“Alberta is a national economic leader. Today’s employment numbers demonstrate the results of policies that attract investment, support businesses and create jobs.

“While Canada lost 68,000 jobs last month, Alberta stood apart as a land of opportunity, adding almost 26,000 full-time jobs in our province. Unemployment dropped below the national average, and the youth unemployment rate fell by 2.8 per cent, reaching its lowest level in almost three years.

“These are not accidental statistics – they are the result of deliberate, business-friendly policies brought in by this government that welcome investment and facilitate growth.

“Since Danielle Smith was elected as Premier, Alberta has gained more than 300,000 jobs – an increase of 13 per cent, and one of the largest in the country. Behind every job added is a person better able to provide for themselves and their family. Our government has always seen strong families as an essential part of building a stronger Alberta, and these employment gains are one way in which we are doing just that.

“Alberta is a province to be proud of – we punch above our weight. Despite making up just 12 per cent of Canada’s population, we are creating jobs faster than any other major province and we are projected to lead economic growth almost three times faster than the national average.

“Alberta is not waiting for opportunity to come to us. We are creating it. We are bringing investment into our province, helping businesses grow and putting more Albertans to work. That is the Alberta Advantage in action, and we are not slowing down anytime soon.

“Our government will keep on building Alberta and attracting investment that strengthens our economy. A strong Canada needs a strong Alberta, and that’s exactly what we are building.”

Quick facts

  • From August to September 2026, Alberta gained 23,100 jobs – the biggest gain in the country. This includes a gain of 25,800 full-time jobs and a loss of 2,700 part-time jobs.
  • Alberta’s unemployment rate fell from 6.8 per cent to 6.4 per cent, now below the national average of 6.5 per cent.
  • The youth unemployment rate fell by 2.8 per cent from August to September 2026, now sitting at 12.5 per cent.
    • This is Alberta’s lowest youth unemployment rate since October 2023.
    • This is 0.5 per cent lower than Canada’s national average of 13 per cent.
    • From August to September 2026, six of 10 provinces saw an increased youth unemployment rate.