Young Quebec anglophones earn less and have higher unemployment than their francophone counterparts, according to new statistics from PERT.
Key Findings on Income and Employment
The data, released on June 26, 2026, highlights persistent economic gaps among Quebec's youth. Anglophones aged 15-29 reported median incomes 15% lower than francophones, while their unemployment rate stood at 12.5% compared to 9.2% for francophones.
PERT, a Quebec-based research institute, analyzed labor market data from 2024-2025. The study controlled for education levels and industry sectors, finding that anglophones were overrepresented in lower-paying service jobs and underrepresented in high-wage sectors like technology and engineering.
Regional and Demographic Variations
The disparities were most pronounced in Montreal, where anglophone youth faced a 14% unemployment rate versus 10% for francophones. In rural areas, the gap narrowed but remained significant. PERT researcher Marie-Claude Bouchard stated, "These findings suggest systemic barriers that limit economic opportunities for anglophone youth."
Language proficiency was a key factor: anglophones with limited French skills had unemployment rates nearly double those who were bilingual. PERT recommended increased access to French-language training and targeted job programs.
Policy Implications and Reactions
Quebec's Minister of Economy and Innovation responded, "We are committed to addressing these disparities through inclusive economic policies." The government plans to invest $50 million in language training and youth employment initiatives.
Community groups welcomed the data, with the Quebec Community Groups Network calling for "urgent action to ensure equal opportunities for all young Quebecers." The study also noted that anglophones were less likely to pursue post-secondary education in French, limiting their access to certain professions.
