The Illinois Department of Employment Security announced on May 21 that the state’s unemployment rate held steady at 5.1 percent in April, unchanged from March, while total nonfarm payrolls increased by 11,400 jobs to reach 6,158,800.
The stability in the unemployment rate and growth in payroll jobs reflect ongoing changes within Illinois’ labor market. The data is based on information provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and covers employment activity for the week including April 12.
Industries with the largest job gains over the month included Trade, Transportation and Utilities (+4,600), Leisure and Hospitality (+3,300), and Private Education and Health Services (+3,100). Sectors that saw decreases were Professional and Business Services (-2,400), Financial Activities (-1,400), and Government (-200). Compared to a year ago, total nonfarm payroll jobs decreased by 4,500 statewide.
“April’s numbers show continued resilience in parts of Illinois’ economy, with growth in several key sectors,” said Deputy Governor Andy Manar. “At the same time, continued uncertainty coming from the federal government and other mixed economic indicators reinforce the need to continue investing in long-term growth, and maintain the fiscal discipline that has strengthened Illinois’ economic foundation.”
“Illinois’ payroll gains in April are a result of the strategic investments the State of Illinois is making in key industry sectors while supporting our world-class workforce,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “With a commitment to bolstering economic development, the State will continue to create opportunity as it supports employers and employees throughout Illinois.”
The number of unemployed persons rose slightly to 337,300—up by about 0.8 percent from March—and increased by nearly 13 percent compared to last year. The labor force declined by about 0.2 percent over-the-month and was down almost one percent over-the-year.
According to the official website, the Illinois Department of Employment Security promotes economic stability through services such as unemployment insurance programs; job search tools like Illinois JobLink; labor market analysis; community partnerships; workforce development initiatives; data provision for policy decisions; outreach across all regions of Illinois; support for workers impacted by layoffs or federal actions; job fairs; WorkShare IL programs; resources for employers posting positions or searching resumes online.
