Average Salary in British Columbia

Introduction

British Columbia is located on the west coast of Canada and is known for its natural beauty and diverse economy. Major industries in the province include forestry, mining, natural gas, technology, tourism, film and T.V. production, agriculture, and manufacturing.

With a robust job market across various sectors, British Columbia offers competitive salaries for workers. However, the cost of living, especially housing, is quite high compared to other parts of Canada.

This article will explore the average salary in British Columbia and delve into the salaries of top professionals and employers. We’ll also look at how location, experience, education, gender, and other factors impact pay. Read on for a comprehensive overview of salaries in beautiful B.C.

What Is Average Salary in British Columbia?

According to Statistics Canada, the average weekly wage rate for employees in British Columbia was $1,265.38 CAD in 2023.

This equates to an average annual salary of $65,800 for full-time employees in B.C., assuming 52 paid weeks per year. On a monthly basis, the average salary works out to $5,483.

Compared to the national average, British Columbians enjoy slightly higher pay. Across Canada, the average weekly wage rate was $1,232.22 in 2023.

British Columbia’s above-average wages likely stem from its thriving technology sector concentrated in Vancouver, along with high-paying natural resources jobs. Professionals in fields like engineering, business, healthcare, and finance also lift overall incomes.

When looking at median salary in B.C. instead of averages, the province also bests national figures. The median weekly wage in B.C. hit $1,119.30 in 2023, while the Canadian median was $1,078.35. Median wages represent the midpoint of the income distribution – half of workers earn more and half earn less. Medians are less influenced by extremely high or low earners.

The province’s median salary of around $58,200 annually confirms that typical British Columbians outpace most other Canadians in earnings. The strength of B.C.’s job market and diversity of high-paying sectors sustain these above-average salaries.

Which Cities in British Columbia Have The Highest Average Salaries?

While the average provincial salary is just around $65,800, salaries in British Columbia’s major urban centers tend to be significantly higher thanks to abundant job opportunities and high-paying industries.

Below is an overview of the top paying cities in B.C. and why salaries are elevated:

Vancouver ~ $75,000

As the largest city in the province, Vancouver offers a breadth of lucrative professions. Major industries like technology, finance, corporate management, film/T.V. production, tourism, and port logistics drive higher wages. Vancouver also attracts educated, ambitious professionals from across Canada and worldwide.

Sparwood ~ $80,000 (influenced by mining)

This small town in the Elk Valley region has high salaries thanks to proximity to coal mining operations, the area’s dominant industry. Teck Resources’ five steelmaking coal mines provide direct and supporting jobs with incomes well above provincial averages.

Burnaby ~ $70,000

Located adjacent to Vancouver, Burnaby serves as a hub for high-tech firms and startups. Major employers include E.A., Amazon, Telus, Nokia, and Huawei. These technology jobs boost average incomes for residents.

Surrey ~ $65,000

As a major suburb of Vancouver, Surrey benefits from proximity to the city’s strong job market. Many residents work in high-paying professions in downtown Vancouver. Surrey also has industrial and port facilities along the Fraser River.

Elkford ~ $75,000

Like Sparwood, this small community in southeast B.C. sees elevated salaries thanks to coal mining. Teck Resources operates several mines nearby and directly employs over 1,000 residents.

Victoria ~ $70,000

As the provincial capital and second largest metro area, Victoria offers a range of public sector jobs and professional services careers that drive higher average incomes. The city’s port and tourism sector also contribute to wages above B.C. medians.

Princeton ~ $60,000

This small town in B.C.’s interior has copper and coal mines operated by Copper Mountain Mining Corporation, boosting wages. The mines are the dominant employer, both directly and indirectly.

Fort St. John ~ $85,000 (higher due to the resource sector)

This northern B.C. city sits amid major natural gas fields and shale plays like the Montney. Energy companies like Shell, ConocoPhillips, and Petronas have operations in the area, lifting wages significantly.

Kelowna ~ $70,000

With a diverse economy encompassing technology, construction, tourism, manufacturing, finance, food production, and more, Kelowna offers an abundance of high-paying jobs. The city attracts educated workers from across western Canada.

