Labour Force

The Okanagan enjoys a reputation of having a diversified labour pool with low turnover rates. The combination of these factors make Penticton an appealing location for all types of business ventures looking to attract new and skilled workers.

The Regional labour force is made up of more than 46,000 people and is a stable and productive one. Employers benefit from skilled long-term employees whose turnover rate is low while productivity remains high. Salary levels are compatible with the lifestyles of the BC Interior.

With expansion in the manufacturing and service industries, as well as the retirement sector, the greater Penticton population has continued to grow steadily to 43,300 and the surrounding area population within a 30-minute commute to about 85,000.

A Guide to the BC Economy and Labour Market PDF Download, produced by BC Stats, is a useful resource which provides an overview of the provincial economy and the characteristics of its workforce. It focuses on provincial industries with an emphasis on their human resource side. Wage rates paid in the Okanagan area for a wide range of occupations is compiled by Service Canada on an on-going basis and can be accessed at www.labourmarketinformation.ca.

Employment/Unemployment

Unemployment rates in the Okanagan Valley have fallen steadily in the past 10 years with significant decreases in the past several years, from 8.8 percent in 2003 to 5.5 percent in 2008 (annual average). Fruit picking and the summer tourism season are the primary factors which influence seasonal fluctuations in the unemployment rate.

Regional Unemployment Rate (Source: BC Stats (Jan 2009) )

Learn more about the Penticton Employment Sector and the work force Education Levels.

Questions? Contact Penticton Economic Development

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