Job outlooks for Social workers

Discover the employment prospects for your dream job across Canada, or compare different occupations.

Occupation

social worker (41300)

Location

All regions across Canada

Did you know? You can visit the Open Government Portal to search through and download our Employment Outlooks data all in one place. There, you will find current and previous versions of our 3-Year Employment Outlooks reports for the periods of 2013-2015 to 2025-2027. View the dataset on the Open Government Portal.

These outlooks were updated on December 10, 2025.

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  • Newfoundland and LabradorGood

    The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in Newfoundland and Labrador for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Job opportunities in this profession are influenced by government funding and factors related to the general wellness of the population. Growing services for veterans and those with mental-health issues, alongside an aging population, are positive factors for the employment prospects for this occupation. Certain positions have highly irregular hours and may be physically demanding. High workload levels in some cases can raise the potential for burnout without the proper self-care. The Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Social Workers is the regulatory body and professional association for social work in this province. Registration with this association is necessary to obtain the designation of Registered Social Worker. This is required in order to use the title of social worker or practice within the social work profession in Newfoundland and Labrador.

    Here are some key facts about social workers in Newfoundland and Labrador:

    • Approximately 1,550 people work in this occupation.
    • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 37%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 26%
      • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 21%
      • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 7%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 95% compared to 83% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 5% compared to 17% for all occupations
    • 80% of social workers work all year, while 20% work only part of the year, compared to 56% and 43% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 46 weeks compared to 40 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of social workers are self-employed compared to an average of 8% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 13% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: 87% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 27% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: less than 5% compared to 23% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 74% compared to 14% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 23% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Avalon Peninsula Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Avalon Peninsula region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Avalon Peninsula region:

      • Approximately 990 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 37%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 26%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 22%

    • Notre Dame-Central-Bonavista Bay Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in the South Coast - Burin Peninsula and Notre Dame - Central Bonavista Bay regions for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the South Coast - Burin Peninsula and Notre Dame - Central Bonavista Bay regions:

      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 34%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 32%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 16%
        • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 15%

    • South Coast–Burin Peninsula Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in the South Coast - Burin Peninsula and Notre Dame - Central Bonavista Bay regions for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the South Coast - Burin Peninsula and Notre Dame - Central Bonavista Bay regions:

      • Approximately 240 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 34%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 32%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 16%
        • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 15%

    • West Coast–Northern Peninsula–Labrador Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in the West Coast - Northern Peninsula - Labrador region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the West Coast - Northern Peninsula - Labrador region:

      • Approximately 250 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 35%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 31%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 19%
        • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 11%

  • Prince Edward IslandGood

    The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in Prince Edward Island for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Social workers in Prince Edward Island continue to face strong demand and good employment prospects, with opportunities created by both employment growth and retirements. The province's aging population is increasing the need for palliative care, seniors' services, and mental health supports, while government investments in healthcare and community programs are sustaining demand. In 2025, the P.E.I. government reaffirmed funding for mental health and addictions services in its budget, alongside new grant programs to strengthen community wellbeing. Despite these supports, the sector is challenged by unfilled vacancies, high caseloads, and staff burnout, with many new graduates starting in child protection before moving into other areas of practice. Labour needs are closely tied to public funding, and recent reports highlight the importance of expanding the workforce to reduce wait times and improve access to services. For new graduates or career changers, this occupation offers stable employment, diverse career pathways, and opportunities to advance through higher education, though flexibility and resilience are essential given the pressures on the system. 

    Here are some key facts about social workers in Prince Edward Island:

    • Approximately 350 people work in this occupation.
    • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 51%
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 32%
      • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 7%
      • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 88% compared to 84% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 13% compared to 16% for all occupations
    • 75% of social workers work all year, while 25% work only part of the year, compared to 59% and 41% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 46 weeks compared to 41 weeks for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 13% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: 88% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: n/a
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: n/a
      • bachelor's degree: 43% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 54% compared to 8% for all occupations

  • Nova ScotiaGood

    The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in Nova Scotia for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Job opportunities in this profession are influenced by government funding and factors related to the general wellness of the population. Growing services for veterans and those with mental-health issues, alongside an aging population, are positive factors for the employment prospects for this occupation. The provincial social workers association has reported on the long-standing issue of turnover in the occupation related to the stressful work environment, high caseloads and staff burnout. Many new social workers begin their career in child services, as job tends to be more available, before progressing into other areas of social work.

