As it concerns Illinois employment growth and loss, the latest data shows positive developments all across the state.
Over the year, the unemployment rate decreased in nine areas, increased in three, and was unchanged in two for the year ending December 2024, according to data released on Thursday by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Illinois Department of Employment Security.
Total nonfarm jobs over the year increased in six metropolitan areas, decreased in five, and were unchanged or nearly unchanged in three.
The Illinois labor force continues to see growth as payroll jobs remain steady and the market is ripe with employment opportunities across industry sectors.
Area December 2024*
December 2023**
Over-the-Year Change
Bloomington 3.7%
3.7%
0.0
Carbondale-Marion 3.7%
4.1%
-0.4
Champaign-Urbana 3.3%
3.9%
-0.6
Chicago-Naperville-Arlington Heights 4.3%
3.8%
0.5
Danville 5.4%
5.4%
0.0
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island, IA-IL 4.5%
3.9%
0.6
Decatur 5.3%
5.7%
-0.4
Elgin 4.6%
5.0%
-0.4
Kankakee 5.0%
5.8%
-0.8
Lake-Kenosha, IL-WI 4.3%
4.7%
-0.4
Peoria 4.8%
4.7%
0.1
Rockford 4.9%
5.9%
-1.0
Springfield 3.9%
4.0%
-0.1
St. Louis (IL-Section) 3.5%
4.0%
-0.5
Illinois Statewide 4.3%
4.2%
0.1
* Preliminary I ** Revised