Springfield, IL – Illinois’ unemployment rate fell to 4.4% in August, its lowest point since July 2023, even as payroll jobs across the state declined, according to the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES).
The report, released Thursday, shows that total nonfarm payrolls dropped by 13,300 positions in August, bringing the statewide total to 6.15 million jobs. July’s loss was revised to 1,100, down from an earlier estimate of 2,500.
According to IDES, industries posting job growth included information (+800), manufacturing (+400), and construction (+300). Sectors with the steepest losses were trade, transportation, and utilities (-4,500); private education and health services (-4,000); and professional and business services (-2,600).
Year-over-year, Illinois gained 5,900 jobs overall. The health care and education sector led with 18,600 new positions, while professional and business services saw the largest decline, shedding 11,600 jobs.
The number of unemployed Illinoisans dropped to 292,500 in August, down 2.7% from July and 12.7% compared with the same month last year. The state’s labor force also shrank slightly, by 0.3% month-to-month and 0.9% year-over-year. Nationally, payroll jobs were up 0.9% over the year, compared with Illinois’ 0.1% increase.
Deputy Governor Andy Manar said the numbers highlight Illinois’ resilience despite what he called “flawed federal economic policies.” Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Director Kristin Richards added that the state remains committed to investing in workforce development programs.
IDES noted that more than 65,000 jobs were available statewide on Illinois JobLink, the state’s largest job search platform, with nearly 69,000 active resumes posted by jobseekers.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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