Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) reported that nonfarm payrolls in the state remained nearly unchanged in May, with a slight increase of 100 jobs, bringing the total to 6,166,100. The April payroll figures were revised from an initial gain of 4,100 to a loss of 2,400.

The unemployment rate for May was steady at 4.8 percent, consistent with the revised rate for April. These figures reflect data from the week including May 12th.

Job growth was observed in several sectors: Professional and Business Services added 1,900 jobs, Financial Activities gained 1,600 positions, and Leisure and Hospitality increased by 1,100 jobs. Conversely, Trade, Transportation and Utilities saw a decrease of 2,800 jobs; Government shed 2,400 positions; and Private Education and Health Services lost 200 jobs.

Over the past year, Illinois experienced an increase of 21,200 nonfarm payroll jobs. Notable gains were seen in Private Education and Health Services (+16,100), Leisure and Hospitality (+7,800), and Government (+7,000). However, declines occurred in Professional and Business Services (-8,600), Manufacturing (-5,300), and Trade, Transportation and Utilities (-5,000). Overall nonfarm payrolls rose by 0.3 percent year-over-year in Illinois compared to a national increase of 1.1 percent.

“Amid continued challenges and changes in economic policies on the federal level," Deputy Governor Andy Manar stated that "Illinois’ labor market remained stable in May." He emphasized that "the state’s steady economic performance provides a reliable foundation for businesses and workers as they navigate changing conditions.”

DCEO Director Kristin Richards remarked on the labor market's stability as "a testament to the state's strength and commitment to creating economic growth and opportunity for all Illinoisans." She highlighted DCEO's dedication to investing in workforce development to support Illinois' economy.

The number of unemployed individuals fell by one percent from the previous month to 318,600—a decrease of nearly six percent compared to last year. The labor force saw a slight decline over-the-month but remained almost unchanged over-the-year. The unemployment rate includes those actively seeking employment regardless of benefit eligibility.

IDES continues its efforts to connect jobseekers with employers through various initiatives such as job fairs and hiring events alongside statewide workforce partners. Their platform Illinois JobLink (IJL) currently lists over 67,400 available positions against nearly 59,637 resumes posted by jobseekers.

For more information about IDES services or updates regarding employment statistics within Illinois visit their official website at IDES.Illinois.gov.