London's unemployment rate fell for the second consecutive month in June, dropping to 6.2%, according to Statistics Canada data released Friday. The decline marks a continued improvement in the local labor market after a slight uptick earlier in the year.
Job Gains Across Sectors
The city added approximately 1,500 net new jobs in June, driven by gains in manufacturing, health care, and retail trade. The labor force participation rate remained steady at 65.4%, indicating that more people are entering or re-entering the workforce.
"We're seeing broad-based growth across several key industries," said a spokesperson for the London Economic Development Corporation. "This is a positive sign for the local economy and for job seekers."
Comparison to Provincial and National Rates
Ontario's unemployment rate stood at 6.8% in June, while the national rate was 6.4%. London's rate of 6.2% is below both the provincial and national averages, positioning the city favorably in the current economic landscape.
"London continues to outperform many other regions in Ontario," noted an economist at Western University. "The diversification of our economy is paying off."
Outlook for Remainder of 2026
Analysts expect the positive trend to continue, with several major infrastructure projects and expansions in the technology sector set to create additional jobs in the coming months. The city's unemployment rate is projected to fall further to around 5.8% by year-end.
