Illinois’ May 4.8% unemployment rate was unchanged from April but higher than the national average of 4.2%. Nonfarm jobs also were largely unchanged in Illinois, which added +100 for a total of 6,166,011 jobs in May, according to the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES).
Additionally, the unemployment report said, the April monthly change in payrolls from +4,100 to -2,400 also was revised from that month’s preliminary report.
In May, total nonfarm payrolls were up +0.3% over-the-year in Illinois and up +1.1% in the nation. Illinois’ 4.8% May 2025 unemployment rate also was down over-the-year from the 5.1% May 2024 rate. Meanwhile, the 4.2% unemployment rate for the U.S. in May 2025 is up slightly from May 2024’s 4%, IDES data show.
The May 2025 Illinois payroll jobs estimate and unemployment rate reflect activity for the week including the 12th.
The industry sectors with the largest over-the-month job increases included: Professional and Business Services, +1,900; Financial Activities, +1,609; and Leisure and Hospitality, +1,100. The industry sectors with the largest monthly payroll decreases included: Trade, Transportation and Utilities, -2,800, Government, -2,400; and Private Education and Health Services, -200.
Compared to a year ago, total nonfarm payroll jobs increased by +21,200 jobs.
The industry groups with the largest job increases included: Private Education and Health Services, +16,100; Leisure and Hospitality, +7,800; and Government, +7,000.
The industry sectors with jobs decreases included: Professional and Business Services, -8,600; Manufacturing -5,300; and Trade,Transportation and Utilities -5,000. In May, total nonfarm payrolls were up +0.3% over-the-year and +1.1% in the nation.
Labor market ‘stable’
“Amid continued challenges and changes in economic policies on the federal level, Illinois’ labor market remained stable in May,” said Deputy Gov. Andy Manar. “The state’s steady economic performance provides a reliable foundation for businesses and workers as they navigate changing conditions.”
According to Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Director Kristin Richards “A steady labor market is a testament to the state’s strength and commitment to creating economic growth and opportunity for all Illinoisans.”
She added: “DCEO is dedicated to prioritizing investments in our workforce to help bolster Illinois’ economy.”
While jobs numbers were largely unchanged, the number of unemployed workers was 318,600, down -1.0% from the prior month, and down -5.9% over the same month one year ago. The labor force decreased -0.2% over-the-month and was almost unchanged 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.
The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) provides employment services to Illinois workers, jobseekers, and employers with resources. They are Job Fairs, IllinoisJobLink.com, and Workshare IL, analyzes and disseminates actionable Labor Market Information, and administers the Unemployment Insurance Program.
For a full range of IDES services and for the latest news concerning the department, visit IDES.Illinois.gov.
