What is a living wage?

The Alberta Living Wage Network has developed a standard methodology for calculating living wages across the province.

A living wage is the hourly wage a worker needs to earn to cover their basic expenses and participate in their community.

Note that the following living wage rates do not include extras such as benefits, perks, and paid time off (above the legislated minimum). An employer is eligible for certification if the base pay plus the value of extras is equal to or greater than the listed rate for their community. 

2023 Calculations

• Brooks: $19.05 

• Calgary: $23.70 

• Canmore: $38.80 

• Drayton Valley: $19.55 

• Edmonton: $22.25 

• Fort McMurray: $24.50 

• Grande Prairie: $18.90 

• High River: $21.70 

• Jasper: $24.90 

• Lac La Biche County: $21.60 

• Lethbridge: $20.60 

• Medicine Hat: $17.35 

• Red Deer: $18.75 

• Spruce Grove: $21.00 

• St. Albert: $23.80 

• Stony Plain: $21.10 

For more information, check out detailed calculations by municipality.

*calculations as of November 8, 2023. The 2022 calculations were valid from November 14, 2022 – November 7, 2023.