Real estate agents in Canada earn varying incomes depending on experience, location, and market conditions. As of 2025, the average annual salary for a licensed real estate agent is approximately $116,320, with a typical pay range between $60,241 and $246,434 annually.
Top earners in the 90th percentile have reported making up to $525,317. Understanding real estate agent salaries is crucial for those considering a career in the industry or planning to hire an agent for property transactions.
National Average Salary for Real Estate Agents
The earnings potential for real estate agents has changed over the past decade. In 2015, the estimated average annual salary for Canadian agents was around $104,000. By 2025, salaries have increased to $116,320, reflecting an 11.8% growth over ten years. This growth demonstrates how experience, market trends, and strategic positioning in high-demand cities can impact income.
Salary Comparisons by Year
The following table provides a comparison of average real estate agent salaries across Canada for the years 2023, 2024, and 2025:
| Year | Average Salary (CAD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $104,138 | Based on 1.3k salaries reported |
| 2024 | $91,128 | Average annual income in Ontario |
| 2025 | $116,320 | Average salary for licensed real estate agents |
Historical Salary Comparison (2015 vs. 2025)
To understand the growth in earnings over the past decade, here’s a comparison between 2015 and 2025:
| Year | Average Salary (CAD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $104,000 | Estimated average salary for real estate agents |
| 2025 | $116,320 | Average salary for licensed real estate agents |
This indicates a 11.8% increase in average salary over the past decade.
City-by-City Salary Breakdown
Salaries can vary significantly depending on the city due to differences in property values, market activity, and cost of living. City-specific data for major Canadian urban centers shows notable differences in agent earnings:
| City | 2023 Average Salary (CAD) | 2024 Average Salary (CAD) | 2025 Average Salary (CAD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vancouver | $104,000 | $91,128 | $116,320 | High demand and cost of living |
| Toronto | $100,000 | $95,000 | $110,000 | Competitive market with high volume of transactions |
| Calgary | $85,000 | $80,000 | $95,000 | Growing economy with suburban expansion |
| Montreal | $75,000 | $70,000 | $85,000 | Diverse market with varying property types |
| Ottawa | $90,000 | $85,000 | $100,000 | Stable government-driven real estate market |
Note: These figures are estimates and can vary based on individual performance and market conditions.
Factors That Affect Real Estate Agent Earnings
Several factors influence real estate agent earnings. Experience is a major determinant, as agents who have worked in the industry longer often close more deals and earn higher commissions.
Location plays a critical role, with high-demand urban areas like Vancouver and Toronto offering greater income potential due to higher property values and transaction volumes.
Market conditions also impact earnings; periods of high sales activity can increase commissions, while market slowdowns may reduce transaction opportunities. Additionally, the brokerage an agent is affiliated with can influence income through commission splits, support services, and marketing resources.
Additional Income Sources for Agents
Real estate agents also earn additional income through bonuses, incentives, and referrals. Specialized training in luxury properties, commercial real estate, or investment properties can significantly boost an agent’s overall compensation. Professional networking, consistent client service, and marketing acumen directly affect the number of transactions an agent completes each year.
Comparing Salaries Across Cities
Understanding salary trends across cities can help agents plan their career strategically. Vancouver agents enjoy the highest average salaries due to the premium housing market, while Montreal agents have more moderate earnings but opportunities in diverse property types.
Toronto agents face competition but benefit from high transaction volumes. Calgary and Ottawa offer stable opportunities, often with lower competition but strong potential in suburban and commercial markets.
Costs and Expenses That Impact Net Earnings
In addition to gross income, real estate agents need to consider expenses such as licensing fees, marketing costs, association memberships, transportation, and professional development. These costs affect net income but are necessary investments for long-term success and higher earnings.
Long-Term Growth Potential
The growth trajectory for real estate agents shows that income potential is tied closely to market knowledge, local expertise, client relationships, and specialization.
Agents who adapt to market trends, such as increasing demand for sustainable properties, energy-efficient homes, and smart-home features, can position themselves for higher earnings. Incorporating tools like property value calculators, market reports, and client-focused websites can further enhance income potential.
Conclusion
Real estate agents in Canada have the potential to earn substantial incomes, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and market conditions.
While the national average in 2025 is $116,320, individual earnings can range widely depending on performance, city, market conditions, and specialization. Prospective agents should evaluate these factors carefully to maximize their career potential.
For further insights on property values, market trends, and cost planning, visit Renting vs Buying in Vancouver and Home Cost Calculator.
My name is Jay, a longtime Metro Vancouverite sharing local real estate tips and my own photos of the city’s homes and neighbourhoods here on Vancouver Home Hub. Hope you find my blog useful! Feel free to reach out anytime at vancouverhomehub@gmail.com if you have questions.
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