Sam SmithOntario, Canada’s economic powerhouse, is home to the nation’s largest concentration of corporate headquarters, hospitals, and research institutions. With Toronto serving as a global financial and tech hub, salaries across the province reflect both high competition and advanced specialization. The top earners — including surgeons, senior executives, and specialized engineers — routinely exceed $250,000 CAD annually, driven by demand in healthcare, finance, and innovation.
Beyond the major cities, strong opportunities also exist in energy, mining, and skilled trades, where wages rise to attract talent to northern regions. Ontario’s highly educated workforce and diverse economy make it one of North America’s most rewarding regions for experienced professionals and technical specialists alike.
Highest-paying Jobs in Ontario – Key Factors Driving their High Compensation
1. Surgeons (Cardiovascular, Neuro, Orthopedic)
Surgeons in Ontario earn $350,000–$600,000+ CAD annually, reflecting their critical role in the healthcare system. Complex procedures, long training periods, and high malpractice liability contribute to top-tier pay. Orthopedic and cardiovascular surgeons, in particular, command exceptional salaries due to demand from an aging population and sports-related injuries. Most surgeons work in major hospitals like Toronto General or Sunnybrook, often combining clinical practice with research or private consultation to boost earnings further.
2. Anesthesiologists
Earning $300,000–$500,000 CAD per year, anesthesiologists are among Ontario’s most indispensable medical specialists. They play a crucial role in surgery, pain management, and emergency care. Given the shortage of qualified anesthesiologists across Canada, their skills are highly sought after in both urban and rural hospitals. The intensity of their work, coupled with the responsibility of patient safety under anesthesia, justifies their elite pay level and consistent inclusion among Ontario’s top earners.
3. Chief Executives (CEOs, Presidents)
Chief Executives in Ontario earn between $250,000 and $1 million+ CAD, depending on company size and industry. Leaders in finance, technology, and energy sectors — particularly those in Toronto — often receive multi-million-dollar compensation packages that include bonuses, stock options, and profit-sharing. Their high earnings reflect strategic leadership, corporate governance, and accountability for long-term growth. In a province with numerous Fortune 500 subsidiaries, top executives shape both business outcomes and employment trends.
4. Physicians (General Practice & Specialist)
General physicians and medical specialists in Ontario typically earn $250,000–$400,000 CAD annually. Specialists in fields like internal medicine, dermatology, and emergency medicine earn on the higher end of the range. Compensation depends on patient volume, OHIP billing rates, and whether they operate private clinics. With rising healthcare demands and physician shortages in rural areas, doctors often receive additional incentives for relocation or extended service, ensuring strong income potential across the province.
5. Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists earn $275,000–$400,000 CAD annually, reflecting both the mental health crisis and the scarcity of specialists in Ontario. They diagnose and treat mental health disorders, often managing complex patient cases requiring long-term therapy and medication oversight. High burnout rates and long waitlists contribute to high demand and elevated compensation. Many psychiatrists supplement hospital income with private practice, particularly in the Greater Toronto Area, where private consultations command premium fees.
6. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
These dental surgeons earn $300,000–$500,000 CAD annually through specialized surgical procedures involving the face, mouth, and jaw. Their income is driven by complex cases like trauma, implants, and reconstructive surgery, often outside standard dental practice. Operating primarily in private clinics, they combine surgical expertise with entrepreneurship. Training involves both dental and medical disciplines, making them among the most highly educated and best-paid dental professionals in Ontario’s healthcare sector.
7. Vice Presidents (Senior VP, Executive VP)
Senior Vice Presidents in Ontario’s corporate sector earn $220,000–$400,000 CAD annually, with additional performance bonuses. They oversee large divisions within banks, insurance firms, and tech companies, managing strategic growth and profitability. Many also receive benefits such as stock options or executive pensions. As second-in-command to the CEO, VPs play a critical role in policy-making and business development, making them essential — and highly compensated — figures in Ontario’s major corporations.