    Here are some key facts about social workers in Nova Scotia:

    • Approximately 1,750 people work in this occupation.
    • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 25%
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 25%
      • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 20%
      • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 7%
      • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 93% compared to 82% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 7% compared to 18% for all occupations
    • 81% of social workers work all year, while 19% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 47 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of social workers are self-employed compared to an average of 11% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 14% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: 86% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 10% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 27% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: less than 5% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 51% compared to 20% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 43% compared to 10% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Annapolis Valley Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Annapolis Valley region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Annapolis Valley region:

      • Approximately 260 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 34%
        • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 25%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 24%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 7%
        • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 5%

    • Cape Breton Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Cape Breton region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Cape Breton region:

      • Approximately 370 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 26%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 22%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 22%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 12%

    • Halifax Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Halifax region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Halifax region:

      • Approximately 810 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 28%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 23%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 19%
        • Finance, insurance and real estate and rental and leasing (NAICS 52-53): 11%
        • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 6%

    • North Shore Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in the North Shore region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the North Shore region:

      • Approximately 220 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 38%
        • Nursing and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 28%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 27%
        • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 6%

    • Southern Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Southern region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Southern region:

      • Approximately 170 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 34%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 30%
        • Nursing and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 28%

  • New BrunswickGood

    The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in New Brunswick for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • An ageing population will support demand for social workers by increasing the need for services related to maintaining the well-being of older adults.
    • Opportunities will be greater in the province's larger urban centres of (Fredericton, Moncton and Saint John), as these areas are more densely populated.
    • Prospects are better for those who can speak both English and French.
    • Candidates must be registered and a member in good standing with the New Brunswick Association of Social Workers. In some cases, clinical experience will greatly improve employment prospects, particularly in the treatment of addiction and mental health. Many positions require a Class 5 Driver's License and access to a vehicle, as well as CPR and First Aid training. Strong interpersonal skills are considered an asset.
    • Given the expanding application of virtual care, candidates should be comfortable with all relevant technologies.

    Here are some key facts about social workers in New Brunswick:

    • Approximately 1,950 people work in this occupation.
    • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 32%
      • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 25%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 19%
      • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 8%
      • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 6%
    • 84% of social workers work all year, while 16% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 48 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of social workers are self-employed compared to an average of 10% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 13% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 87% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 30% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: less than 5% compared to 23% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 74% compared to 16% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 22% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Campbellton–Miramichi Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Campbellton - Miramichi region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Campbellton - Miramichi region:

      • Approximately 550 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 31%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 28%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 17%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 11%

    • Edmundston–Woodstock Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Edmundston - Woodstock region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Edmundston - Woodstock region:

      • Approximately 170 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 43%
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 25%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 22%
        • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 11%

    • Fredericton–Oromocto Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Fredericton - Oromocto region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Fredericton - Oromocto region:

      • Approximately 320 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 48%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 17%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 14%
        • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 10%

    • Moncton–Richibucto Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Moncton - Richibucto region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Moncton - Richibucto region:

      • Approximately 640 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 35%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 19%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 19%
        • Finance, insurance and Real estate and rental and leasing (NAICS 52-53): 8%
        • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 7%

    • Saint John–St. Stephen Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Saint John - St. Stephen region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Saint John - St. Stephen region:

      • Approximately 360 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 49%
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 23%
        • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 11%
        • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 8%
        • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 6%

  • QuebecModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in Quebec for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

    In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

    However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

    Here are some key facts about social workers in Quebec:

    • Approximately 20,100 people work in this occupation.
    • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 34%
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 31%
      • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 17%
      • Nursing and residential care facilities (NAICS 623): 5%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 85% compared to 82% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 15% compared to 18% for all occupations
    • 76% of social workers work all year, while 24% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 46 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of social workers are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 13% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 87% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: less than 5% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 74% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 22% compared to 11% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Abitibi-Témiscamingue Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Abitibi - Témiscamingue region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Abitibi - Témiscamingue region:

