Unemployment rate down and jobs up in Illinois over the past month

Posted on March 24, 2022
The national unemployment rate for February came in at 3.8%. (Photo courtesy: WJBC/File)

By IIS and Blake Haas

SPRINGFIELD – The unemployment rate was down, and Illinois’ jobs were up last month.

The February jobless rate fell to 4.8%, down from 5% in January.

“That shows us that the Illinois unemployment rate has now declined for 22 straight months,” said State Department of Employment Security Director Kristin Richards. “Nonfarm payrolls also increased in the month of February by over 19,000, so it’s good news the Illinois economy is moving in the right direction, and the labor market is strong.”

The most significant gains were seen in the trade, transportation, and utility sector.

“Certain sectors across the state are doing especially well. Trade, transportation, and utilities continue to see growth with over 8,000 jobs added in the month of February,” added Richards/

The national unemployment rate for February came in at 3.8%.

Blake Haas can be reached at [email protected].

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