In summary, British Columbia’s major urban centers, especially those with technology, finance, natural resources, and government-related industries tend to offer the highest salaries in the province. These cities attract ambitious professionals seeking high-paying roles, which lifts the average incomes. However, even smaller communities near mines or energy projects can also boast wages exceeding provincial medians. Overall, B.C. residents can target locations that align with lucrative sectors to maximize their earning potential.

Which Jobs in British Columbia Have The Highest Average Salaries?

British Columbia offers lucrative career opportunities across various fields. According to government data, below are the top highest paying jobs in the province :

Specialist Physicians ~ $128.96/hour

Specialist physicians in British Columbia, such as dermatologists, radiologists, and anesthesiologists, earn approximately $260,000 per year on average. These doctors have advanced expertise in a particular field of medicine gained through extensive training. Shortages for some specializations also serve to boost incomes.

General Practitioners and Family Physicians ~ $85.97/hour

Family doctors and general practitioners in B.C. earn median salaries of $178,810 annually. Rural communities and remote areas frequently offer very high compensation, sometimes over $300,000, in order to attract physicians. An aging population and doctor shortages add to the demand.

Utilities Managers ~ $57.69/hour

Managers at utility companies in British Columbia like B.C. Hydro, FortisBC and municipal providers earn approximately $120,000 per year on average. The complex challenge of effectively overseeing critical infrastructure like electricity, natural gas, and water systems leads to strong compensation for experienced managers in this sector.

Nurse Practitioners ~ $57.00/hour

Nurse practitioners in B.C. have median salaries of $118,000 annually. Their advanced clinical training allows N.P.s to diagnose conditions, prescribe medication, and provide a wide range of care with significant autonomy. Strong demand contributes to the high pay.

Senior managers – financial, communications and other business services ~ $92.31/hour

Senior managers in finance, insurance, real estate, and professional services earn a median salary of $192,000 per year in British Columbia. These high-level executives manage organizations and corporate divisions, overseeing functions like marketing, operations, H.R., I.T., and more. Their extensive experience and leadership responsibilities drive top incomes that greatly exceed average wages.

Commissioned Police Officers ~ $59.73/hour

Commissioned police officers with the RCMP or municipal forces in British Columbia earn around $124,000 annually. After being promoted to senior roles such as Staff Sergeant, Inspector, or Superintendent, police officers command sizable salaries fitting of their complex duties. Their pay is enhanced by overtime, long-term tenure, and hazardous work.

Insurance Lawyers ~ $57.69/hour

Lawyers specialized in insurance law advise clients on maximizing coverage, recovering losses, and resolving disputes with insurers. Their in-depth expertise in a lucrative field allows top insurance lawyers in British Columbia to earn approximately $120,000 per year. Senior partners at major law firms earn significantly higher incomes.

Fire Chiefs and Senior Firefighting Officers ~ $62.27/hour

Experienced firefighters who ascend to management ranks as Fire Chief, Deputy Chief, Battalion Chief, or Captain earn annual salaries averaging $129,000. Overseeing emergency operations, budgets, training, and personnel warrants the higher pay for these senior firefighting officers.

Petroleum Engineers ~ $46.70/hour

Petroleum engineers design methods for extracting oil and gas, earning median pay of $97,000 per year in British Columbia. Those with specialized expertise in the unconventional oil & gas sector tend to be at the top of the pay scale thanks to high industry demand.

Physicists and Astronomers ~ $50.30/hour

Physicists and astronomers have median annual salaries of $104,000 in British Columbia. These scientists work in research and development, conducting experiments, operating instruments, and developing theories. Those employed in the province’s growing technology sector command the top pay.

Geoscientists and Oceanographers ~ $62.50/hour

Geoscientists and oceanographers earn $130,000 per year on average in British Columbia. Their expertise analyzing issues like climate change, natural resource management, and environmental protection is highly valued. Those working on impact assessments for major energy projects garner the highest incomes.

Specialists in Surgery ~ $171.57/hour

Specialist physicians practicing surgery in British Columbia, such as cardiothoracic surgeons and neurosurgeons, have some of the highest medical salaries at $356,859 annually. The lengthy training required and complexity of duties warrant substantial compensation.