      • Approximately 420 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 52%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 33%

    • Bas-Saint-Laurent Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region:

      • Approximately 590 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 56%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 37%

    • Capitale-Nationale Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Capitale-Nationale region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Capitale-Nationale region:

      • Approximately 2,920 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 62%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 25%
        • Other services (except public administration) (NAICS 81): 7%

    • Centre-du-Québec Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Centre-du-Québec region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Centre-du-Québec region:

      • Approximately 350 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 83%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 13%

    • Chaudière-Appalaches Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Chaudière - Appalaches region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Chaudière - Appalaches region:

      • Approximately 910 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 61%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 30%

    • Côte-Nord Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions:

      • Approximately 360 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 47%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 46%

    • Estrie Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Estrie region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Estrie region:

      • Approximately 820 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 69%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 18%
        • Other services (except public administration) (NAICS 81): 7%

    • Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Gaspésie - Îles-de-la-Madeleine region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Gaspésie - Îles-de-la-Madeleine region:

      • Approximately 270 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 61%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 28%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 6%

    • Lanaudière Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Lanaudière region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Lanaudière region:

      • Approximately 780 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 53%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 39%

    • Laurentides Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Laurentides region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Laurentides region:

      • Approximately 1,210 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 50%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 38%
        • Other services (except public administration) (NAICS 81): 5%

    • Laval Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the census metropolitan area of Montréal, including the Laval region, for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the census metropolitan area of Montréal, including the Laval region,:

      • Approximately 7,490 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.

    • Mauricie Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Mauricie region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Mauricie region:

      • Approximately 430 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 57%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 31%

    • Montréal Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the census metropolitan area of Montréal for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the census metropolitan area of Montréal:

      • Approximately 7,490 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.

    • Montérégie Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Montérégie region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Montérégie region:

      • Approximately 2,550 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 59%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 28%

    • Nord-du-Québec Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions:

      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 47%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 46%

    • Outaouais Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Outaouais region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Outaouais region:

      • Approximately 830 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 46%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 37%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 5%

    • Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Saguenay - Lac-Saint-Jean region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends primarily on the need for social services and government spending on these services.

      In recent years, the demand for social services has increased significantly due to several factors, including the aging of the population, a growing awareness of mental health issues, a rise in household economic insecurity, housing shortages, addiction issues, and an increase in homelessness.

      However, since the health care and social services system is the main employer for this occupation, employment growth will be moderated by the expected slowdown in public health spending.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Saguenay - Lac-Saint-Jean region:

      • Approximately 800 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 64%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 22%
        • Other services (except public administration) (NAICS 81): 6%

  • OntarioModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in Ontario for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    What Types of Employers Are Out There?

    • These professionals provide services in a variety of settings. A high proportion work in individual and family services, and to a lesser extent, in hospitals

    What are the Main Trends Affecting Employment?

    • The social needs of a growing and aging population will support demand for these professionals in the forecast period
    • Significant government investments in mental health and addiction services

    What Skills Do I Need to Succeed?

    • Social work is regulated by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, and only licensed members can use the title of 'social worker.'

    Here are some key facts about social workers in Ontario:

    • Approximately 26,900 people work in this occupation.
    • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 42%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 18%
      • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 10%
      • Nursing and residential care facilities (NAICS 623): 6%
      • Local, municipal, regional, aboriginal and other public administration (NAICS 913-919): 5%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 89% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 11% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 76% of social workers work all year, while 24% work only part of the year, compared to 63% and 37% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 46 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • 7% of social workers are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 14% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 86% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 9% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 25% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 6% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 42% compared to 24% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 50% compared to 13% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Hamilton–Niagara Peninsula Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Hamilton - Niagara Peninsula region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Hamilton - Niagara Peninsula region:

      • Approximately 3,520 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 49%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 24%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 7%
        • Local, municipal, regional, aboriginal and other public administration (NAICS 913-919): 6%
        • Finance, insurance and Real estate and rental and leasing (NAICS 52-53): 5%

