Calgary’s living wage nearly $10 higher than minimum wage, advocates claim

Advocates are sounding the alarm about Calgary’s living wage.

In a recent news release, Vibrant Communities Calgary (VCC) and the Alberta Living Wage Network (ALWN) claim that the city’s living wage in 2024 sits at $24.45 per hour—approximately 63 per cent higher than the province’s minimum wage.

“This year’s living wage demonstrates the impact of government policies on affordability,” VCC Executive Director Meaghon Reid said in the release.

“The increased childcare affordability grant and lower regulated electricity rates have contributed to a more affordable cost of living. However, the increased cost of housing and food has left many hard-working Calgarians skipping meals or living in overcrowded, unsafe conditions. Albertans deserve more, and the time to act is now.”

Reid believes incrementally increasing minimum wage—potentially indexing it to food and shelter—may alleviate “economic shocks” from driving Calgary’s living wage up faster.

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Key takeaways

• The general minimum wage in Alberta is currently $15.00 per hour. The rate has remained unchanged since October 1, 2018.
• Employers in Alberta can’t make substantial changes to a non-unionized worker’s job (i.e. wages) without their consent.
• If you are fired from a minimum wage job in Alberta, you might be owed severance pay.
• Severance in the province can be as much as 24 months’ pay—depending on age, length of service, position at the company, and other factors.
• In addition to salary, severance may cover bonuses, commissions, and other compensation.
• You have up to two years from the date of your termination to pursue full severance pay—regardless of any employer-imposed deadlines, which aren’t legally enforceable.
• In Alberta, non-unionized workers don’t get a severance package when they resign voluntarily.
• If you’re unsure of the rights you have in a certain situation, our firm’s Pocket Employment Lawyer can provide peace of mind.

WATCH: Employment lawyer Lior Samfiru explains what employees shouldn’t do before seeking legal counsel on an episode of the Employment Law Show.

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Disclaimer: The materials provided in this article are for general informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, please consult a legal representative at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.