The Illinois Department of Employment Security announced on Apr. 9 that the Chicago metropolitan area began 2026 with a record number of monthly jobs, marking nearly five years of consecutive year-over-year job growth. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and IDES, Chicago has seen job growth for 58 straight months, while Champaign has recorded gains for the past year.
This sustained employment expansion is significant as it highlights both strengths and challenges in Illinois’ labor market. While some areas are seeing steady job increases, unemployment rates have risen across all twelve metropolitan regions for the year ending January 2026.
“Chicago’s continued job growth underscores the resilience of Illinois’ economy, but rising unemployment across metro areas reflects broader uncertainty fueled by shifting federal policies and economic instability,” said Deputy Governor Andy Manar. “We are staying focused on maintaining growth, supporting employers, and investing in Illinois’ workforce.”
The report shows that Springfield experienced the largest over-the-year percentage decrease in total nonfarm jobs at minus two percent (a loss of approximately 2,100 positions). Decatur and Rockford also saw declines at minus one point three percent each. In contrast, Champaign-Urbana led with a one point seven percent increase (1,900 new jobs), followed by Peoria at zero point seven percent (1,200 new jobs) and Lake County Metro Division at zero point six percent (2,000 new jobs). The Chicago-Naperville-Schaumburg Metro Division added about 14,100 nonfarm positions—an increase of zero point four percent.
Industries such as Mining and Construction grew in eleven metro areas; Private Education and Health Services expanded in nine; Transportation, Warehousing and Utilities as well as Government sectors saw gains in seven areas each. However, unemployment rates increased most notably in Kankakee (up to seven point two percent) and Rockford (six point seven percent).
According to the official website, IDES promotes economic stability by assisting unemployed individuals while providing data crucial for policy decisions throughout Illinois. The agency aims to foster economic growth through employment services such as job search tools—including Job Fairs and IllinoisJobLink.com—labor market analysis programs like WorkShare IL, community partnerships to enhance workforce participation statewide,
and administration of unemployment insurance programs.
IDES operates as a state agency focused on workforce development initiatives that support workers,
employers,
and overall economic opportunity according to its official website.