    • Kingston–Pembroke Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Kingston - Pembroke region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Kingston - Pembroke region:

      • Approximately 850 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 48%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 31%
        • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 10%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 5%

    • Kitchener–Waterloo–Barrie Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Kitchener - Waterloo - Barrie region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Kitchener - Waterloo - Barrie region:

      • Approximately 2,380 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 56%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 22%
        • Finance, insurance and Real estate and rental and leasing (NAICS 52-53): 7%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 7%

    • London Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the London region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the London region:

      • Approximately 1,470 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 56%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 26%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 8%

    • Muskoka–Kawarthas Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Muskoka - Kawarthas region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Muskoka - Kawarthas region:

      • Approximately 690 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 52%
        • Local, municipal, regional, aboriginal and other public administration (NAICS 913-919): 17%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 16%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 11%

    • Northeast Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Northeast region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Northeast region:

      • Approximately 1,560 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 51%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 28%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 6%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 6%

    • Northwest Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Northwest region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Northwest region:

      • Approximately 770 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 57%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 22%
        • Local, municipal, regional, aboriginal and other public administration (NAICS 913-919): 5%

    • Ottawa Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Ottawa region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Ottawa region:

      • Approximately 2,500 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 40%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 32%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 7%

    • Stratford–Bruce Peninsula Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Stratford - Bruce Peninsula region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Stratford - Bruce Peninsula region:

      • Approximately 450 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 60%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 33%

    • Toronto Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Toronto region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Toronto region:

      • Approximately 10,850 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 48%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 26%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 6%
        • Finance, insurance and Real estate and rental and leasing (NAICS 52-53): 5%

    • Windsor-Sarnia Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Windsor - Sarnia region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Windsor - Sarnia region:

      • Approximately 1,580 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 53%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 21%
        • Local, municipal, regional, aboriginal and other public administration (NAICS 913-919): 6%

  • ManitobaModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in Manitoba for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Demand for this occupation is driven by the province's growing and aging population who need social assistance services, and an increasing array of complex social, health and livability issues which require support, advocacy and resources. Funding for positions is generally through provincial and federal budget allocations.
    • Key trends for this occupation include specialized skills and cultural competence to meet the needs of immigrant and refugee communities and changing family structures, integration into health and long-term care settings with interdisciplinary teams, and an emphasis on early intervention and preventative care. 
    • This occupation faces the challenges of managing heavy caseloads and complex client needs.
    • Jobs are concentrated in the Winnipeg, Parklands and North, and Interlake regions.

    Here are some key facts about social workers in Manitoba:

    • Approximately 3,200 people work in this occupation.
    • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 49%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 15%
      • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 12%
      • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 5%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 92% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 8% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 80% of social workers work all year, while 20% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 47 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of social workers are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 16% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: 84% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 31% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: less than 5% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 71% compared to 20% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 22% compared to 8% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Interlake Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Interlake region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Interlake region:

      • Approximately 250 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 44%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 24%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 21%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 9%

    • North Central Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the North Central region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the North Central region:

      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 44%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 23%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 14%
        • Finance, insurance and Real estate and rental and leasing (NAICS 52-53): 11%

    • North Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for social workers (NOC 41300) in the North region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the North region:

      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 71%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 15%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 8%

    • Parklands Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Parklands region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Parklands region:

      • Approximately 320 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 71%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 15%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 8%

    • South Central Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the South Central region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the South Central region:

      • Approximately 170 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 44%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 23%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 14%
        • Finance, insurance and Real estate and rental and leasing (NAICS 52-53): 11%

    • Southeast Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Southeast region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Southeast region:

      • Approximately 240 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 36%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 32%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 23%
        • Finance, insurance and Real estate and rental and leasing (NAICS 52-53): 7%

    • Southwest Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Southwest region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Southwest region:

      • Approximately 190 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 41%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 28%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 11%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 10%

    • Winnipeg Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Winnipeg region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Winnipeg region:

      • Approximately 2,160 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 51%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 19%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 11%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 8%
        • Finance, insurance and Real estate and rental and leasing (NAICS 52-53): 5%

  • SaskatchewanModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in Saskatchewan for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Employment in social assistance occupations is expected to continue to increase to meet the needs of the aging population and to alleviate existing social inequities.
    • Increased provincial funding for third-party providers of emergency shelter and support services for persons with disabilities, at-risk children, youth, and families is expected to sustain existing jobs and create new ones.
    • The need for services for children and youth, addiction treatment and prevention remain in high demand.
    • Funding commitments to support individuals with developmental disabilities.
    • Jobs are concentrated in high-population regions such as Saskatoon, Regina, Prince Albert.

