Illinois Unemployment Rate Falls to 4.4% Despite August Payroll Losses (Springfield, IL) – Illinois’ unemployment rate dropped to 4.4% in August, its lowest point in more than a year, even as the state recorded a decline in payroll jobs, according to figures released Thursday by the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES).
The seasonally adjusted jobless rate fell 0.2 percentage points from July, matching levels last seen in July 2023. The number of unemployed workers fell to 292,500, a 2.7% decrease from the previous month and down 12.7% compared with August 2024.
At the same time, nonfarm payrolls shrank by 13,300 positions in August, bringing the statewide total to just over 6.15 million. Losses were concentrated in trade, transportation and utilities (down 4,500), private education and health services (down 4,000), and professional and business services (down 2,600).
Some sectors posted modest gains, including information (+800), manufacturing (+400), and construction (+300). Compared with a year ago, Illinois payrolls are up 5,900 jobs, a 0.1% increase. By contrast, nationwide job growth over the same period stood at 0.9%.
Deputy Gov. Andy Manar said the figures show Illinois’ workforce remains resilient amid national headwinds. “At a time when flawed federal economic policies have fueled uncertainty for workers and businesses, the State of Illinois continues to prioritize jobseekers and employers by investing in key workforce initiatives and providing supportive resources and services,” he said in a statement.
Kristin Richards, director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, added that the state remains focused on long-term growth. “Through our strategic workforce development programs and various funding opportunities, DCEO is dedicated to maintaining our role as helping Illinois be the best place to live, work, and do business,” she said.
IDES officials also noted that Illinois JobLink, the state’s largest online job board, currently lists more than 65,000 openings statewide.
The agency will release updated figures in October.
Illinois Unemployment Rate Falls to 4.4% Despite August Payroll Losses
