With all this living wage talk, it is important to point out the differences between minimum wage and living wage.

The important thing to remember is that calculating a living wage rate helps answer the question:

 “What DOES it cost to live, learn, work and play in our community?”

Minimum wage:

1. Ontario is $10.25/hr

2. Legislated and legally binding

3. Determined by provincial government

4. Has little community building effect

5. Creates working poor

6. Is about surviving

Living wage:

1. Varies from community to community

2. Voluntary

3. Determined by the community

4. Good for local economy

5. Creates prosperity

6. Is about participating