.0%.
Canada’s unemployment rate dipped to 6.5% in June from 6.6% in May, matching its lowest level since mid-2024 as the labor market showed signs of stabilizing after a volatile first half of 2026. The economy added a net 18,000 jobs during the month, with most of the increase coming from part-time work, while the labor force participation rate was unchanged at 65.0%. The figures suggest some improvement in employment conditions without pointing to an overheating economy, leaving the Bank of Canada room to keep its policy options open on future rate moves.