The Yukon is the smallest and westernmost of the 3 territories in Canada. It has the lowest population density in Canada with roughly 36,000 people residing in the territory. The capital of the Yukon is Whitehorse, which is also the only city in the Yukon. Around 75% of the population resides in Whitehorse. The Yukon has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country.
The Yukon is a beautiful territory with untouched wilderness and abundant natural resources. It also has a small and extremely friendly community eager to welcome newcomers.
What Is Life Like for Immigrants in the Yukon?
The Yukon requires new immigrants due to its small population. Due to its rich natural resources, industries like mining are thriving in the territory and also provide the main source of employment for newcomers. Mostly, immigrants reside in the capital city of Whitehorse.
Currently, the immigrant population in the Yukon is 38,293, approximately 11% of the total population. Immigrants from the United Kingdom, Philippines, and the United States have resettled in the Yukon. The Yukon has a diverse community with 25% of the population being of First Nations descent (Indigenous Peoples).
What Is the Standard of Living in the Yukon?
While the cost of living in the Yukon is higher compared to other provinces in Canada, the average cost is considerably lower compared to other Northern provinces. However, the salaries offered in the territory are $45,000 on average, making it easier to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
The average family income in the Yukon exceeds $94,000. The cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $1,371. Immigrants in the Yukon can expect to live an active and peaceful lifestyle. Currently, the minimum wage in the territory is at $10.86/hour. In addition to that, the Yukon has no territorial sales tax.
How Is the Economy in the Yukon?
The Yukon’s economy largely depends on its natural resources with mining as the biggest industry in the territory. Along with that, there are lead, zinc, copper, silver, and gold industries as these minerals are present in abundance.
Apart from employment in natural resource industries, immigrants can work in business and administrative occupations. The government is a major source of employment for the Yukon’s population. However, the territory is slowly diversifying its economy by shifting focus on expanding travel and tourism. The unemployment rate in the territory is currently at 7%, however, it varies based on seasonal businesses.
