Construction and Maintenance Looking Forward 2026-2035

Canada’s Construction Labour Market Outlook

BuildForce Canada’s Construction and Maintenance Looking Forward reports provide a comprehensive assessment of labour market conditions across Canada’s residential and non-residential construction sectors.

Covering the period from 2026 to 2035, these reports examine construction investment, employment, workforce demographics, labour supply, retirement trends, and hiring requirements across every province of Canada.

The latest outlook highlights an industry that continues to play a critical role in Canada’s economy, employing more than 1.6 million people and contributing approximately 7% of Canada’s GDP. While construction activity is expected to remain strong over the next decade, workforce challenges—including retirements, recruitment pressures, and changing demographic trends—will require ongoing attention from industry, governments, educators, and workforce partners.

Non-Residential Construction

Non-residential construction is projected to remain at historically strong levels over the next decade, supported by major infrastructure, utility, industrial, institutional, and commercial projects across Canada. Activity is expected to rise through 2029 before easing as projects move through peak construction periods and reach completion. Continued growth in non-residential maintenance activity will help sustain workforce demand throughout the forecast period.

  • Investment is expected to grow through 2029, driven by major project activity.
  • Engineering construction and industrial, commercial, and institutional buildings remain key sources of demand.
  • Employment is projected to remain above 2025 levels through 2035.
  • Labour market pressures are expected to persist in many regions.

As major projects advance and new investments emerge, maintaining a strong and sustainable workforce will remain critical to meeting Canada’s construction needs.

Residential Construction

Residential construction enters the forecast period following several years of elevated activity driven by strong housing demand and population growth. While investment is expected to moderate in the near term, growth is forecast to return later in the decade, supported by ongoing demand for new housing and residential renovations. Long-term housing requirements will continue to shape construction activity and workforce needs across the country.

  • Investment is expected to soften through 2028 before returning to growth.
  • Residential renovations will continue to support employment demand.
  • Labour market conditions are expected to vary across provinces and regions.
  • Workforce renewal remains a key challenge as retirements continue.

As residential activity returns to growth, maintaining a strong and sustainable workforce will remain critical to meeting Canada’s housing needs and will continue to support skilled workforce needs across Canada.


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