Handymen—often called general maintenance or jack‑of‑all‑trades workers—play a vital role in keeping homes, offices, and commercial spaces in top shape. In Burnaby, British Columbia, a vibrant city in the Metro Vancouver area, the demand for skilled handymen continues to be strong thanks to ongoing construction, property renovations, and regular maintenance needs.
This comprehensive 2026 guide explores handyman salaries in Burnaby, BC, including average earnings, factors that influence pay, how experience matters, job market trends, benefits of the role, and how wages compare with nearby cities.
🔧 What Does a Handyman Do?
A handyman typically performs a variety of tasks that might include:
Minor carpentry, painting, and drywall repairs
Fixture installation and maintenance
Basic plumbing and electrical work (non‑specialized)
General home repairs and property upkeep
This versatility makes the role essential for homeowners, property managers, and businesses alike.
💰 Average Handyman Salary in Burnaby, BC (2026)
In Burnaby, handyman wages are generally higher than the provincial and national averages due to the city’s high cost of living and strong service industry demand.
💵 Hourly Wage Estimates
| Source | Average Hourly Wage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General Handyman in Burnaby | ~$33.90/hour | Reported salaries, typical worker rate |
| Handyman Connection Burnsaby | ~$37.05/hour | Range: $18.80–$59.95/hr |
| Mr. Handyman Burnaby | ~$34.20/hour | Range: $17.15–$51.60/hr |
Typical hourly wage in Burnaby:
👉 ~$33–$38 per hour depending on experience, employer, and job complexity.
💼 Estimated Annual Pay
Handymen can be salaried employees or paid hourly. If working full‑time (40 hrs/week), annual earnings typically range from:
Approx. $60,000 to $80,000+ CAD per year (based on hourly wages above and consistent work)
📈 Salary by Experience Level
As with most trades, experience significantly influences how much you can earn:
🔰 Entry‑Level (0–2 years)
Performs basic repairs and maintenance
May work under supervision or on simple jobs
Typical pay: ~$25–$30/hr
🔧 Mid‑Level (3–7 years)
Handles more complex tasks with less oversight
Comfortable with a broader range of repairs
Pay range: ~$32–$38/hr
💼 Senior Handyman / Specialist (7+ years)
Highly skilled, can take on renovations and project lead roles
May work independently or as a contractor
Pay range: ~$38–$45+/hr+
Experienced handymen often earn more by offering specialized services or by contracting directly with homeowners or property firms.
🧠 Factors That Influence Handyman Earnings
Several key factors affect handyman wages in Burnaby:
✔️ Skill Level & Experience
More experience typically translates to higher wages and more trust from clients.
✔️ Services Offered
Specializations (e.g., tiling, cabinetry, minor plumbing) can command premium rates.
✔️ Employer Type
Working for a company may provide steady hours, while independent contractors may charge more but shoulder their own business costs.
✔️ Certifications & Licenses
Though not always mandatory for basic handyman work, certifications in trades (electrical, HVAC basics, plumbing) increase credibility and pay.
✔️ Demand & Seasonal Fluctuations
Summer and renovation seasons often bring higher demand and more work opportunities.
📊 Job Market Trends in Burnaby (2026)
Burnaby is part of the Metro Vancouver region, where construction, renovations, and property maintenance remain strong:
Continued residential and commercial renovations boost handyman demand.
Aging properties require regular upkeep and repairs.
Homeowners increasingly seek skilled, reliable general maintenance professionals.
Local services and property management companies often outsource handyman tasks.
Overall, job stability in this field is solid, with opportunities both as employed technicians and independent contractors.
🎁 Benefits of Being a Handyman in Burnaby
Handymen often enjoy benefits beyond base pay, including:
Flexible work schedules
Opportunities for overtime and premium rates on urgent jobs
Ability to work independently or start a small business
Growing demand for general maintenance boosts job security
Potential to specialize for higher earnings
Some employers may also provide benefits like health coverage, paid time off, or tools allowance.
📚 Certifications, Education & Earnings
While formal education isn’t always required, certain training and certificates can boost a handyman’s earnings:
Valuable Certifications
Trade‑specific certifications (carpentry, plumbing basics, electrical basics)
First Aid/WHMIS safety training
Business licenses for independent contractors
Education & Skill Improvements
Hands‑on apprenticeships or technical courses improve expertise.
Specialized skills often lead to higher hourly rates.
📍 Salary Comparison with Nearby Cities
To better understand how Burnaby stacks up, here’s a regional comparison:
| City/Area | Typical Handyman Hourly Wage |
|---|---|
| Burnaby, BC | ~$33–$38/hr |
| Metro Vancouver | ~$39.85/hr (wider area) |
| Vancouver, BC | ~$38/hr (Handyman Connection) |
| Surrey, BC | ~$28–$30/hr (regional trends) |
Burnaby offers competitive wages that are on par with or slightly below Vancouver proper but higher than other nearby cities like Surrey or Richmond.
📊 Job Outlook for 2026
The outlook for handymen in Burnaby remains positive:
Ongoing property renovations and maintenance support a steady stream of jobs.
Skilled workers who can offer a broader range of services are in higher demand.
Independent contractors with strong customer reviews can build profitable businesses.
In general, steady demand and the ability to charge hourly rates position handymen well for solid earnings through 2026 and beyond.
🛠️ Ways to Increase Your Earnings
If you’re a handyman or aspiring to be one in Burnaby, consider these tips:
Build specialized skills (tiling, cabinetry, basic plumbing)
Collect strong client reviews for referrals
Become an independent contractor to set your own rates
Network with property managers and builders for ongoing work
Invest in tools and training to expand service offerings
Summary:
In Burnaby, BC in 2026, handyman salaries are competitive—often ranging from about CAD $33 to $38 per hour for experienced workers, with opportunities to earn more based on skills, specialization, and independent contracting. The job market remains strong thanks to ongoing maintenance and renovation demand in the Metro Vancouver region.