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Illinois closed out the year with promising economic news. The state’s unemployment rate dipped to 5.2% in December, down 0.1 percentage points from the previous month, as nonfarm payrolls added 8,800 jobs. The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced these figures, which reflect economic activity during the week ending December 12.
However, revised November data showed deeper job losses than initially reported, with payrolls decreasing by 5,400 rather than the previously estimated 3,400. Despite this adjustment, the state appears to be on an upward trajectory.
Key Sectors Driving Growth
December’s job growth was led by gains in several key industries:
- Financial Activities: +2,900 jobs
- Private Education and Health Services: +2,600 jobs
- Government: +2,000 jobs
On the flip side, some sectors saw declines:
- Professional and Business Services: -2,100 jobs
- Other Services: -1,000 jobs
State Leaders Emphasize Workforce Commitment
Deputy Governor Andy Manar underscored Illinois’ efforts to strengthen its workforce. “IDES and its workforce development partners are committed to ensuring everyone has the tools and resources they need to find professional opportunities to participate in and benefit from the stability of the state’s economic activity,” Manar said.
Kristin Richards, Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), echoed that sentiment. “As unemployment rates decrease and payroll job numbers grow, DCEO is dedicated to building upon our efforts to bolster the state’s economy.”
National Comparisons and Yearly Trends
Illinois’ unemployment rate remains higher than the national average, which also dropped by 0.1 percentage points to 4.1% in December. Over the past year, Illinois’ rate has increased by 0.5 percentage points.
On a brighter note, the state added 56,000 jobs compared to December 2023. Significant gains were recorded in:
- Government: +32,100 jobs
- Private Education and Health Services: +26,600 jobs
- Other Services: +9,900 jobs
Yet, challenges persist in certain areas:
- Professional and Business Services: -16,200 jobs
- Manufacturing: -6,900 jobs
- Financial Activities: -4,100 jobs
The state’s labor force grew slightly, rising 0.1% for the month and 1.2% over the year. Meanwhile, the number of unemployed workers fell 1.7% from November.
Jobseeker Resources
IDES continues to connect jobseekers with employers through initiatives like job fairs and Illinois JobLink, the state’s largest job search engine. As of now, the platform lists over 75,000 job openings and 65,000 active resumes.
Improved Data Accuracy
The December report also reflects adjustments to historical data, improving accuracy through annual revisions based on unemployment insurance tax reports and other benchmarks. These refinements help provide a clearer picture of the state’s economic health.
For detailed unemployment rates and sector-specific trends, visit the IDES website.
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