Illinois unemployment rate slightly drops in November

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced today that the unemployment rate fell -0.3 percentage point to 5.7 percent, while nonfarm payrolls increased by +19,500 in November, based on preliminary data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and released by IDES. The preliminary report for October monthly payrolls was revised from +40,900 to +42,000 jobs. The October unemployment rate was unchanged from the preliminary report, remaining at 6.0 percent.  

The November payroll jobs estimate and unemployment rate reflects activity for the week including the 12th.

In November, the three industry sectors with the largest over-the-month gains in employment were: Leisure and Hospitality (+8,200), Trade, Transportation and Utilities (+8,200), and Construction (+3,800). The industry sectors that reported monthly payroll declines were: Professional and Business Services (-5,500), Other Services (-200), and Mining (-100). 

“Today’s report reflects the continued positive trajectory of Illinois’ economy,” said Deputy Governor Andy Manar. “IDES remains dedicated to connecting employers and jobseekers to build a stronger workforce across the state. As we head into the new year, we look forward to providing more ways for businesses and workers to connect through innovative resources such as Get Hired Illinois.”

“Our monthly labor reports continue to prove that our investments across Illinois in small businesses, workforce development, and capital development projects are stimulating the economy,” said DCEO Acting Director Sylvia I. Garcia.

The state’s unemployment rate was +1.5 percentage points higher than the national unemployment rate reported for November, which was 4.2 percent, down -0.4 percentage point from the previous month. The Illinois unemployment rate was down -2.4 percentage points from a year ago when it was at 8.1 percent.

Compared to a year ago, nonfarm payroll employment increased by +230,200 jobs, with gains across nearly all major industries. The industry groups with the largest jobs increases were: Leisure and Hospitality (+94,200), Trade, Transportation and Utilities (+41,600), and Professional and Business Services (+31,600).  Financial Activities (-1,100) was the only industry group that reported jobs losses. In November, total nonfarm payrolls were up +4.1 percent over-the-year in both Illinois and in the nation.

The number of unemployed workers was down from the prior month, a -4.4 percent decrease to 354,200, and was down -29.0 percent over the same month for one year ago. The labor force was up +0.3 percent over-the-month and up +1.3 percent over-the-year. The unemployment rate identifies those individuals who are out of work and seeking employment. An individual who exhausts or is ineligible for benefits is still reflected in the unemployment rate if they actively seek work.