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By Liam Verster

6.5% Unemployed

Labour force recovered somewhat in February

Mar 13, 2026 | 3:56 PM

The local labour force made some gains in February.

Statistics Canada said in its monthly Labour Force Survey that the Thompson-Okanagan economic region, which includes Vernon, had an unadjusted unemployment rate of 6.5 per cent in the most recent reporting month.

That was an improvement from January when unemployment was 6.8 per cent, up from February 2025’s rate of 5.7 per cent. Kelowna meanwhile, had an adjusted unemployment rate of 6.3 per cent, compared to January’s rate of 6.8 per cent.

StatsCan said B.C’s unemployment stayed flat at 6.1 per cent in February.

The provincial government did note though that B.C’s unemployment rate was below the national average of 6.7 per cent, and the fourth lowest amongst provinces after Saskatchewan (5.6), Manitoba (5.7), and Quebec (5.9). Those three provinces also saw unemployment rise on a monthly basis in February.

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“Economic instability caused by U.S. President Donald Trump continues to impact economies around the world. Here in British Columbia, we continue to do everything we everything possible to strengthen, diversify and grow our economy,” Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth, said in a release.

“The [Labour Force Survey] showed an increase of 7,200 jobs in accommodation and food services, which is a good sign for small businesses, in addition to 5,300 new jobs in professional, scientific and technical services, as well as 2,000 jobs in agriculture,” Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth, said in a release.

“While overall numbers show a loss of 20,200 jobs this month in BC, significant job losses were felt across Canada and the U.S. in February.

“Since this time last year B.C. has gained 6,500 private-sector jobs, second highest growth in Canada, and 10,400 jobs in construction.”