In early October 2023, it is expected that the minimum wage in the province of Ontario will increase, benefiting over a million individuals. This increase in income has garnered considerable attention and appreciation, although some believe its impact on daily life may be limited.
Starting from October, those who receive the provincial minimum wage will earn $16.55 per hour, marking an increase from the current hourly rate of $15.50, signifying a 6.8% raise. Furthermore, students under 18 years old working 28 hours or less per week will also witness an increase in their special minimum wage, going from $14.60 to $15.60 per hour. Additionally, the wages of remote workers will rise from $17.05 to $18.20 per hour.
Many individuals hold the belief that the minimum wage in Ontario is insufficient to sustain a comfortable life in high-cost cities like Toronto. In Toronto, the average rent is approximately $2,898, continuing to rise. Renting a one-bedroom apartment costs around $2,620, and renting a single room in a shared house with other tenants is about $1,302. Analyses indicate that to live comfortably in Toronto, one would need a minimum wage that is more than double the current rate.
Therefore, while the increase in the minimum wage in Ontario is indeed a welcome improvement, it is still deemed inadequate for covering the cost of living in expensive cities like Toronto.

 News Sources