    Here are some key facts about social workers in Saskatchewan:

    • Approximately 2,500 people work in this occupation.
    • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 34%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 28%
      • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 16%
      • Elementary and secondary schools (NAICS 6111): 5%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 91% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 9% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 76% of social workers work all year, while 24% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 46 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of social workers are self-employed compared to an average of 16% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 11% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: 89% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 33% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 15% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: less than 5% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 77% compared to 18% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 16% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Northern Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Northern region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Northern region:

      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 43%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 28%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 16%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 9%

    • Prince Albert Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Prince Albert region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Prince Albert region:

      • Approximately 510 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 43%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 28%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 16%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 9%

    • Regina–Moose Mountain Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Regina - Moose Mountain region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Regina - Moose Mountain region:

      • Approximately 1,020 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 38%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 35%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 16%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 7%

    • Saskatoon–Biggar Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Saskatoon - Biggar region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Saskatoon - Biggar region:

      • Approximately 820 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 30%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 30%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 21%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 9%
        • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 6%

    • Swift Current–Moose Jaw Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Swift Current - Moose Jaw region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Swift Current - Moose Jaw region:

      • Approximately 130 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 34%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 33%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 18%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 12%

    • Yorkton–Melville Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Yorkton - Melville region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Yorkton - Melville region:

      • Approximately 130 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 33%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 31%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 23%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 13%

  • AlbertaModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in Alberta for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Here are some key facts about social workers in Alberta:

    • Approximately 8,800 people work in this occupation.
    • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 37%
      • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 16%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 16%
      • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 7%
      • Nursing and residential care facilities (NAICS 623): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 90% compared to 80% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 10% compared to 20% for all occupations
    • 76% of social workers work all year, while 24% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 46 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of social workers are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 16% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: 84% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 10% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 28% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 13% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 12% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 56% compared to 21% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 28% compared to 9% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Athabasca–Grande Prairie–Peace River Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Athabasca - Grande Prairie - Peace River region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Athabasca - Grande Prairie - Peace River region:

      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 50%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 26%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 13%

    • Banff–Jasper–Rocky Mountain House Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Banff - Jasper - Rocky Mountain House region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Banff - Jasper - Rocky Mountain House region:

      • Approximately 440 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 50%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 26%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 13%

    • Calgary Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Calgary region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Calgary region:

      • Approximately 3,060 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 41%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 26%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 12%

    • Camrose–Drumheller Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Camrose - Drumheller region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Camrose - Drumheller region:

      • Approximately 170 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 41%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 27%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 22%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 10%

    • Edmonton Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Edmonton region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Edmonton region:

      • Approximately 3,970 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 41%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 21%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 17%
        • Finance, insurance and Real estate and rental and leasing (NAICS 52-53): 8%

    • Lethbridge–Medicine Hat Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Lethbridge - Medicine Hat region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Lethbridge - Medicine Hat region:

      • Approximately 610 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 60%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 23%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 8%

    • Red Deer Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Red Deer region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Red Deer region:

      • Approximately 330 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 42%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 21%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 21%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 10%

    • Wood Buffalo–Cold Lake Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Wood Buffalo - Cold Lake region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Wood Buffalo - Cold Lake region:

      • Approximately 210 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 37%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 31%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 23%

  • British ColumbiaModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in British Columbia for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

    The growing demand for child and family support services, homeless shelters, addiction treatment services, and Indigenous community programs is expected to ensure a continued need for social and community service workers. 

    In addition, increased provincial funding for third-party providers of emergency shelter and support services aimed at individuals with disabilities, at-risk children, youth, and families is projected to maintain existing positions while also generating new job opportunities.