8. Orthodontists
Orthodontists in Ontario typically earn $250,000–$400,000 CAD, depending on patient volume and clinic ownership. Their specialization in correcting dental alignment and jaw structure commands high demand, particularly among younger demographics and adults seeking cosmetic enhancement. Operating private clinics allows orthodontists to set premium prices, especially in urban centers like Toronto and Ottawa. The combination of medical skill, long-term patient relationships, and entrepreneurial opportunity makes this one of Ontario’s most lucrative dental careers.
9. Dentists (Specialists)
Specialist dentists earn $220,000–$350,000 CAD, with those in periodontics, prosthodontics, and endodontics on the higher end. Their salaries reflect years of postgraduate education, precision work, and patient reliance on complex procedures. Many dentists increase income through clinic ownership or by offering elective cosmetic treatments. Ontario’s dense urban population and growing demand for aesthetic dentistry ensure that experienced specialists remain financially well-rewarded and professionally respected.
10. Nurse Anesthetists
Nurse anesthetists earn between $180,000–$250,000 CAD, ranking among the highest-paid advanced practice nurses. They assist anesthesiologists in surgery, pain management, and critical care. Ontario’s shortage of anesthesia professionals elevates their value, particularly in smaller hospitals. Their combination of medical expertise, technical precision, and leadership in perioperative care ensures compensation far above standard nursing salaries. Many also pursue consulting or teaching roles in medical universities to supplement their income.
11. Lawyers (Partners, Senior Counsel)
Senior lawyers in Ontario earn $180,000–$350,000 CAD, while equity partners in top Bay Street firms can surpass $500,000 CAD annually. Specialties such as corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, and intellectual property yield the highest returns. Long working hours, complex negotiations, and client confidentiality underpin their compensation. Ontario’s legal sector remains competitive and prestigious, rewarding those who combine analytical expertise with business acumen and negotiation skill.
12. Petroleum Engineers
Petroleum engineers earn $160,000–$250,000 CAD, especially when working with national or multinational firms. While Ontario itself isn’t a major oil producer, these professionals often manage projects or corporate operations from Toronto-based headquarters. Their compensation reflects technical expertise in resource extraction, safety, and energy management. As global energy markets evolve, engineers with renewable transition experience are increasingly in demand, commanding strong pay within Ontario’s engineering and energy consulting sectors.
13. Engineering Managers
Engineering Managers in Ontario earn $150,000–$230,000 CAD, overseeing teams across mechanical, civil, and electrical disciplines. They combine technical knowledge with leadership, ensuring large projects meet safety and budget standards. Common employers include infrastructure firms, manufacturing companies, and technology developers. With Ontario investing heavily in green energy and transit projects, these professionals are vital to implementation and delivery — a responsibility reflected in their high salaries and managerial authority.
14. Dentists (General Practice, Owners)
General practice dentists earn $150,000–$250,000 CAD, with clinic owners often surpassing that range. Their income depends on patient volume, location, and service mix — preventive care, restorative dentistry, or cosmetic procedures. In Ontario, strong public awareness of oral health and steady private demand keep practices profitable. Dentists who manage multiple offices or offer specialized services (e.g., implants, veneers) achieve some of the province’s highest returns among independent professionals.
15. IT & Systems Architecture Managers
These tech leaders earn $160,000–$230,000 CAD annually, overseeing enterprise-level IT systems and infrastructure. Ontario’s financial and technology sectors rely heavily on such roles to maintain cybersecurity, cloud architecture, and data efficiency. They manage teams of engineers and analysts, ensuring system reliability and scalability. With Toronto’s growing reputation as a North American tech hub, these positions have seen rapid wage growth and strong competition from multinational firms.
16. Pharmacists (Hospital, Specialized, or Owners)
Pharmacists earn $120,000–$180,000 CAD, while pharmacy owners or those in hospital leadership can earn up to $200,000 CAD. Their compensation reflects deep medical knowledge, patient interaction, and prescription responsibility. Ontario’s aging population and medication complexity increase demand for skilled pharmacists. Those who specialize in oncology, geriatrics, or clinical research enjoy particularly strong earnings and stable employment prospects across hospitals, private clinics, and retail chains.
