London, ON rises to fourth in North American tech talent

London, Ontario, has been recognised for the fourth consecutive year on the CBRE Scoring Tech Talent 2025 report, now ranking fourth on North America's "Next 25 Markets list".

This recognition comes as London, previously listed among the Top Emerging Tech Markets in North America, made a notable advance to its current standing. The city had a sector growth rate of 54.5 per cent over the past three years and reports a current tech employment figure of 20,700 jobs (an over 4,000 job increase compared to last year's report).

London's technology professionals have also experienced notable financial gains, as average wages have risen to CAD $106,700 (USD $77,347) in 2024. This reflects a 33.8 per cent increase in average wages since 2021.

Huntsville, Alabama, scored first place on the up-and-comers list. Halifax, Nova Scotia, ranked second, and Colourado Springs, Colourado, placed third. London is one of three Canadian cities mentioned in the top 25 list.

Growth drivers

The report noted the greater London area as an ecosystem of startups as well as for scaling companies, supported by a network of campus incubators, accelerators, centres for research and development, and economic development organisations. One of Canada's largest universities, Western, is located within the city. These support structures are cited as a key reason for fostering innovation and economic growth in the region.

The city's environment for innovation is further supported by the presence of regional innovation centres, campus-based incubators, and links to academic institutions, all contributing to economic development and job creation in the tech sector.

"London's recognition as #4 on North America's Next 25 Markets is a milestone achievement for our city and the innovators who build and invest here. London has firmly established itself as a centre for technology and talent, where businesses can grow, thrive and meet their full potential. I'm proud of TechAlliance's leadership in shaping Canada's innovation economy," said Josh Morgan, Mayor of City of London.

Local leadership have emphasised the importance of these achievements, highlighting the partnership between public, private and civic organisations in advancing the city's reputation for technology and innovation.

The city's ongoing investments in tech infrastructure to support technology professionals and entrepreneurs are acknowledged as central to maintaining the momentum of sector growth and wage gains.

London's position on the CBRE Scoring Tech Talent 2025 list is bolstered by a workforce described as "highly skilled," and the presence of support and development organisations such as TechAlliance, which help to guide ventures at various stages of their growth.

Observers note that London's continued focus on nurturing its technology sector, backed by efforts to provide capital, connections, and training opportunities, aligns with trends seen in other successful North American tech markets.