Science and Technology
A city that is rich in science and technology services is one where research and innovation thrive, and Toronto is such a city. Science and technology services is a sector of skilled and knowledge workers where human capital is the main output. This sector includes, but is not limited to: accounting and legal services, scientific research and development services, and advertising and design services. It is a highly skilled sector that has grown over the past decade and is poised to continue to do so. In Toronto, most businesses in this sector are microenterprises, which is a business that employs four or fewer people.
The science and technology sector is one that has seen significant growth in recent years, with over 452,754 Toronto residents employed in this sector. This is a 5 percent increase from 2019, when 430,560 Toronto residents were employed in this sector.
In 2020, the total number of businesses with employees in this sector was 81,702. Of that total, 75 percent of businesses were micro-enterprises. Municipal and industry-wide support for startups and small businesses aid in the creation of an entrepreneurial and innovative environment where individuals can thrive and succeed in this sector.
The sector faced few employment setbacks during the pandemic. However, longer term impacts may be felt if companies scale back investments in technology.
Toronto is home to several highly distinguished post-secondary institutions that offer a variety of research specializations, making it an attractive city for the growth and success of this sector. Individuals that work in the science and technology sector are highly skilled and hold high educational accreditations. Research suggests that nearly 90 percent of this sector has a post-secondary degree or certification. The average hourly wages in this sector have seen some growth over the past decade.
As Toronto continues to be a reputable location for the science and technology sector, businesses will continue to grow and develop here. In 2020, the total number of businesses with employees in this sector was 18,963. Of that total, 75 percent of businesses were microenterprises. Municipal and industry-wide support for startups and small businesses aid in the creation of an entrepreneurial and innovative environment where individuals can thrive and succeed in this sector.
Three-Year Outlook
Industry Outlook
Strong Growth
– Strong Decline
– Decline
– Flat
– Growth
– Strong Growth
Occupations with Positive Growth Outlook
Software engineers and designers
This occupation mainly works in the following sectors:
- Science and Technology: 55%
- Finance: 13%
- Creative Industries: 9%
Database analysts and data administrators
This occupation mainly works in the following sectors:
- Science and Technology: 27%
- Finance: 22%
- Creative Industries: 10%
Industrial designers
This occupation mainly works in the following sectors:
- Science and Technology: 40%
- Manufacturing: 12%
- Retail and Wholesale Trade: 9%
For other occupation prospects and more information visit Province of Ontario, Search job profiles (gov.on.ca) and Government of Canada, Job prospects in the Toronto Region.
What We Are Currently Looking At
COVID-19 and the Technology Industry
PwC
The accuracy of the information presented based on job posting data depends, in part, on whether jobs are categorized into the correct industries. In some cases, job postings may be incorrectly attributed to a sector grouping and the data should be interpreted with caution.
All industry and occupational data is for Toronto Census Municipal Area (Toronto CMA) unless noted.
We welcome the use and sharing of the research data contained in our reports, articles and website, with attribution to “Toronto Workforce Innovation Group (TWIG)” as your source.
March 15, 2021