17. Optometrists
Optometrists in Ontario earn $130,000–$200,000 CAD, depending on practice ownership and patient volume. They provide essential vision care, diagnosing ocular diseases and prescribing corrective lenses. Rising screen use and aging demographics have expanded demand for eye care professionals. Many optometrists operate private practices, offering diagnostic imaging and contact lens services at premium rates. In rural areas, government incentives further boost income due to limited competition and high community need.
18. Podiatrists
Podiatrists earn $150,000–$220,000 CAD, specializing in foot and ankle disorders. Their services are crucial for diabetic care, sports medicine, and orthopedic treatment. Many operate private clinics, billing patients directly or through extended health insurance. Ontario’s increasing diabetes prevalence has heightened the demand for podiatric care, particularly in aging populations. The blend of medical expertise and self-employment potential makes this one of the province’s most stable and lucrative niche healthcare roles.
19. Financial Managers & Controllers
Senior financial managers earn $140,000–$220,000 CAD, overseeing corporate budgets, audits, and investment strategies. Controllers in large firms often manage multi-million-dollar portfolios. Ontario’s financial ecosystem — centered in Toronto — supports thousands of such roles, particularly within banks, insurance companies, and consulting firms. Their expertise ensures regulatory compliance and fiscal performance, making them vital to corporate success. High accountability and decision-making authority justify their strong compensation packages.
20. Marketing & Advertising Managers
Marketing Managers in Ontario earn $130,000–$200,000 CAD, especially those leading campaigns for national brands or technology firms. They develop strategies, oversee digital advertising, and manage large creative teams. Compensation rises sharply in industries like consumer goods, finance, and tech, where brand impact translates directly into revenue. The best-paid professionals combine creativity with data analytics and leadership — essential skills in an economy driven by digital marketing and innovation.
Top 100 Highest-Paying Jobs in Ontario (Full List)
| Rank | Job Title | Typical Annual Salary (CAD) | Primary Sector / Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Surgeons (Cardio, Neuro, Ortho) | $350,000 – $600,000+ | Healthcare |
| 2 | Anesthesiologists | $300,000 – $500,000 | Healthcare |
| 3 | Chief Executives (CEOs, Presidents) | $250,000 – $1,000,000+ | Corporate / Finance |
| 4 | Physicians (General & Specialist) | $250,000 – $400,000 | Healthcare |
| 5 | Psychiatrists | $275,000 – $400,000 | Healthcare |
| 6 | Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons | $300,000 – $500,000 | Dentistry / Healthcare |
| 7 | Vice Presidents (Senior / Executive) | $220,000 – $400,000 | Corporate / Finance |
| 8 | Orthodontists | $250,000 – $400,000 | Dentistry |
| 9 | Dentists (Specialists) | $220,000 – $350,000 | Dentistry |
| 10 | Nurse Anesthetists | $180,000 – $250,000 | Healthcare |
| 11 | Lawyers (Partners, Senior Counsel) | $180,000 – $500,000 | Legal Services |
| 12 | Petroleum Engineers | $160,000 – $250,000 | Engineering / Energy |
| 13 | Engineering Managers | $150,000 – $230,000 | Engineering / Construction |
| 14 | Dentists (General Practice / Owners) | $150,000 – $250,000 | Dentistry |
| 15 | IT & Systems Architecture Managers | $160,000 – $230,000 | Technology |
