SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (Chambana Today) – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) reported today that the state’s nonfarm payrolls were nearly flat in September, dipping by just 2,200 jobs (0.0%), bringing the total to 6,162,600. The August payroll report was also revised, with the monthly job loss adjusted from -13,300 to -2,200.

Industry sectors that saw growth included Trade, Transportation, and Utilities (+1,200 jobs), Information (+1,200), Leisure and Hospitality (+900), and Other Services (+900). However, several sectors experienced declines, notably Private Education and Health Services (-3,600), Government (-2,100), and Financial Activities (-600).

Despite the slight monthly drop, Illinois saw a year-over-year increase of 24,400 jobs, with notable gains in Government (+23,000), Private Education and Health Services (+12,700), and Information (+5,800). However, other sectors such as Professional and Business Services (-10,600) and Manufacturing (-4,300) saw job losses.

The statewide unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.4%, in line with August figures, based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The September unemployment rate reflects activity during the week of the 12th.

“While Illinois payrolls remain largely unchanged, these figures reflect the ongoing challenges created by prolonged federal uncertainty and the recent 43-day government shutdown,” said Deputy Governor Andy Manar. “The State of Illinois will continue to focus on strategic investments that support workers, businesses, and economic opportunity across the state.”

“DCEO remains steadfast in our commitment to supporting Illinois’ world-class workforce and expanding job opportunities across the state,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Through ongoing investments in strategic workforce initiatives and a wide range of economic development resources, we are dedicated to strengthening communities and helping Illinoisans thrive.”

IDES also reported that the number of unemployed persons in Illinois decreased by 1.9% from the previous month, bringing the total to 287,000. Over the year, the unemployment rate fell by 13.4%. However, the labor force declined slightly by 0.2% month-over-month and 1.2% year-over-year.

To support jobseekers, IDES continues to host job fairs, collaborate with workforce partners, and maintain Illinois JobLink (IJL), the state’s primary job search engine, which currently lists more than 68,000 available positions.