Thompson-Okanagan's Unemployment Insights
In a recent analysis released by the Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia (CPABC), significant changes have been observed in the unemployment rate across the Thompson-Okanagan region. The unemployment rate has surged to 8.1% as of November, marking a noticeable rise of 3.8 percentage points from the previous year.
Karen Christiansen, a recognized figure in the industry, pointed out that this sharp increase in unemployment coincided with a swelling labour force. Interestingly, this growth in the workforce occurred despite a noted slowdown in population growth, indicating a unique dynamic at play within the region’s major urban centers.
Regional Employment Statistics
In Greater Kelowna, the unemployment rate has reached 11.0%, reflecting a staggering increase of 5.9 percentage points year-over-year. Similarly, Greater Kamloops has seen its unemployment rate rise from 3.2% to 8.8%. In contrast, regions outside of these primary cities show a more stable unemployment rate of 4.4%, which has remained relatively unchanged over the year.
The report reveals that the overall labour force participation rate has jumped by 5.7 percentage points, now sitting at 63.2%. This increase suggests a growing willingness among residents to seek employment, leading to more individuals available for work, a positive sign amid challenging job conditions for many still searching for opportunities.
Workforce Growth in Thompson-Okanagan
The workforce in the Thompson-Okanagan has expanded, with approximately 320,600 residents employed as of November, indicating a 6.4% increase compared to the previous year. This growth is exclusively attributed to full-time positions, which saw an increase of 19,200 jobs (+8.3%). Notably, the number of part-time jobs has remained stable, contributing to a more robust full-time employment landscape.
While there has been an uptick in employment compared to last year, the data reveals a modest overall growth of 2.7% since November two years prior, which trails behind the working-age population increase of 5.8%, emphasizing potential concerns regarding employment opportunities versus population growth.
Tenure and Industry Trends
According to Christiansen, although 2025 has seen positive employment growth, the previous three years reveal a more tempered trend. The services sector has emerged as the primary growth area, adding 25,800 jobs (+11.4%) during the annual period studied. This surge in employment within services highlights a shift towards areas like retail, hospitality, and other consumer-focused industries.
However, not all sectors enjoyed similar success. The goods-producing sector saw a decline of 6,800 jobs (-9.1%), with construction and manufacturing experiencing slight decreases and natural resources facing a reduction of 4,300 jobs. Despite these challenges, agriculture rebounded from a tough previous harvest, gaining 1,700 workers (+77.3%) compared to last year, although it still falls short of the levels from November 2023.
Looking Ahead: Economic Stability and Challenges
Christiansen emphasized that the ongoing trade disputes with the United States have introduced both obstacles and opportunities, significantly affecting various industries across the region. A resolution to these disputes could provide much-needed stability for local businesses, but it is equally essential for the area to explore strategies to diversify and strengthen its economy. This adaptability is crucial for fostering long-term resilience and sustainability.
As the Thompson-Okanagan navigates these labour market fluctuations, the insights provided by CPABC serve as a valuable resource for understanding the evolving landscape and the factors influencing employment in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current unemployment rate in Thompson-Okanagan?
The current unemployment rate in Thompson-Okanagan is 8.1% as of November.
How has the labour force participation rate changed?
The labour force participation rate has increased by 5.7 percentage points, reaching 63.2% in November.
What sectors are experiencing job growth?
The services sector has seen significant job growth, adding 25,800 jobs from November 2024 to November 2025.
What challenges does the local economy face?
The local economy faces challenges such as trade disputes and the need for diversification to maintain stability.
How does full-time employment compare to part-time employment?
Full-time employment has increased significantly, while the number of part-time workers has remained unchanged.
