Some key facts about Yellowknife

  • Yellowknife is a regional trading centre, catering to an estimated territorial population of 45,074 people as of January 2025, with a 1.3% increase from the previous year.

  • The city welcomed over 180,000 visitors in 2018-19, contributing to the NWT’s tourism industry, which surpassed records with a spend of over $295 million, with Yellowknife serving as the primary entry point for visitors.
  • The average age in Yellowknife is 33.4 compared to the national average of 41.7, making it a vibrant and youthful community.

  • The Northwest Territories does not have a provincial sales tax, providing a favourable environment for businesses.

  • The territorial corporate tax rate for small businesses can be as low as 4%.

  • 5 billion dollars has been earmarked for military spending in Yellowknife as of March 2026.

Earnings and economic
indicators in the NWT

  • The NWT boasts one of the highest average weekly earnings in Canada.

  • The average total household expenditure exceeded $139,000 in 2022.

  • In 2025, businesses and governments are expected to spend 5.5% more on non residential assets, such as buildings, equipment, and infrastructure. This will bring total spending to $388.6 billion. Both the public sector (+5.7%) and private sector (+5.5%) are projected to grow.

  • The unemployment rate in Yellowknife remains below 6%.

Transport infrastructure

  • Multiple national airlines offer passenger and cargo transport, connecting Yellowknife with major Canadian cities.

  • A variety of transport trucking companies serve the region, ensuring efficient transportation of goods.

  • Ice roads during the winter enable land transportation around Yellowknife.

  • The Deh Cho Bridge spans the Mackenzie River, facilitating connectivity and transportation in the area.

Image Gallery

For further information, please visit yellowknife.ca or contact the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (867) 669-2591.

Sources: GNWT News Room – Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment, NWT Bureau of Statistics (2023-06-02), Statistics Canada