Nanaimo's unemployment rate dropped nearly a full percentage point, according to the latest monthly report from Statistics Canada. (Image Credit: Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Ian Holmes

making gains

While still high, Nanaimo’s unemployment rate drops again

Jul 10, 2026 | 1:00 PM

NANAIMO — After reaching nearly nine per cent in April, greater Nanaimo’s unemployment rate dipped for a third consecutive month, according to newly released Statistics Canada data.

The most recent federal employment report showed the Nanaimo area’s jobless rate was 7.4 per cent in June, a notable drop from 8.5 per cent in May, and 8.7 per cent in April.

The Nanaimo area’s employment rate (eligible workers) was 61.7 per cent in June, compared to 60.6 per cent in May.

Encompassing Cedar to Lantzville but excluding Gabriola Island, Nanaimo is still above the nationwide unemployment rate of 6.5 per cent (down 0.1 per cent) and B.C.’s jobless rate of 6.5 per cent (down from 6.8 per cent).

Among Canada’s 41 monitored larger urban markets, Nanaimo is tied with Red Deer, AB, for the eighth highest unemployment rate.

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In B.C., only Kelowna (9.3 per cent) and Abbotsford-Mission (8.3 per cent) have higher unemployment rates than the Harbour City.

The FIFA World Cup and an improved summer jobs market for young people (15- 24-year-olds) appeared to thrust job growth forward in June.

In June, the youth unemployment rate fell 0.7 per cent to 12.7 per cent across Canada, with B.C. seeing the largest increase in jobs for young workers.

Canadian Chamber of Commerce principal economist Andrew DiCapua stated the labour market appears to be stabilizing after a difficult start to the year, where more than 100,000 jobs were lost in the first four months.

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by Ian Holmes

While still high, Nanaimo’s unemployment rate drops again

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