The Gender Balance of Employment in Rural and Small Town Canada

The revitalization of rural areas in Canada remains a priority among policy-makers. Associated with this is an increase in interest in the financial circumstances of females residing in rural areas. Employment is an important indicator of economic circumstance.

This bulletin analyses rural-urban differences in the patterns of employment of males and females. Gender employment discrepancies that are either enhanced or reduced by rurality are revealed. The following employment indicators are examined: 1. overall employment levels and rates; 2. full-time and part-time employment rates; 3. reasons for undertaking part-time employment; 4. paid and unpaid overtime.