Bloomington still has lowest unemployment rate in Illinois, though it’s up from last year

PEORIA (25News Now) – Jobs were added in most of Illinois’ metropolitan areas this year, including Bloomington and Peoria, but unemployment still rose slightly compared to last year.

Not counting farm labor, Bloomington added 1,000 jobs in March 2024 compared to March 2023, totaling 99,300. Peoria added 500 jobs, totaling 169,000. Statewide, Illinois added over 15,000 jobs.

“Job growth continues to reach areas in every corner of the state throughout industries, creating new and expanded job opportunities for Illinois workers,” Deputy Governor Andy Manar said. “IDES and its workforce partners remain prepared and committed to matching job seekers and employers to find the right fit for their career and employment needs.”

Most areas added jobs, except for the Chicago suburbs, which lost more than 4,000. The Quad Cities, Decatur, and Springfield all lost jobs, with Springfield losing the same amount as the Chicago suburbs.

Though Peoria and Bloomington ultimately added jobs, there were some significant losses. Bloomington lost 1,300 jobs across the professional business sector, financial activities, retail trade, and leisure hospitality. Peoria lost 2,000 jobs in the same areas as well as mining and transportation/warehousing utilities.

However, massive gains in government positions helped boost cities into a net gain. Bloomington also saw 800 manufacturing jobs added.

Unemployment rates rose slightly for most Illinois metro areas, though they remained relatively low. Bloomington continues to boast one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state, at 4.2%. At the same time last year, they had a 3.6% unemployment rate. Peoria’s unemployment also increased from 5.1% to 5.4% at the same time.

Danville’s unemployment rate stayed the same at 5.7%. Rockford and Decatur decreased their unemployment rates from 2024 to 2023.

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