In summary, British Columbia offers lucrative careers with salaries well above average across a variety of fields. Experienced managers, skilled tradespeople, technical specialists, legal and financial professionals, doctors, and engineers are among the top earning occupations. The advanced expertise, training, and leadership skills these roles require warrant substantial compensation significantly greater than median wages. Candidates who secure jobs in these high demand, high skill occupations can expect to earn annual salaries exceeding $100,000 and often approaching $200,000, elevating them to the top of British Columbia’s pay scale.

High Opportunity Occupations and Salaries in British Columbia

WorkBC has identified occupations in the province expected to have strong job openings, growth, and wages over the next 10 years. Below are some of the top high opportunity roles:

• Retail and Wholesale Trade Managers – $34.97/hour
  These managers will have around 30,040 job openings through 2033. Overseeing operations and staff at stores and commercial businesses warrants salaries significantly higher than provincial averages.
• Registered Nurses – $43.00/hour
  With an estimated 24,770 openings, registered nurses are in high demand across British Columbia. Their advanced skills and critical role providing patient care command incomes exceeding median wages.
• Nurse Aides, Orderlies, and Patient Service Associates – $25.00/hour
  Around 22,480 openings are expected for these crucial healthcare support roles. Demographic changes and aging populations are driving demand.
• Administrative Officers – $28.77/hour
  These professionals perform administrative and coordination duties in support of managers and professionals. Around 18,530 openings are forecasted in BC through 2033.
• Social and Community Service Workers – $25.00/hour
  An estimated 14,930 job openings are projected for these workers who help clients with issues like unemployment, poverty, mental health, and rehabilitation.
• Elementary School and Kindergarten Teachers – $37.00/hour
  Teacher shortages and increasing student enrollment will drive demand for 12,610 teachers over the next 10 years in British Columbia.
• Software Engineers and Designers – $53.84/hour
  These specialized I.T. professionals can expect 12,330 openings in B.C.’s thriving technology hub. Their niche skills command high pay.
• Early Childhood Educators and Assistants – $20.00/hour
  Around 12,310 openings are forecasted for these crucial roles in early education.
• Financial Auditors and Accountants – $37.33/hour
  These financial professionals can expect about 10,270 openings in BC through 2033 thanks to steady demand.
• Restaurant and Food Service Managers – $25.00/hour
  Overseeing dining establishments warrants paying above-median wages for these managers. An estimated 9,900 openings are expected.
• Software Developers and Programmers – $46.09/hour
  B.C.’s technology sector will create strong demand for 9,730 developers and programmers in the coming years.
• Information Systems Specialists – $42.00/hour
  The complex nature of managing computer systems and networks translates to high pay for these specialists. Some 9,370 openings are forecasted.
• Computer and Information Systems Managers – $59.62/hour
  Managing I.T. departments and technology strategy earns these managers well above average salaries. There will be 8,900 openings.
• Construction Managers – $44.71/hour
  Overseeing building projects keeps these 7,270 managers in high demand across various industries.
• Secondary School Teachers – $41.98/hour
  Like elementary teachers, about 7,010 secondary school teachers will be needed in British Columbia through 2033.

(source: https://www.workbc.ca/research-labour-market/high-opportunity-occupations)

In summary, British Columbia offers abundant opportunities in high-paying occupations over the next decade ranging from skilled trades to management roles. As the data illustrates, positions in healthcare, education, technology, construction, and hospitality are all expected to see strong demand and above-median wages. Candidates with the right mix of qualifications and experience can pursue rewarding careers in these fast-growing fields. The outlook underscores British Columbia’s diverse economy and wealth of options to build a prosperous future.

Why Salaries in British Columbia Exceed National Averages?

