Prairie State Wire

SPRINGFIELD – The latest data released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Illinois Department of Employment Security revealed that job growth in Illinois has seen a positive trend in several metropolitan areas for the year ending March 2024.

Deputy Governor Andy Manar expressed his satisfaction with the progress, stating, "Job growth continues to reach areas in every corner of the state throughout industries, creating new and expanded job opportunities for Illinois workers."

Among the metro areas experiencing significant increases in total nonfarm jobs were the Champaign-Urbana MSA, Elgin Metro, and Kankakee MSA. On the other hand, areas like the Springfield MSA, Decatur MSA, and Davenport-Moline-Rock Island MSA saw decreases in job numbers.

In terms of unemployment rates, the Chicago Metro, Bloomington MSA, and the Illinois section of St. Louis MSA reported the largest increases, while the Rockford MSA and Decatur MSA witnessed decreases. The Danville MSA maintained an unchanged unemployment rate.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security remains committed to providing essential employment services to Illinois workers, jobseekers, and employers. IDES offers resources such as Job Fairs, IllinoisJobLink.com, and WorkShare IL to facilitate job matching and career development.

The report also highlighted industries that saw job growth in a majority of metro areas, including Government, Private Education and Health Services, Mining and Construction, Other Services, and Wholesale Trade sectors.

For more information on the services provided by IDES and updates from the department, visit IDES.Illinois.gov.