Handymen (sometimes called handypersons or maintenance workers) are vital to keeping homes, rental properties, and commercial buildings in good repair in Montreal, Quebec. As the city continues to grow and older buildings require ongoing maintenance, the demand for versatile labor remains solid. Salaries reflect this need and vary based on experience, skills, work type, and the broader labour market.
This detailed guide breaks down the handyman salary in Montreal, QC for 2026, including average pay ranges, factors that influence earnings, salary by experience, job market trends, benefits, and comparisons with nearby cities.
Average Handyman Salary in Montreal (2026)
According to aggregated industry data, handyman earnings in Montreal can vary significantly depending on the source and type of work — from hourly pay for contract gigs to full‑time annual salaries.
Typical Pay Ranges
| Pay Type | Annual / Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| Hourly (general) | ~CA$25.26 per hour average reported |
| Annual (full‑time) | ~$49,000 – $70,000 per year typical range |
| Average Annual | ~CA$58,000 per year overall |
Note: Hourly work may vary widely depending on contract type, skill set, and employer — some postings start around CA$20 per hour and can go higher based on experience and duties.
Handyman Salary by Experience Level
Experience plays a key role in how much a handyman can earn in Montreal.
Entry-Level (0–2 Years)
Typically basic maintenance, repair and general labour tasks
Often hourly or part‑time contracts
Hourly: ~CA$20–$25
Annual (prorated): ~CA$35,000–$45,000
Mid-Level (3–6 Years)
Broader skill set including carpentry, minor electrical, and plumbing
Stable, often full‑time positions
Annual: ~CA$45,000–$60,000
Senior Skilled Handyman (7+ Years)
Advanced multi‑trade skills, project leadership, independent work
Higher responsibility or supervisory roles
Annual: ~CA$60,000–$70,000+
Experienced handymen may also earn more when performing specialized tasks (e.g., cabinetry, tiling, outdoor decks), and those offering their own business services can set higher hourly rates.
Factors That Influence Handyman Earnings in Montreal
Several key factors determine how much a handyman can earn:
1. Skill Level and Certifications
Handymen with additional skills in electrical, HVAC basics, plumbing, or carpentry are often more in demand and can command higher wages — sometimes CA$30+ per hour on specialized jobs.
2. Type of Employment
Full‑time positions (with benefits) often pay steadier annual salaries.
Contract or freelance work offers flexibility and sometimes higher hourly rates, but benefits may not be included.
3. Demand & Seasonality
Montreal’s climate — with long, cold winters — means many indoor maintenance issues arise year‑round, keeping demand steady.
4. Tools and Transportation
Handymen who provide their own tools or transportation can charge more, especially for mobile or emergency jobs.
Job Market Trends (2026)
The handyman job market in Montreal continues to show solid activity due to:
Increased maintenance needs in aging residential buildings
Growth in rental property renovations and repairs
Demand for quick, reliable maintenance services in commercial buildings
Recent job postings show a variety of opportunities — from general maintenance roles to more specialized handyman positions offering hourly rates from CA$20 to CA$35+ depending on duties and experience.
Benefits of Working as a Handyman
Being a handyman offers several advantages:
Flexible work options: part‑time, full‑time, freelance or contract gigs
Skill variety: work across trades like carpentry, painting, and basic plumbing
Opportunity to start own business: self‑employed handymen can scale rates as skills grow
Growth potential: experience can lead to supervisory or project coordination roles
How to Increase Your Earnings as a Handyman
To boost your salary prospects:
Expand trade skills (e.g., certifications in electrical safety, plumbing basics)
Build a portfolio of completed projects and customer reviews
Network with property managers and realty firms
Offer emergency or weekend services for premium rates
Handyman Salary Comparison: Nearby Canadian Cities
| City | Typical Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Montreal, QC | ~CA$49,000 – $70,000 |
| Quebec City, QC | ~CA$50,000 – $75,000 (similar tier) |
| Ottawa, ON | ~CA$50,000 – $80,000 (higher demand area) |
| Toronto, ON | ~CA$55,000 – $85,000 (higher cost of living & wages) |
Note: Salaries generally trend higher in larger markets like Toronto or Ottawa, primarily due to cost of living and local demand.
Job Outlook for Handymen in Montreal (2026)
The handyman role is expected to remain stable in 2026 as:
Residential and commercial properties require ongoing maintenance
Renovations and retrofits continue in older buildings
More property owners prefer flexible maintenance services
With steady demand and the ability to diversify skills, the job outlook for handymen in Montreal is solid and rewarding for those who continually improve their expertise.
Conclusion
The handyman salary in Montreal, QC for 2026 reflects a healthy market for general maintenance professionals. Whether working hourly or full‑time, handymen who invest in skills, versatility, and client satisfaction will likely see better earnings and opportunities as the city’s property maintenance needs grow.