Several key factors contribute to British Columbia’s higher-than-average salaries across many occupations:

• Thriving Technology Sector – Vancouver has emerged as a major tech hub, attracting talent from across Canada and around the world. Major companies like Amazon, Microsoft, Sony, and Slack have offices in the city, along with thousands of startups. Highly skilled I.T. workers earn top pay.
• Natural Resources – British Columbia’s forestry, mining, oil/gas, and agriculture sectors provide high-paying jobs, especially in more rural areas. Natural resources drive the economy in many communities.
• Film/T.V. Production – Vancouver and British Columbia have become a major film/T.V. production center. Key studio hubs offer lucrative salaries to attract creative talent.
• Finance and Professional Services – As a major business center, high-paying careers in law, accounting, management consulting, and financial services abound, particularly in metro Vancouver.
• Healthcare – An aging population and nurse shortages allow healthcare professionals like doctors, nurses, and technologists to command top pay in B.C.
• Real Estate – Soaring housing costs have provided high incomes for realtors, brokers, and related occupations in property services.
• Tourism – B.C.’s scenic beauty and outdoor experiences drive a thriving tourism industry. Hospitality managers and specialized roles can earn more than national averages.
• In-Demand Skills – Occupations requiring extensive training and specialized expertise tend to pay more due to talent shortages. B.C. attracts these high-skill workers.

Overall, British Columbia’s diverse, thriving economy translates to abundant opportunities in well-compensated fields, allowing residents to earn higher incomes than the Canadian average.

Education Level and Salary in British Columbia

Statistics Canada data indicates clear correlations between higher levels of education and increased earnings in British Columbia:

Those with no high school diploma or equivalency certificate earned a average wage of $30,000 in 2020. Obtaining a high school diploma boosted wages to $38,800 annually.

Post-secondary education shows even greater impact on salaries. Workers with apprenticeship or trades certificates/diplomas made a average salary of $59,250. Those completing college diplomas saw average salary of $51,300.

University education demonstrated the highest incomes. British Columbians holding bachelor’s degrees had average salary of $64,900. Those with master’s degrees earned approximately $79,200, while doctoral degree holders made $96,700.

Engineers, nurses, accountants, and other professionals requiring a university degree or college diploma earn incomes above the provincial median. Skilled trades like electricians, plumbers, and machinists frequently surpass graduates of general arts and science programs thanks to strong demand.

The data clearly demonstrates the financial benefits of post-secondary education, especially bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. British Columbians able to pursue higher learning can gain skills that translate to substantially higher salaries.

(source: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/cv.action?pid=9810041101)

Impact of Gender on Salaries in British Columbia

A stubborn gender pay gap persists in British Columbia, mirroring disparities across Canada. Despite progress towards gender equity in some aspects of society, data shows women in B.C. continue to be paid less on average than men.

According to Statistics Canada, the overall average weekly wage rate in B.C. in 2023 was $1,265.38. However, a gender breakdown shows a considerable gap:

The gap is even more pronounced in certain industries:

On an annual basis, women in B.C. working full-time earn approximately 86.5 cents for every dollar earned by men. This wage gap persists across occupations and seniority levels.

The gender pay gap stems from systemic discrimination and unconscious bias in hiring, promotions, and compensation. Societal expectations around gender roles also influence career and education choices. Equity-promoting policies and legislation are essential to closing this gap.

Salary Growth Trends in British Columbia

Statistics Canada data shows steady growth in average weekly wage rates in British Columbia over the past two decades.

Looking at annual figures, the average weekly wage rate in B.C. has climbed from $668.48 in 2002 to $1,265.38 in 2023. This represents an increase of 89% over 22 years.

Below are the average weekly wage rates in B.C. from 2002 to 2023:

The data shows consistent wage growth exceeding inflation, demonstrating the strength of British Columbia’s economy and labour market over the past two decades. Higher-paying industries and occupations have expanded significantly during this period.

Comparison of British Columbia’s average salary to other provinces and the national average (in 2023):

In 2023, the average weekly wage rate across Canada was $1,232.22. British Columbia’s average weekly wage rate of $1,265.38 was slightly higher than the national figure. This positions B.C. with the 3th highest provincial average salary.

Below is a breakdown comparing British Columbia to other provinces:

• Alberta: $1,322.57
• Ontario: $1,278.16
• British Columbia: $1,265.38
• Newfoundland and Labrador: $1,218.75

So British Columbia’s average weekly wage exceeds the national rate as well as most other provinces. B.C.’s thriving industries, skilled workforce, and urban hubs help drive salaries higher than Canadian medians.