| 16 | Pharmacists (Hospital / Owners) | $120,000 – $200,000 | Healthcare |
| 17 | Optometrists | $130,000 – $200,000 | Healthcare |
| 18 | Podiatrists | $150,000 – $220,000 | Healthcare |
| 19 | Financial Managers & Controllers | $140,000 – $220,000 | Finance |
| 20 | Marketing & Advertising Managers | $130,000 – $200,000 | Marketing / Media |
| 21 | Mining & Quarrying Superintendents | $140,000 – $210,000 | Mining / Natural Resources |
| 22 | Power Systems Electricians & Managers | $130,000 – $200,000 | Energy / Utilities |
| 23 | Airline Pilots & Flight Engineers | $130,000 – $190,000 | Aviation |
| 24 | University Professors (Law, Medicine, Business) | $130,000 – $190,000 | Education |
| 25 | Investment Fund Managers | $140,000 – $250,000 | Finance |
| 26 | Data Scientists & AI Specialists | $130,000 – $210,000 | Technology |
| 27 | Software Engineers & Developers (Senior) | $120,000 – $180,000 | Technology |
| 28 | Software Architects | $130,000 – $200,000 | Technology |
| 29 | Data Engineers | $120,000 – $180,000 | Technology |
| 30 | Cloud Architects & DevOps Engineers | $130,000 – $190,000 | Technology |
| 31 | Actuaries | $130,000 – $180,000 | Finance / Insurance |
| 32 | Management Consultants (Senior) | $120,000 – $190,000 | Consulting / Finance |
| 33 | Investment Bankers | $150,000 – $250,000+ | Finance |
| 34 | Commercial Pilots | $120,000 – $180,000 | Aviation |
| 35 | Senior Project Managers (IT / Construction) | $120,000 – $170,000 | Construction / IT |
| 36 | Civil Engineers (Senior / Principal) | $115,000 – $160,000 | Engineering |
| 37 | Mechanical Engineers (Senior / Principal) | $115,000 – $160,000 | Engineering |
| 38 | Electrical & Electronics Engineers | $115,000 – $160,000 | Engineering |
| 39 | Chemical Engineers | $110,000 – $155,000 | Engineering / Manufacturing |
| 40 | Construction Managers | $120,000 – $170,000 | Construction |
| 41 | Telecom Carriers Managers | $110,000 – $160,000 | Communications |
| 42 | Human Resources Managers (Director Level) | $110,000 – $160,000 | Corporate |
| 43 | Supply Chain & Logistics Managers | $110,000 – $160,000 | Logistics / Trade |
| 44 | Economists & Policy Analysts (Senior) | $115,000 – $160,000 | Government / Finance |
| 45 | Physician Assistants | $110,000 – $150,000 | Healthcare |
| 46 | Veterinarians | $105,000 – $150,000 | Healthcare |
| 47 | Information Systems Analysts & Consultants | $100,000 – $140,000 | Technology |
| 48 | Database Analysts & Administrators | $100,000 – $140,000 | Technology |
| 49 | Cybersecurity Analysts | $110,000 – $150,000 | Technology |
| 50 | Financial Analysts & Advisors (Senior) | $100,000 – $150,000 | Finance |
| 51 | Accountants (CPA, Senior Roles) | $100,000 – $140,000 | Finance |
| 52 | Registered Nurses (Specialized / Managers) | $95,000 – $130,000 | Healthcare |
| 53 | Power Engineers & Operators | $100,000 – $140,000 | Energy |
| 54 | Elevator Mechanics | $95,000 – $130,000 | Skilled Trades |
| 55 | Police Officers (Sergeant & Above) | $95,000 – $130,000 | Public Service |
| 56 | Fire Captains & Senior Firefighters | $95,000 – $130,000 | Public Service |
| 57 | Railway / Marine Traffic Controllers | $95,000 – $130,000 | Transportation |
| 58 | Real Estate Brokers & Sales Managers | $90,000 – $200,000+ | Real Estate |
| 59 | Technical Sales Specialists | $100,000 – $150,000 | Manufacturing / Trade |
| 60 | Advertising & Marketing Consultants | $95,000 – $140,000 | Media / Business |
| 61 | School Principals & Administrators | $100,000 – $140,000 | Education |
