Illinois is seeing steady progress in its labor market.
According to the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES), the state’s unemployment rate dropped slightly to 4.8% in February 2025, down 0.1 percentage point from the previous month. This modest decline signals continued recovery and growth in several key job sectors.
📊 Illinois Employment Overview – February 2025
- Unemployment Rate: 4.8% (down from 4.9% in January)
- Total Jobs Added: +23,100 (nonfarm payrolls, seasonally adjusted)
- Year-Over-Year Job Growth: +56,200 jobs
- Industries With the Most Gains:
- Government: +6,800 jobs
- Educational & Health Services: +5,800 jobs
- Professional & Business Services: +5,100 jobs
📈 Which Industries Are Fueling Illinois’ Job Growth?
In February 2025, Illinois’ nonfarm payrolls increased by over 23,000 jobs, with job growth spread across nine major sectors. These industries saw the largest gains:
✅ Government (+6,800)
Much of this growth came from local and state government hiring, indicating improved public sector budgets and a push to fill essential roles.
✅ Educational and Health Services (+5,800)
The education and healthcare fields continue to expand, driven by increased demand for teachers, nurses, and support staff.
✅ Professional and Business Services (+5,100)
This sector—covering legal, accounting, IT, and consulting—saw strong hiring as businesses prepare for future growth.
Other sectors showing gains:
- Construction: +3,600
- Leisure and Hospitality: +1,700
- Manufacturing: +800
- Information: +700
- Other Services: +600
- Financial Activities: +400
📉 Declining Sectors
Only one major sector experienced a notable job loss:
- Trade, Transportation & Utilities: -2,400 jobs
Likely tied to post-holiday retail slowdowns and seasonal transportation shifts.
🧑💼 Labor Market by the Numbers
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and IDES:
- Illinois Workforce: 6,454,400 people (February 2025)
- Change from January: +23,100 jobs added
- Change from February 2024: +56,200 jobs gained (1.5% year-over-year increase)
- National Unemployment Rate: 3.9%
Illinois is gradually closing the gap between the state and national unemployment rate, with diversified job growth and consistent hiring in essential sectors.
📌 Statement from IDES Director Kristin Richards
“The continued job growth across multiple sectors in February reflects the state’s economic resilience and the impact of strategic investments in workforce development,” said IDES Director Kristin Richards.
She emphasized the department’s ongoing support for both job seekers and employers through digital tools, hiring events, and partnerships.
🔎 What This Means for Job Seekers
If you’re currently looking for work in Illinois, now is a great time to explore opportunities in growing fields like:
- Public service and government administration
- Healthcare and education
- Business consulting and information technology
- Skilled trades and construction
IDES continues to offer free resources such as:
- IllinoisJobLink.com – The state’s premier job search platform
- Career training and certification programs
- Virtual and in-person hiring events statewide
📍 Regional Job Recovery Across Illinois
Job growth is not confined to just one metro area. While Chicago remains a hub of employment, downstate regions like Peoria, Springfield, Rockford, and Champaign-Urbana are also experiencing stable or growing employment trends.
The ongoing infrastructure investments and workforce development grants across Illinois are helping rural and suburban communities bounce back post-pandemic.
🧭 Moving Forward: What’s Next for Illinois?
While Illinois still trails slightly behind the national unemployment average, the consistent month-over-month job growth, especially in core service industries and government, is a positive sign.
As economic headwinds like inflation and interest rates persist, Illinois’ strategy of targeted investment in education, health, and public services appears to be paying off.
📝 Conclusion: Steady Recovery, Promising Momentum
The slight dip in Illinois’ unemployment rate to 4.8% in February 2025, coupled with a significant gain of 23,100 jobs, highlights the state’s ongoing recovery and economic resilience.
From public services to professional roles, Illinois is creating opportunities across multiple sectors—and residents are benefiting.
📣 Call to Action
🎯 Looking for a job or considering a career switch?
Visit IllinoisJobLink.com to find opportunities in your area.
📌 Employers hiring in Illinois?
Connect with IDES for recruitment support, training resources, and tax incentive programs.
💬 Stay updated on job trends, labor reports, and workforce initiatives by following the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) and subscribing to news updates on Illinois.gov.