    Here are some key facts about social workers in British Columbia:

    • Approximately 8,200 people work in this occupation.
    • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 30%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 25%
      • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 19%
      • Ambulatory health care services (NAICS 621): 8%
      • Nursing and residential care facilities (NAICS 623): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 87% compared to 78% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 13% compared to 22% for all occupations
    • 77% of social workers work all year, while 23% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 46 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of social workers are self-employed compared to an average of 17% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 15% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 85% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 28% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 13% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 5% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 57% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 35% compared to 12% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Cariboo Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Cariboo region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Cariboo region:

      • Approximately 350 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 43%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 35%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 15%

    • Kootenay Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Kootenay region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Kootenay region:

      • Approximately 240 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 57%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 28%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 14%

    • Lower Mainland–Southwest Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Lower Mainland - Southwest region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Lower Mainland - Southwest region:

      • Approximately 4,040 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 34%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 31%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 18%
        • Finance, insurance and Real estate and rental and leasing (NAICS 52-53): 6%

    • Nechako Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Nechako region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Nechako region:

      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 48%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 18%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 16%
        • Management and Administrative Services (NAICS 55-56): 7%

    • North Coast Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for social workers (NOC 41300) in the North Coast region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the North Coast region:

      • Approximately 240 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 48%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 18%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 16%
        • Management and Administrative Services (NAICS 55-56): 7%

    • Thompson–Okanagan Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Thompson - Okanagan region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Thompson - Okanagan region:

      • Approximately 1,070 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 44%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 28%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 11%
        • Finance, insurance and Real estate and rental and leasing (NAICS 52-53): 7%

    • Vancouver Island and Coast Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in the Vancouver Island and Coast region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about social workers in the Vancouver Island and Coast region:

      • Approximately 2,060 people work in this occupation.
      • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 40%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 26%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 24%

  • Yukon TerritoryModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in Yukon for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Most social workers in the Yukon require a degree in social work, counselling, psychology, or the social sciences.
    • The Yukon government is working toward regulating social workers by modernizing its Health Professions Act (Government of Yukon, June 1, 2025)
    • Despite social workers not formally being required to be registered by the territory until changes are made to the Health Professions Act, employers may require social workers in the Yukon to be registered as social workers or be eligible to be registered elsewhere in Canada.

    Here are some key facts about social workers in Yukon:

    • Approximately 200 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
    • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Public Administration and Defence (NAICS 91): 59%
      • Health care and social services (NAICS 62): 34%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 93% compared to 84% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 7% compared to 16% for all occupations
    • 78% of social workers work all year, while 23% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 47 weeks compared to 44 weeks for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 27% compared to 49% for all occupations
      • Women: 73% compared to 51% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: n/a
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: n/a
      • bachelor's degree: 74% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 24% compared to 11% for all occupations

  • Northwest TerritoriesModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for social workers (NOC 41300) in Northwest Territories for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Most social workers in the Northwest Territories are employed by the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority, the Hay River Health and Social Services Authority, and the Tlicho Community Services Agency.
    • Social workers in Northwest Territories are licensed by the Government of Northwest Territories.
    • Social workers in the Northwest Territories are either registered social workers or licensed social workers. Registered social workers require a Bachelor of Social Work and Licensed Social Workers require a Diploma of Social Work.
    • Social workers in the Northwest Territories must meet continuing competency requirements each year to retain their licenses.
    • Local training is available at Aurora College. In 2023, the College announced the launch of a Bachelor's in Social Work program. As of fall 2025, students can enrol in the General Studies Diploma, which will be a pathway to the Bachelor of Social Work.

    Here are some key facts about social workers in Northwest Territories:

    • Approximately 100 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
    • Social workers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Public Administration and Defence (NAICS 91): 59%
      • Health care and social services (NAICS 62): 34%
    • 90% of social workers work all year, while 10% work only part of the year, compared to 71% and 28% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 51 weeks compared to 44 weeks for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 10% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 90% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: n/a
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 14% compared to 18% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 38% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 43% compared to 9% for all occupations

  • NunavutUndetermined

    An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

Related links

Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) - Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)

Labour Market Information Survey
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