Northwest British Columbia saw a notable slowdown in its labour market in 2025, according to a new report from the Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia. The annual BC Check-Up: Work report shows the region’s unemployment rate rose to 7.4 per cent in November, up from 5.2 per cent one year earlier.
The report found that 39,900 people were working in Northwest B.C. in November 2025, a decrease of more than 6,100 workers compared to the previous year. Most of the decline came from full-time employment, with part-time work also trending lower. As a result, the region’s employment rate dropped to 57.3 per cent.
Services-producing industries were hit hardest, shedding more than 8,000 jobs over the year. Nearly every sector saw losses, with the exception of accommodation and food services, which more than doubled employment. CPABC says the slowdown is partly tied to major construction projects finishing, reducing demand for supporting services.
In contrast, the goods-producing sector added more than 2,000 jobs, driven by growth in construction and manufacturing. Natural resource employment declined during the same period.
CPABC notes there remains strong interest in continued development in Northwest B.C., with multiple major projects under federal review. The organization emphasizes that future investments must consider environmental impacts and provide long-term benefits for local communities and First Nations.
Comments