Canada Ranked Among Top 10 Countries for Work-Life Balance

Canada has once again secured its position as one of the world’s leading countries for work-life balance, ranking seventh in Remote Technology Inc.’s 2025 Global Life-Work Balance Index. While it dropped two spots from fifth place in the previous year, Canada remains the only country in the Americas to achieve a top-10 ranking. This distinction underscores its reputation as a nation that prioritizes the well-being of its workforce.

Key Findings from the 2025 Rankings

The 2025 Global Life-Work Balance Index, released by Remote Technology Inc., evaluates 60 leading economies based on ten critical metrics. These include statutory annual leave, sick pay, maternity leave, access to healthcare, minimum wage, average weekly working hours, public safety, national happiness index, cost of living, and LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Each country is scored out of 100 for each metric, providing a comprehensive overview of how national policies and cultural norms support work-life balance.

Canada scored an overall index score of 73.46, maintaining its position as a global leader in fostering a healthy balance between professional and personal life. Its performance was surpassed only by six other nations, with New Zealand leading the list for the third consecutive year with a score of 86.87.

Why Canada Excels in Work-Life Balance

Several factors contribute to Canada’s strong ranking. The country boasts robust statutory protections, including universal healthcare and generous sick pay, which provide a safety net for workers during health emergencies. Additionally, Canada is recognized for its inclusive policies, particularly in supporting the LGBTQ+ community, where it ranks second globally with a score of 83 out of 100.

Canadian workplaces are also known for valuing punctuality and dependability while emphasizing a clear separation between work and personal life. This cultural norm helps employees maintain a healthy balance between their professional responsibilities and family life. Furthermore, Canada has one of the lowest average weekly working hours among leading countries, at 32.1 hours per week.

Public safety is another key factor contributing to Canada’s high quality of life. The country’s strong record in this area makes it an attractive destination for individuals and families seeking a balanced and secure lifestyle.

Global Comparisons Highlight Canada’s Strengths

While Canada’s seventh-place ranking is commendable, it also highlights the progress made by other nations. New Zealand’s consistent performance in areas such as minimum wage, worker satisfaction, and statutory sick pay has solidified its position as the global leader in work-life balance.

In contrast, the United States ranks 59th out of 60 countries, reflecting significant differences in statutory rights, healthcare access, and cultural attitudes toward work-life separation. This disparity underscores the unique advantages Canada offers to its workforce.

Understanding the Metrics Behind the Ranking

The 2025 Global Life-Work Balance Index evaluates countries based on ten key metrics, each contributing to the overall score. These metrics are designed to assess how well a nation supports its workforce in achieving a balance between professional and personal life. Let’s delve deeper into how these metrics are measured and how they impact Canada’s ranking.

Statutory Annual Leave

Canada provides a minimum of 10 days of paid vacation per year for most employees, though this can vary depending on province-specific regulations. This ensures that workers have ample opportunity to recharge and spend time with loved ones.

Statutory Sick Pay

Canadian employees are entitled to a minimum of three days of paid sick leave under federal regulations, though some provinces offer more generous policies. This support is crucial for maintaining physical and mental health without financial strain.

Maternity Leave

Canada offers one of the most comprehensive maternity leave policies globally, with up to 17 weeks of maternity benefits and an additional 35 weeks of parental leave, which can be shared between both parents. This reflects the country’s commitment to supporting families during critical life stages.

Access to Healthcare

Canada’s universal healthcare system is a cornerstone of its high ranking. All citizens have access to essential medical services without the burden of high out-of-pocket costs, significantly reducing stress and improving overall well-being.

Minimum Wage

While minimum wage varies by province, Canada ensures that low-income workers are protected from poverty. This financial stability is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance, particularly for families and single-income households.

Average Weekly Working Hours

With an average of 32.1 hours per week, Canada has one of the shortest workweeks among leading economies. This allows employees to pursue hobbies, spend time with family, and engage in community activities, fostering a more fulfilling lifestyle.

Public Safety

Canada’s strong record on public safety contributes significantly to its high quality of life. Low crime rates and a stable social environment create a secure setting for residents to thrive without undue stress.

National Happiness Index

Canada consistently ranks high in global happiness reports, reflecting the overall satisfaction of its population. Factors such as access to education, healthcare, and social services play a significant role in this positive outlook.

Cost of Living

While Canada’s cost of living is relatively high, government policies and social programs help mitigate financial pressures. This balance ensures that workers can afford the necessities while still enjoying disposable income for leisure and personal development.

2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusivity

Canada’s commitment to LGBTQ+ rights is unparalleled in the Americas. With a score of 83 out of 100, the country is recognized for its progressive laws, inclusive workplaces, and welcoming social environment for all gender identities and sexual orientations.

The Bigger Picture: Why Work-Life Balance Matters

Work-life balance is not just a personal issue but a societal one. Countries that prioritize the well-being of their workforce often see higher levels of productivity, creativity, and employee satisfaction. By fostering an environment where individuals can thrive both personally and professionally, Canada sets an example for other nations to follow.

As other countries continue to improve their policies and cultural attitudes, Canada’s seventh-place ranking serves as both an achievement and a challenge. It highlights the need for ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance the supports that make work-life balance possible.

Conclusion

Canada’s seventh-place ranking in the 2025 Global Life-Work Balance Index highlights its continued commitment to fostering a healthy balance between professional and personal life. With robust statutory protections, inclusive policies, and a cultural emphasis on separating work from personal time, Canada remains a global leader in supporting workforce well-being. While there is room for improvement, the country’s strong performance in metrics such as access to healthcare, public safety, and LGBTQ+ inclusivity underscores its reputation as an ideal destination for individuals and families seeking a balanced lifestyle.

FAQ

What are the key metrics used to evaluate work-life balance in the Global Life-Work Balance Index?

The index evaluates 10 key metrics: statutory annual leave, sick pay, maternity leave, access to healthcare, minimum wage, average weekly working hours, public safety, national happiness index, cost of living, and LGBTQ+ inclusivity.

How does Canada’s statutory annual leave compare globally?

Canada provides a minimum of 10 days of paid vacation per year for most employees, though this can vary by province. This ensures workers have ample opportunity to recharge and spend time with loved ones.

What maternity leave policies does Canada offer?

Canada offers up to 17 weeks of maternity benefits and an additional 35 weeks of parental leave, which can be shared between both parents, making it one of the most comprehensive policies globally.

How does Canada’s average weekly working hours compare to other leading economies?

Canada has an average of 32.1 hours per week, one of the shortest workweeks among leading economies, allowing employees to pursue personal interests and family time.

Why is public safety a key factor in Canada’s high ranking?

Canada’s strong record on public safety, with low crime rates and a stable social environment, contributes significantly to its high quality of life and makes it an attractive destination for families and individuals.

How does Canada’s cost of living impact work-life balance?

While Canada’s cost of living is relatively high, government policies and social programs help mitigate financial pressures, allowing workers to afford necessities and enjoy disposable income for leisure and personal development.

What makes Canada a leader in LGBTQ+ inclusivity?

Canada is recognized for its progressive laws, inclusive workplaces, and welcoming social environment for all gender identities and sexual orientations, scoring 83 out of 100 in this metric.