June 12, 2025 | British Columbia

Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) are vital contributors to society, helping to shape the emotional, social, and intellectual development of young children during their most formative years. As demand for quality early learning programs continues to rise across Canada, so does the need for trained, certified educators. For those considering this impactful career path, one of the most common questions is: how much do early childhood educators make in Canada? 
 

This article explores national and regional wage trends, job outlooks, and how aspiring professionals can get started through accredited training programs like the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Certificate Program at CDI College. 
 

National Overview of ECE Wages 
 

As of December 2024, Early Childhood Education Workers (classified under NOC 42202) in Canada earn: 

• Low wage: $16.00/hour 
• Median wage: $21.30/hour 
• High wage: $29.05/hour 
   

These wages reflect positions in licensed childcare centers, preschools, early learning programs, and other educational settings. Entry-level professionals usually start at the lower end of the scale, while experienced educators, administrators, or those with specializations can reach a higher level. 
 

Provincial and Territorial Wage Breakdown 
 

Salaries for early childhood educators vary across provinces and territories: 
 

Western Canada 
 

• British Columbia: $18.00–$29.00/hour (Median: $22.00) 
• Alberta: $15.00–$27.50/hour (Median: $19.00) 
• Manitoba: $15.80–$26.50/hour (Median: $17.17) 
• Saskatchewan: $15.00–$25.00/hour (Median: $17.00) 
   

Central Canada 

• Ontario: $17.20–$28.58/hour (Median: $21.00) 
• Quebec: $17.00–$30.00/hour (Median: $24.00) 
   

Atlantic Canada 

• Nova Scotia: $15.70–$24.13/hour (Median: $18.50) 
• New Brunswick: $15.65–$24.97/hour (Median: $20.00) 
• Prince Edward Island: $16.00–$25.00/hour (Median: $19.00) 
• Newfoundland and Labrador: $16.00–$24.80/hour (Median: $17.00) 
   

Northern Canada 

• Northwest Territories: $21.00–$33.76/hour (Median: $25.95) 
• Nunavut: $19.00–$38.00/hour (Median: $25.50) 
• Yukon: $20.50–$31.50/hour (Median: $28.00) 

ECEs in the northern territories tend to receive the highest compensation, often due to remote location incentives and staffing shortages. 

ECE Job Outlook: Now and Into the Future 
 

The employment outlook for early childhood educators is very promising across Canada. According to the latest projections (2025–2027): 
 

• Very Good Job Prospects: Alberta, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Yukon 
   
• Good Job Prospects: BC, Ontario, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Saskatchewan 
   
• Moderate Prospects: Quebec, Northwest Territories, Nunavut 

 
Over the 2024–2033 period, the Canadian Occupational Projections System anticipates a strong risk of labor shortage for early childhood educators. With 26% of current ECEs aged 50 and above and a median retirement age of 64, the industry is on track for significant turnover, creating opportunities for new graduates. 

Factors That Influence ECE Salaries 
 

Several elements affect how much an ECE earns: 
 

• Education & Certification – Certified educators typically earn more than assistants or aides. 
   
• Experience – Years in the field can lead to supervisory or specialized roles with higher pay. 
   
• Employment Setting – Public sector or unionized childcare centers often offer better wages and benefits. 
   
• Geographic Location – Urban centers and remote northern areas typically pay more due to demand and cost of living. 
   
• Additional Skills – Specializations in inclusive education, infant/toddler care, or administration can enhance earning potential. 

Beyond Wages: Non-Monetary Benefits 
 

A career in early childhood education often comes with a range of non-wage benefits, including: 
 

• Health and dental coverage 
• Paid holidays and sick leave 
• Retirement contributions or pensions 
• Childcare discounts for staff 
• Professional development support 
   

These added benefits contribute to long-term job satisfaction and overall compensation value. 

How to Become an ECE: Start with CDI College 
 

For individuals looking to enter this rewarding field, CDI College’s Early Childhood Education Certificate Program offers a trusted and fast-track pathway to certification and employment. 
 

Why Choose CDI College? 
 

✅ 410+ Hours of Real-World Practicum 

The program includes four practicums, giving students over 410 hours of hands-on experience in licensed daycare and early learning settings essential for applying theory in practice and building job-ready skills. 
 

✅ Graduate in Under a Year 

The 44-week fast-track program is ideal for those looking to start their careers quickly. Students can transition from training to employment in less than a year. 
 

✅ Industry-Experienced Instructors 

Students learn from seasoned professionals with real-world experience in early childhood education, ensuring that graduates are prepared to meet industry demands. 
 

✅ First Aid & CPR Certification 

As part of the program, students can also earn their Emergency Child Care First Aid & CPR/AED Level B certification—an essential credential for childcare workers. 
 

✅ ECE Registry Certification 

CDI College’s program is approved by the ECE Registry of British Columbia and the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training. Graduates meet the academic requirements necessary to apply for provincial certification as an Early Childhood Educator. 

Final Thoughts 
 

So, how much do early childhood educators make in Canada? While the answer varies depending on location and experience, the broader takeaway is clear: this is a growing, in-demand field with strong wages, excellent job prospects, and meaningful work. 

Whether you’re driven by the opportunity to make a difference in children’s lives or looking for a stable, rewarding career path, becoming an ECE is a smart and fulfilling choice. And with programs like the Early Childhood Education Certificate at CDI College, you can begin your journey with confidence, industry support, and real-world experience. 

Interested in making a difference? 
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Start your ECE journey with CDI College today and be a part of Canada’s next generation of educators.