Who’s Hiring in Durham? A Deep Dive into Job Demand in Q2 2025
Durham Region saw a notable increase in job demand in Q2 2025. Employers posted 11,048 new job postings—an 18% increase from the previous quarter. The total number of active postings rose to 12,660, and full-time, permanent roles remained dominant, reflecting continued stability in the local employment landscape.
The most in-demand occupations shifted dramatically this quarter. At the top were:
- Registered nurses and psychiatric nurses (NOC 31301) – 1,256 postings
- Food counter attendants and kitchen helpers (NOC 65201) – 1,442 postings
- Home support workers and caregivers (NOC 44101) – 1,038 postings
Interestingly, retail salespersons and merchandisers, the top occupation in Q1, dropped significantly to 2,191 postings, indicating decreased hiring activity in that sector.
Across sectors, health care and social assistance retained its lead, with 2,168 postings, and continues to reflect systemic demand for care workers. Retail remained second overall in total postings but showed signs of slowing, while agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting emerged as a top growth sector, albeit from a smaller base.
The most requested skills included communication, management, customer service, and driving, highlighting the continued importance of general workplace competencies across industries. In terms of compensation, the average posted wage rose to $27.73/hour, with top-paying roles found in health care, trades, and retail management.
This quarter’s data also shows increased clarity in job listings: more employers are specifying wages and requirements, making it easier for job seekers to assess opportunities. Still, most postings required no specific education or prior experience, reinforcing that many roles remain accessible but may offer limited upward mobility without additional training or credentials.