Conclusion

While British Columbia’s average salary hovers around $65,800 annually, salaries vary significantly across occupations and locations. Major urban centres, experienced professionals, university graduates, and in-demand sectors offer the greatest earning potential.

However, the province’s high cost of living, especially housing, erodes some of those higher wages. British Columbians must carefully consider positions, industries, education, and places of residence to maximize their salaries.

With a diverse, growing economy and abundance of natural beauty, British Columbia remains an alluring destination for new residents and workers from across Canada and worldwide. This article provided a detailed examination of typical earnings to help job seekers make informed decisions.

Average salary varies across Canada based on regional economic conditions. If you’re interested in salaries in other major provinces, be sure to check out our articles on Average Salary in Canada for a national overview, along with details on:

• Average Salary in Ontario
• Average Salary in Alberta
• Average Salary in Quebec
• Average Salary in Saskatchewan
• Average Salary in Manitoba
• Average Salary in New Brunswick
• Average Salary in Nova Scotia
• Average Salary in Prince Edward Island
• Average Salary in Newfoundland and Labrador

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FAQs about average salaries in British Columbia:

Q: What are the highest paying jobs in Vancouver?

A: Some of the highest paying jobs in Vancouver are specialist physicians, corporate executives, engineering managers, lawyers, software developers, and finance managers.

Q: Where are the highest salaries in British Columbia found?

A: The metro Vancouver region has the highest salaries in B.C., along with other major urban centers like Victoria, Kelowna, Abbotsford, and Nanaimo. Rural and northern areas tend to have lower averages.

Q: Why does B.C. have higher average wages than most other provinces?

A: B.C. has higher wages due to a thriving tech sector in Vancouver, high salaries in natural resources, a strong film/T.V. industry, and an abundance of finance, legal, and healthcare jobs that pay well over Canadian medians.

Q: When did British Columbia overtake the national average wage?

A: B.C. surpassed the Canadian average weekly wage in the mid-2000s.

Q: Do all industries pay the same in British Columbia?

A: No, there is significant variance. Utilities, professional services, healthcare, and finance tend to have the highest salaries while tourism and retail are lower.

Q: Can you afford to live comfortably on the average B.C. wage?

A: It depends on your location, household size, and expenses. The average wage provides a moderate standard of living, but high housing costs in cities can make it more difficult.

Q: Is wage growth keeping up with inflation in British Columbia?

A: Yes, wage growth has exceeded inflation over the past decade. But inflation-adjusted "real" wage growth has been slower.

Q: How does Vancouver compare to other tech hubs for software developer salaries?

A: Vancouver offers competitive tech salaries but lags behind major US hubs. The average software developer makes around $76,000-$88,000 in Vancouver.

Q: Do teachers make more in British Columbia than other provinces?

A: Yes, teachers earn more in B.C. than Canadian averages, with starting wages around $50,000/year and senior teachers earning over $80,000/year.

Q: Are registered nurse salaries higher in British Columbia due to shortages?

A: Yes, R.N. wages in B.C. are among the highest in Canada, averaging around $80,000/year, partly due to high demand.

Q: Do engineers earn more in Alberta than in British Columbia?

A: Yes, Alberta's oil and gas industry pushes engineering wages around 15% higher than British Columbia on average.

Q: Which region of British Columbia has the lowest average salary?

A: The Cariboo region in B.C.'s interior has the lowest weekly wage at $992/week, over $250 less than the provincial average.

Q: How has global migration impacted average wages in Vancouver?

A: Vancouver's rapid population and labor force growth from immigration has kept wages lower than they otherwise would have been.

Q: Do minimum wage workers skew the provincial wage averages?

A: No, minimum wage earners have little impact on the average which is more influenced by higher paying occupations.

Q: Is the gender wage gap narrowing in British Columbia?

A: The gender pay gap has improved slightly over the past decade but remains significant, with women earning around 87% of men's hourly pay.

Q: How can you increase your salary in British Columbia?

A: Further education, skill development, networking, seeking promotions, moving jobs strategically, and negotiating salaries can help maximize earning potential.