The latest data from Statistics Canada shows the Calgary Region’s labour market improved in February, with the unemployment rate decreasing by 0.5 per cent to reach 8.0 per cent.
Employment in the Region increased by 15,100 jobs in February 2022 to 841,100 positions, compared to 826,000 in the previous month. Calgary’s labour force also grew last month, with 11,600 people joining the workforce.
“February saw the first period of notable improvements in Calgary’s labour market since October 2021. Calgary saw growth in both employment and its labour force; however, all that positive momentum was driven by continued increases in part-time jobs,” said Dexter Lam, Senior Manager, Talent, Calgary Economic Development.
Alberta saw an increase of 8,200 jobs in February, driving the unemployment rate down to 6.8 per cent. The national jobless rate decreased by 1.0 per cent to settle at 5.5 per cent, compared with 6.5 per cent in January.
In Calgary, the Wholesale & Retail Trade and Information, Culture & Recreation sectors saw the strongest gains last month, with 5,200 and 4,400 jobs added, respectively. The Business, Building & Other Support Services sector experienced the most losses last month, with 2,100 jobs lost in February.
“The improvements in front-line service-services occurred before the lifting of COVID-19 related restrictions,” Lam said. “Our focus can likely start shifting from pandemic recovery back to structural and longer-term transitions that will support Calgary’s future economy.”
The Labour Force Survey reflects conditions of the week of February 13th to 19th, 2022.