A new report claims that a living wage in Lethbridge is $20 per hour. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

A ‘living wage’ in Lethbridge is $20/hour: report

Nov 18, 2024 | 5:00 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Jobs in Lethbridge need to pay at least $20 per hour to be considered providing a “living wage.”

That is according to a new report from the Alberta Living Wage Network (ALWN).

The group defines a living wage as the hourly rate of pay a worker needs to earn to cover their basic expenses and have a modest standard of living once government transfers have been added and taxes have been subtracted.

The calculations assume that each adult is working full-time hours and include savings for unexpected costs, continuing education, child care, and a small amount that allows people to participate in the community.

Lethbridge’s living wage is down by 60 cents per hour compared to last year’s ranking.

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United Way Lethbridge & South Western Alberta Executive Director Jaci Zalesak says this is good news for the community.

“What this means for our community is Lethbridge is becoming a more affordable place to live for workers and their families,” says Zalesak. “With living costs decreasing, Lethbridge is better positioned to attract and retain talent, fostering a stronger local economy and improving the quality of life for its residents. Continuing to support affordability measures will ensure our community remains a great place to live and work.”

As shown in the image below, Jasper had the highest living wage in Alberta for 2024 at $31.40 per hour.

Medicine Hat was the most affordable community at $17.55 per hour.

Living wages for several Alberta communities in 2024. (Photo: Alberta Living Wage Network)

The breakdown provided for Lethbridge gives some insights into how the numbers are calculated.

Some costs, like rent and groceries, became more expensive over the past year, others like childcare and electricity became more affordable.

The improving cost of childcare services has to do with increases in government subsidies, while several regulatory changes to electricity made it cheaper.

A breakdown of the calculations for Lethbridge’s 2024 living wage. (Photo: Alberta Living Wage Network)

Zalesak says Lethbridge has the highest number of certified living wage employers per capita in Alberta.

The full report can be found on the Alberta Living Wage Network.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

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