Minimum Wage in Vancouver, British Columbia: Comprehensive Guide

At present, the minimum wage in Vancouver, British Columbia, stands at CAD 16.75 per hour. This figure, which was last updated as of June 1, 2023, reflects the minimum wage set by the provincial government across the whole of British Columbia. As with other regulations, it is important to periodically check official sources for any changes in minimum wage.

While the minimum wage in British Columbia has consistently been one of the highest in Canada, it remains a subject of concern for many workers. The provincial government provides a clear and detailed breakdown of the minimum wage, which has been increasing over the years. The latest figures from the B.C. Government website Minimum Wage Factsheet offer a comprehensive view on how the minimum wage has evolved, particularly for various categories of workers.

Here's a look at the general minimum wage in British Columbia, which applies to all employees:

General Minimum Wage:

General Minimum Wage (Solid Line):

September 15, 2017 - CAD 11.35 per hour June 1, 2018 - CAD 12.65 per hour June 1, 2019 - CAD 13.85 per hour June 1, 2020 - CAD 14.60 per hour June 1, 2021 - CAD 15.20 per hour June 1, 2023 - CAD 16.75 per hour

As you can see, the minimum wage has significantly increased, reflecting the government's efforts to address economic conditions and support workers.

Liquor Servers:

The minimum wage for liquor servers has followed a different trajectory, particularly until June 1, 2020, when it began to align with the regular minimum wage. Here's the breakdown:

September 15, 2017 - CAD 10.10 per hour June 1, 2018 - CAD 11.40 per hour June 1, 2019 - CAD 12.70 per hour June 1, 2020 - CAD 13.95 per hour June 1, 2021 - CAD 15.20 per hour

This indicates that liquor servers initially received a higher minimum wage, which was gradually adjusted to bring it in line with the general minimum wage.

Live-in Camp Leaders:

The category of live-in camp leaders also has a unique calculation method:

September 15, 2017 - CAD 90.80 for each day or part day worked June 1, 2018 - CAD 101.24 for each day or part day worked June 1, 2019 - CAD 110.87 June 1, 2020 - CAD 116.86 June 1, 2021 - CAD 121.65

These figures reflect the specific needs and demands placed on live-in camp leaders, who are often provided with housing and require continuous supervision or support.

Live-in Home Support Workers:

Live-in home support workers are subject to a daily rate:

September 15, 2017 - CAD 113.50 per day or part day worked June 1, 2021 - CAD 15.20 per hour (aligned with general minimum wage)

This change in 2021 brought the live-in home support worker's rate in line with the general minimum wage, while earlier it was set at a higher rate.

Resident Caretakers:

Resident caretakers for apartment buildings also see a different calculation method depending on the number of suites:

Apartments Containing 9 to 60 Suites:

September 15, 2017 - CAD 681 per month plus CAD 27.29 for each suite June 1, 2018 - CAD 759.32 per month plus CAD 30.43 for each suite June 1, 2019 - CAD 831.45 per month plus CAD 33.32 for each suite June 1, 2020 - CAD 876.35 per month plus CAD 35.12 for each suite June 1, 2021 - CAD 912.28 per month plus CAD 35.56 for each suite

Apartments Containing More Than 60 Suites:

September 15, 2017 - CAD 2319.65 per month June 1, 2018 - CAD 2586.40 per month June 1, 2019 - CAD 2832.11 per month June 1, 2020 - CAD 2985.04 per month June 1, 2021 - CAD 3107.42 per month

These figures are higher due to the increased responsibility and continuous support needed for a larger number of residents.

Minimum Piece Rates - Hand Harvested Crops:

For workers involved in hand-harvested crops, piece rates are specified. These rates include vacation pay ranging from 4 to 8 percent, with the specific rate varying based on the crop type. For daffodils, a specific piece rate is mentioned, while other crops have rates that include vacation pay.

This section highlights the importance of piece rates for agricultural workers, ensuring they are compensated fairly for their manual labor.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always visit the official website of the B.C. Government related to minimum wage to ensure that you have the latest details and can make informed decisions about your employment or employment rights.

Note: The data provided in this article is accurate as of June 1, 2023, and may change. It is advisable to verify the latest figures from official sources.