Salary projection breakdowns

Provincial salary projections for 2025 show some regional variations:

  • B.C. leads with a projected 3.60% increase in highest average base salaries, followed by Alberta at 3.54% and New Brunswick at 3.50%
  • Quebec saw strong salary growth of 3.85% in 2024, but expects growth to slow to 3.41% in 2025
  • Nova Scotia consistently shows the lowest projected increases among provinces with statistically significant data at 2.94% for both 2024 and 2025

Regarding specific industries, the highest projected increases for 2025 are expected in construction (4.13%), real estate (3.92%) and business services (3.90%). These same three industries also led salary growth in 2024.

For 2025, the lowest salary increases are expected in public administration (2.75%), taking the place of information technology, which held that position in 2024.

With respect to salary structures in Canada, the forecasted increase for 2025 (2.72%) is slightly lower than the actual increase implemented in 2024 (2.89%).

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Challenges for employees and employers

Elsewhere within the survey, employers are putting an increased focus on upskilling, training and development programs, as well as cultivating current and future leadership.

In response to ongoing challenges, 59% of organizations have implemented, or plan to implement programs to enhance financial wellbeing. These initiatives include healthcare spending accounts (24%), financial literacy education (20%) and group RRSPs (18%).

As part of this year's survey, researchers included questions about the adoption of AI in Canadian organizations. Nearly three-quarters (74%) of surveyed companies are either actively exploring or seriously considering AI solutions to boost operational efficiency in the upcoming year.

"In today's evolving job market, employees are seeking more than just competitive salaries," said Vice-President of Employer Solutions Consulting for Telus Health, Philip Mullen, in a recent statement.

"They're looking for employers who offer comprehensive support for their financial, physical and mental wellbeing. Organizations that partner with benefits administrators to create holistic packages — integrating retirement planning, investments and health services - are likely to see improved recruitment outcomes, higher retention rates and enhanced productivity."

Survey methodology

The annual Telus Health Salary Projection Survey is based on data gathered in July and August 2024. It is based on data from over 355 Canadian organizations across various industries. This year's report covers actual salary budget increases in 2024, projections for 2025 and details on how respondents are navigating these challenges.

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Nicholas Sokic Contributor

Nicholas completed his master's in journalism and communications at Western University. Since then, he's worked as a reporter at the Financial Post, Healthing.ca, Sustainable Biz Canada and more. Aside from reporting, he also has experience in web production, social media management, photography and video production. His work can also be found in the Toronto Star, Yahoo Finance Canada, Electric Autonomy Canada and Exclaim among others.

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