Québec, September 9, 2025. – Between 2014 and 2024, the pool of people aged 15 to 64 who are available to work decreased by nearly 234,000 to just over 387,000 in 2024. Compared to 2014, there were:
- 90,000 fewer unemployed people (actively looking for work)
- 109,000 fewer people working part time involuntarily (underemployed in terms of working hours)
- 35,000 fewer people wanting to work but not actively looking for a job (potential workforce)
These findings come from the publication Évolution du bassin de personnes disponibles pour travailler au Québec entre 2014 et 2024 released today by the Institut de la statistique du Québec.
Employment needs are better met than before
In 2024, in Québec, about 7% of people aged 15 to 64 were in the pool of people available to work, down from slightly less than 12% in 2014.
This shows that the employment needs of Quebecers are better met than before, as reflected by the significant growth in employment between 2014 and 2024. However, the decline in the pool of people available to work has resulted in a proportionally lower number of people to fill job vacancies, which can pose a challenge for businesses looking for applicants.
Rate of people with an unmet employment need, people aged 15 to 64, Québec, 2014 to 2024
Source
Statistics Canada, Labour Force Survey, Adapted by the Institut de la statistique du Québec.
Comparison with other provinces
By comparison, Québec has a slightly lower rate of people with an unmet employment need (about 6.9%) than the other three most populous provinces: Ontario (10%), Alberta (10%), and British Columbia (8.8%).
The Institut de la statistique du Québec produces, analyzes and disseminates official, objective and quality statistical information on various aspects of Québec society. It is responsible for conducting all statistical surveys of general interest. The relevance of its work makes it a strategic ally for decision makers and an essential source of information for all those wishing to learn more about Québec.