Illinois Unemployment Falls Again as Hospitality and Construction Add Jobs (Springfield, IL) — Illinois’ unemployment rate fell for the third consecutive month in September, continuing a gradual improvement as hospitality businesses and construction employers added thousands of jobs.
The rate declined to 4.6%, down from 4.7% in August, according to the Illinois Department of Employment Security. The number of unemployed residents dropped 3% to 297,700.
For Illinois families, the promise behind those numbers is practical: a chance to return to work, find a steadier paycheck or take the next step in a career. Progress remains uneven, but hiring in several industries offered opportunities for people looking for a fresh start.
Leisure and hospitality led September’s gains with 5,700 additional jobs, followed by construction with 1,300. Over the past year, construction added 14,300 positions, while leisure and hospitality gained 8,500.
The gains provide encouraging signs for workers whose experience fits those fields, as well as people considering a different line of work.
Deputy Governor Andy Manar credited the resilience of Illinois businesses and workers and said the state would continue supporting employers and connecting residents with employment.
The broader report also showed challenges. Illinois lost 7,200 payroll jobs during September, with declines in government, private education and health services, and professional and business services. The labor force contracted slightly. Nevertheless, statewide payroll employment remained 13,800 jobs above its level a year earlier.
For residents still searching, the state offers hiring events and Illinois JobLink, which recently listed more than 75,000 available positions. Employers can also use the service to post openings and review resumes.
Job seekers can explore opportunities at Illinois JobLink, while those considering a career change can use the listings to see which employers are hiring and what qualifications they need.
Illinois Unemployment Falls Again as Hospitality and Construction Add Jobs
