Illinois payroll jobs up, unemployment rate down in May

ILLINOIS (WIFR) – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announces that the unemployment rate increased +0.1 percentage point to 4.9 percent, while nonfarm payrolls increased +12,700 in May, based on preliminary data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

In May, the industry sectors with the largest over-the-month job gains included: Professional and Business Services (+7,100), Government (+3,300), and Financial Activities (+2,400). The industry sectors with monthly payroll job declines included Manufacturing (-2,300), Leisure and Hospitality (-1,200), Construction (-100) and Mining (-100).

“Steady, consistent job growth continues to benefit the Illinois labor market, further evidenced by individuals who are entering the job market and capitalizing on these new and expanded career opportunities,” said Deputy Governor Andy Manar. “IDES remains committed to assisting jobseekers and employers with the resources they need to participate in the expanding economy.”

The state’s unemployment rate was +0.9 percentage point higher than the national unemployment rate reported for May. The Illinois unemployment rate was up +0.7 percentage point from a year ago when it was 4.2 percent.

Compared to a year ago, total nonfarm payroll jobs increased by +43,900 jobs. The industry groups with the largest jobs increases included: Private Education and Health Services (+29,200), Government (+28,600), and Leisure and Hospitality (+13,900).

The industry groups with the largest jobs decreases included: Professional and Business Services (-24,800), Trade, Transportation, and Utilities (-6,600), and Financial Activities (-4,500). In May, total nonfarm payrolls were up +0.7 percent over-the-year in Illinois and up +1.8 percent in the nation.

The number of unemployed workers was 317,400, up +1.3 percent from the prior month, and up +17.8 percent over the same month one year ago. The labor force was up +0.2 percent over-the-month and up +1.4 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.

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