Year-Over-Year Unemployment Rates Rise

Unemployment rose across most of Illinois over the year ending June 30, 2026. New figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Illinois Department of Employment Security show jobless rates increased in 78 counties, while 13 counties saw declines and 11 remained unchanged. Despite the broader rise in unemployment, several sectors continued adding jobs across the state’s metro areas. Government employment grew in 10 of Illinois’ 12 metro regions, while private education and health services expanded in eight. State labor officials say the numbers highlight a mixed economic picture, with hiring gains in key industries but continued pressure in many local job markets.