Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) reported that the state's unemployment rate remained steady at 4.7 percent in January, while nonfarm payrolls increased by 1,700 jobs. This data, based on preliminary figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, shows no change from December's revised unemployment rate of 4.7 percent.

January saw job growth in sectors such as Government, Educational and Health Services, and Trade, Transportation and Utilities. However, there were declines in Professional and Business Services, Construction, and Leisure and Hospitality.

Deputy Governor Andy Manar expressed optimism about the start of the year: “Today’s data is an encouraging start to the new year as payroll jobs continue to grow and the state’s workforce remains strong.” DCEO Director Kristin Richards added that Illinois' workforce continues to thrive due to efforts to equip jobseekers with necessary tools for success.

The state's unemployment rate was one percentage point higher than the national average of 3.7 percent for January. Compared to a year ago, Illinois' unemployment rate has risen by 0.3 percentage points from 4.4 percent.

Over the past year, nonfarm payroll jobs decreased by 6,600 across most major industries in Illinois. Significant job losses occurred in Professional and Business Services, Information, and Construction sectors. Conversely, Educational and Health Services, Government, and Leisure and Hospitality experienced job gains.

The number of unemployed workers increased slightly over both the previous month and year-on-year figures. The labor force also showed a modest increase over these periods.

Governor Pritzker's initiative Get Hired Illinois continues to support job seekers through virtual job fairs and training opportunities via platforms like IllinoisJobLink.com.

For further details on employment services provided by IDES or labor market information updates, visit their official website at IDES.Illinois.gov.