Statistics Canada has reported an improvement in the unemployment rate in Lethbridge for October 2023. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Lethbridge unemployment rate improves to five per cent in October

Nov 3, 2023 | 11:10 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The job market in Lethbridge fared a bit better than elsewhere in Alberta last month.

Statistics Canada has released its latest labour force statistics report for October 2023.

For the Lethbridge Census Metropolitan Area (CMA), which includes some immediately surrounding communities, the agency reports that the unemployment rate decreased from 5.6 per cent in September to five per cent in October.

It also marks an improvement from 5.9 per cent during the same time last year.

Over the last month, the agency reports that an additional 2,900 people found jobs in the Lethbridge CMA.

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

Apr 17, 2025

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

The jobless figure for Alberta as a whole was 5.8 per cent in October, up 0.1 per cent from the month before. That number includes unemployment rates of 5.9 per cent in Calgary and six per cent in Edmonton.

The province saw an additional 37,700 people obtain jobs, including 31,500 who found themselves in full-time positions. This represents nearly a full rebound from the month prior when Alberta lost 38,000 jobs in September.

READ MORE: Alberta lost 38,000 jobs in September: Statistics Canada

The largest increases in employment in Alberta for October were found in wholesale and retail trade (+12,500), construction (+5,600), and manufacturing (+4,700).

On the other hand, job losses were experienced in sectors such as professional, scientific and technical services (-3,700), as well as healthcare and social assistance (-2,800).

The full Labour Force Survey report can be found on the Statistics Canada website.

Lethbridge historically has the lowest or one of the lowest unemployment rates in Alberta. (Photo: Government of Alberta)

READ MORE: Canada’s jobless rate rises to 5.7%, fuelling bets Bank of Canada rate hikes are done

—

If you have a news tip, question or concern, please email Lethbridge.newsroom@Pattisonmedia.com.