A living wage is not the same as the minimum wage, which is the legal minimum all employers must pay. The living wage sets a higher test.

• The minimum wage is the same across the province. Living wage reflects what people need to earn to cover the actual costs of living in their community.
• The minimum wage is mandatory for many occupations. The living wage is a voluntary commitment of employers to go beyond the minimum standard and pay enough for employees to cover their expenses and participate in community.
• For years the minimum wage has been too low to lift even someone working full-time, full-year above the poverty line. The living wage is based on the principle that if you work full-time, full-year you should earn enough to make ends make and participate in your community.