Illinois unemployment drops along with nonfarm payroll jobs: IDES

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — New data shows the unemployment rate in the State of Illinois dropped slightly last month, even as the number of payroll jobs also fell.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced on Thursday that the unemployment rate in August was recorded at 4.4%, down 0.2 percentage points from the month prior. It’s the lowest unemployment rate since July of 2023, based on preliminary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The number of unemployed persons was 292,500, down 2.7% from the prior month, and down 12.7% from one year ago.

“At a time when flawed federal economic policies have fueled uncertainty for workers and businesses, the State of Illinois continues to prioritize jobseekers and employers by investing in key workforce initiatives and providing supportive resources and services,” Deputy Governor Andy Manar said in a news release. “Illinois’ resilient and diverse workforce remains our greatest strength, and we are committed to creating new opportunities that will drive long-term economic growth.”

While the unemployment rate fell, the data shows, total nonfarm payroll jobs also fell. About 13,300 jobs were lost over between July and August, or about 0.2%.

The industry sectors with the largest over-the-month job increases were information (+800), manufacturing (+400), and construction (+300).  The industry sectors with the largest monthly payroll job decreases were trade, transportation and utilities (-4,500), private education and health services (-4,000), and professional and business services (-2,600).

Compared to a year ago, the number of nonfarm payroll jobs is up by 5,900.

“DCEO is committed to investing in our state’s greatest asset — our world-class workforce — through expanding economic development and job opportunities for all Illinoisans,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards.  “Through our strategic workforce development programs and various funding opportunities, DCEO is dedicated to maintaining our role as helping Illinois be the best place to live, work, and do business.”