Statistical insights from ‘Labour Market Trends, May 2025’

The following statistics were shared by the Economics and Statistics Division on Friday, June 6, 2025. Click here for full details from this dataset.

Insights from ‘Labour Market Trends, May 2025’ indicate that the demand for skilled and entry-level labour is intensifying in construction, underscoring the urgency to attract and retain new workers in our industry.

Construction Sector on the Rise —
  • Employment growth: Construction jobs showed strong monthly gains in May 2025 (+1.6%) — second only to wholesale/retail and accommodation/food services.
  • 12‑month trend: Over the past year, construction has been one of the top-performing industries in terms of job growth (+2.2%).
Employment Rates by Age —
  • Youth employment surge: Ages 15–24 saw employment jump by +8.3% between April and May, with the youth unemployment rate fell to 11.7%
  • Prime-age workers: Ages 25–54 also posted gains (employment +1.5%; unemployment down to 5.7%).
  • Older demographics: Workers 55+ had modest employment increases (+0.3%) while labour force participation dipped slightly.
Regional Dynamics & Labour Participation —
  • Regional variations: Labour force and employment rose strongest in Cape Breton, North Shore, and Halifax; other regions like Annapolis Valley and Southern NS are lagging.
  • Unemployment disparities: Halifax has the lowest unemployment (5.6%) vs. 7.8% outside the CMA; participation rates are also significantly higher in Halifax.