Prairie State Wire

Over-the-year, total nonfarm jobs increased in nine metropolitan areas, decreased in three, and remained unchanged in two for the year ending July 2024, according to data released today by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES). Over-the-year, the unemployment rate increased in all fourteen metropolitan areas.

“Long-term, consistent job growth throughout the state continues to fuel and motivate eager jobseekers and employers to actively engage in the expanding economy,” said Deputy Governor Andy Manar. “Illinois proudly commits to continue its critical investments in our unique, diverse, and world-class workforce and labor market.”

The metro areas with the largest over-the-year percentage increases in total nonfarm jobs were Champaign-Urbana MSA (+4.5%, +5,300), Carbondale-Marion MSA (+2.3%, +1,300), and Bloomington MSA (+0.7%, +700). Total nonfarm jobs in the Chicago Metro Division increased by +0.1% or +4,900. The metro areas which posted over-the-year decreases in total nonfarm jobs were Davenport-Moline-Rock Island IA-IL MSA (-1.7%, -3,100), Lake County-Kenosha County IL-WI Metro Division (-0.5%, -2,000), and Danville MSA (-0.4%, -100). The Decatur MSA and Peoria MSA each had no change in total nonfarm jobs.

Industries that saw job growth in most of the metro areas included Private Education and Health Services and Government (ten areas each); Wholesale Trade (nine areas); and Mining and Construction and Other Services (eight areas each).

The metro areas with the largest unemployment rate increases were Chicago-Naperville-Arlington Heights Metropolitan Division (+2.0 points to 6.4%), Danville MSA (+1.6 points to 7.9%), Bloomington MSA (+1.2 points to 5.5%).

About the Department of Employment Security

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) provides vital employment services to Illinois workers, jobseekers, and employers with resources including Job Fairs, IllinoisJobLink.com, and WorkShare IL; analyzes and disseminates actionable Labor Market Information; and administers the Unemployment Insurance Program. To see the full range of services provided by IDES, and for the latest news concerning the department, visit IDES.Illinois.gov.