Though Alberta’s unemployment rate dropped slightly last month, it remained higher than the national number. Statistics Canada release its August 2026 Labour Force Survey on Friday, which showed Alberta’s jobless rate dipping to 6.8 per cent from seven per cent in July. Canada’s national unemployment rate was 6.4 per cent, unchanged from the month before. Looking at Alberta’s four largest cities, only one – Lethbridge – sat below the national rate. Red Deer’s unemployment rate was 7.6 per cent in August, compared to 7.3 per cent in July Edmonton was unchanged at 6.9 per cent, while Calgary saw meager movement, dipping to 6.7 per cent from 6.8 the month prior. “The broader story is that Calgary continues to lead major Canadian cities in year-over-year employment growth, driven by steady gains in full-time positions,” said Brad Parry, president and CEO of Calgary Economic Development. “Even as local employers navigate a shifting economic environment and population inflows, this data points to an adaptive labour market where businesses are continuing to invest in the talent needed for long-term growth.” Lethbridge’s jobless number was 5.6 per cent, unchanged from the month prior. The August 2026 Labour Force Survey was conducted the week of Aug. 9 to 15.
