Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) reported an increase in the state's unemployment rate to 4.8% in December, marking a 0.1 percentage point rise from November. This change comes alongside a modest increase in nonfarm payrolls by 1,200 jobs during the same period. The figures are based on preliminary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

November's unemployment rate remained steady at 4.7%, although the initial report of job gains was revised downward from 6,800 to 4,400 jobs. December's data reflects activity for the week that included the 12th.

Significant job gains were observed in sectors such as Leisure and Hospitality (+3,300), Educational and Health Services (+1,700), and Government (+1,100). However, declines were noted in Trade, Transportation and Utilities (-4,900), Information (-1,200), and Other Services (-400).

Deputy Governor Andy Manar commented on the report stating: “Today’s report adds the finishing touches on a year of strong, consistent job growth and continued accomplishments surrounding the stabilization of the state’s labor market.” He emphasized IDES's commitment to workforce services as they enter a new year.

Kristin Richards, Director of DCEO, highlighted ongoing economic progress: “Illinois continues to see positive economic growth as payroll jobs increase.” She affirmed DCEO's dedication to supporting businesses and workers through various resources.

The state's unemployment rate is currently 1.1 percentage points higher than the national average of 3.7%. Compared to last year when it was at 4.6%, Illinois has seen a slight rise in its unemployment rate by 0.2 percentage points.

Over the past year, nonfarm payroll jobs have increased by 57,800 across several major industries with notable growth in Government (+35,500), Educational and Health Services (+29,900), and Leisure and Hospitality (+17,800). However, there were decreases in Professional and Business Services (-25,900), Information (-6,600), and Trade, Transportation and Utilities (-6,500).

Overall nonfarm payrolls grew by 0.9% over-the-year in Illinois compared to a national increase of 1.7%. The number of unemployed individuals rose by 1.3% from November totaling 310,200 people; this marks a rise of 4.3% compared to December last year.

Governor Pritzker's initiative 'Get Hired Illinois' continues offering resources like virtual job fairs and training via its platform which features IllinoisJobLink.com—a leading state job search engine showing numerous opportunities for job seekers.