Illinois Job Market Stumbles in October with Key Industry Losses

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced that nonfarm payrolls fell by 2,400 jobs in October, while the state’s unemployment rate held steady at 5.3%.

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This stagnation reflects ongoing challenges in key industries despite gains in select sectors.

Job Losses Hit Major Sectors

The latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights significant job losses in Trade, Transportation, and Utilities (-1,900), Other Services (-1,000), and Professional and Business Services (-300).

The drop in payroll jobs underscores the need for strategic investments in Illinois’ workforce. IDES and its partners remain focused on equipping job seekers and employers with the tools they need to adapt and grow. -Deputy Governor Andy Manar

These declines contributed to a revised September jobs report that shifted from a previously reported gain of 7,100 to a loss of 15,800, according to an IDES press release.

Bright Spots: Leisure and Hospitality Lead Gains

Despite the downturn in some areas, Leisure and Hospitality stood out with a monthly gain of 1,400 jobs, reflecting increased activity in restaurants and entertainment venues.

Manufacturing and Private Education and Health Services each added 100 jobs, showing stability in these essential sectors.

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“Illinois’ steady payroll numbers in areas like education and hospitality demonstrate the importance of fostering a diverse economic ecosystem,” said Kristin Richards, Director of the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

Unemployment Rate Comparison

Illinois’ unemployment rate remains 1.2 percentage points higher than the national rate of 4.1%. Over the past year, the state’s unemployment rate increased by 0.5 percentage points, while total nonfarm payrolls grew by 40,500 jobs.

Sectors like Private Education and Health Services saw the largest annual gains (+30,400 jobs), while Professional and Business Services experienced the steepest losses (-18,400 jobs).

Job Resources for Illinoisans

IDES continues to connect jobseekers with opportunities through its Illinois JobLink platform, which currently lists over 84,000 available jobs.

“As we navigate these economic fluctuations, resources like Illinois JobLink are vital for matching talent with employers,” Manar added.

With the state’s labor force growing slightly, officials are optimistic about recovery efforts but emphasize the need for ongoing support to sustain momentum, according to the press release.

IDES helps connect jobseekers to employers who are hiring in a number of ways, including hosting and co-hosting job fairs and hiring events with statewide workforce partners, and through maintaining Illinois JobLink (IJL), the state’s largest job search engine.

CLICK HERE to see not seasonally adjusted jobs data with industry detail.