Durham’s Labour Market in Q3 2025 – Steady Growth Amid Shifting Sectors
Durham Region’s labour market remained active and stable through the third quarter of 2025, showing both resilience and evolution. The latest Labour Market Insights Report for Q3 2025 from the Durham Workforce Authority reveals 12,954 active job postings and 11,189 new listings, continuing the upward trajectory seen earlier this year.
While the number of employers hiring dipped slightly to 3,655, the region’s job market remains competitive. The average posting duration rose to 17 days, suggesting that while demand is strong, employers may be taking more time to find the right candidates.
Sector Shifts
The health care and social assistance sector continued to lead the way with 2,060 postings, followed closely by retail trade (2,050) and educational services (994). However, some sectors saw significant declines, particularly administrative and support services (-39%) and education (-41%), likely due to seasonal trends.
In contrast, agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting was the fastest-growing sector for the second consecutive quarter, up 21%, reflecting ongoing diversification in Durham’s local economy.
Wages and Job Quality
Durham’s wage levels improved again, with the average posted wage rising to $28.20 per hour. Full-time work accounted for 75% of postings, and 89% of roles were permanent, signs of a healthy and stable employment landscape.
Jobs in manufacturing, utilities, and construction saw notable wage gains, while education and professional services experienced modest decreases. The strongest individual wage growth occurred among motor vehicle assemblers, psychologists, and hairstylists/barbers.
A Labour Market in Transition
Durham’s economy is clearly evolving. Healthcare and support roles continue to expand, while retail and administrative support are cooling after several strong quarters. Employers are consistently demonstrating a demand for essential soft skills, including communication, management, and customer service, while wage transparency continues to improve.
As 2025 moves into its final quarter, Durham’s labour market stands on a solid footing, resilient, adaptive, and increasingly focused on skill-based growth that supports both employers and job seekers.