| 62 | Psychologists (Clinical / Counselling) | $95,000 – $140,000 | Healthcare |
| 63 | Physical Therapists | $95,000 – $130,000 | Healthcare |
| 64 | Occupational Therapists | $90,000 – $125,000 | Healthcare |
| 65 | Electrical Power Line Workers | $95,000 – $130,000 | Skilled Trades |
| 66 | Industrial Electricians | $90,000 – $125,000 | Skilled Trades |
| 67 | Construction Millwrights | $90,000 – $120,000 | Skilled Trades |
| 68 | Steamfitters / Pipefitters | $90,000 – $120,000 | Skilled Trades |
| 69 | Plumbers | $85,000 – $120,000 | Skilled Trades |
| 70 | HVAC Mechanics | $85,000 – $120,000 | Skilled Trades |
| 71 | Crane Operators | $85,000 – $120,000 | Skilled Trades |
| 72 | Web Developers (Senior / Lead) | $90,000 – $130,000 | Technology |
| 73 | UX / UI Designers (Senior / Lead) | $90,000 – $130,000 | Technology |
| 74 | Commercial Divers | $85,000 – $130,000 | Construction / Marine |
| 75 | Boilermakers | $85,000 – $120,000 | Skilled Trades |
| 76 | Aircraft Mechanics & Inspectors | $85,000 – $120,000 | Aviation |
| 77 | Tool & Die Makers | $85,000 – $115,000 | Manufacturing |
| 78 | Sheet Metal Workers | $80,000 – $110,000 | Skilled Trades |
| 79 | Railway Car Mechanics | $80,000 – $110,000 | Transportation |
| 80 | Truck Drivers (Owner-Operators) | $85,000 – $120,000 | Transportation |
| 81 | Transit / Subway Operators | $85,000 – $110,000 | Public Transport |
| 82 | Corrections Officers (Senior) | $80,000 – $110,000 | Public Safety |
| 83 | Sheriffs & Bailiffs | $80,000 – $110,000 | Legal Services |
| 84 | Social Services Managers | $85,000 – $115,000 | Government / Non-Profit |
| 85 | Librarians (Chief / Senior) | $80,000 – $110,000 | Education |
| 86 | Archivists (Government / Corporate) | $80,000 – $105,000 | Culture / Heritage |
| 87 | Editors (Senior / Executive) | $85,000 – $120,000 | Media / Publishing |
| 88 | Technical Writers | $85,000 – $115,000 | Technology |
| 89 | Instructional Coordinators | $80,000 – $110,000 | Education |
| 90 | Law Enforcement Officers (Regulatory) | $80,000 – $110,000 | Government |
| 91 | Licensed Practical Nurses (Specialized) | $80,000 – $110,000 | Healthcare |
| 92 | Medical Sonographers | $85,000 – $115,000 | Healthcare |
| 93 | Radiation Therapists | $85,000 – $120,000 | Healthcare |
| 94 | Respiratory Therapists | $80,000 – $115,000 | Healthcare |
| 95 | Medical Laboratory Technologists | $80,000 – $110,000 | Healthcare |
| 96 | Paralegals & Legal Assistants (Senior) | $80,000 – $110,000 | Legal Services |
| 97 | Business Development Officers | $80,000 – $115,000 | Corporate / Sales |
| 98 | Financial Compliance Officers | $85,000 – $120,000 | Finance / Banking |
| 99 | Purchasing Agents & Officers | $80,000 – $110,000 | Corporate / Supply Chain |
| 100 | Insurance Underwriters (Senior) | $85,000 – $115,000 | Finance / Insurance |
Closing
In conclusion, Ontario’s job market rewards education, expertise, and adaptability. The province’s mix of finance, technology, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing offers both stability and exceptional earning potential. While urban centers like Toronto and Ottawa dominate high-paying roles, smaller cities and northern regions provide lucrative careers in energy, construction, and public infrastructure. From AI researchers to industrial electricians, Ontario’s top careers reflect a forward-looking economy that values innovation and skill. With professional designations and experience, workers can achieve strong financial security and long-term career growth in one of Canada’s most competitive labor markets.