Majority of the State's Metro Areas Lose Jobs in September

While unemployment rates fell for the 19th straight month in every metro area, the majority of them -- eight of 14 -- lost jobs over the year, according to preliminary numbers released by the Illinois Department of Employment Security.

“Illinois unemployment data since January have shown very weak employment growth compared to many other states,” IDES Director Jeff Mays said. “Sub-state data paint an even bleaker picture for areas outside of the Chicago area that have lost a net 10,000 jobs over the past year. Additionally, our internal unemployment insurance claims data indicate the likelihood of labor market softening in the coming months.”

According to the seasonally adjusted statewide unemployment report released on Oct. 16, Illinois lost a total of 6,900 non-farm jobs from August to September, marking the fourth consecutive month of losses. The statewide jobless rate, however, still decreased 0.2 percentage points to 5.4 percent — the lowest since October 2007.

Here are how the state’s metro areas fared over the year. Also, see which cities and counties have the highest and lowest jobless rates in Illinois.

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