In October 2024, the unemployment numbers in Illinois were concerning, with the unemployment rate being the third highest in the U.S. The state had an unemployment rate of 5.3%, with approximately 346,000 Illinoisans seeking employment. This rate surpassed the national average of 4.1% for that month.

Job growth in the same month was recorded at 40,500, which was significantly less than the national growth. Various sectors saw growth and decline in the number of jobs. State government, private education, and health services witnessed job increase, while professional businesses and the finance sector saw fewer positions.

Compared to its neighboring states, Illinois’ job growth rate ranked second lowest, with only a 0.66% increase from October 2023 to October 2024. Missouri reported the highest job growth at 2.73%. post-pandemic job recovery in Illinois has been slow, with just 1,200 more jobs than in January 2020, settling at a dismal growth of 0.02%.

Illinois witnessed a decline in residents in 2023, with most attributing the unfriendly business environment brought about by high taxes due to budget mismanagement. The state’s tax burdens are the highest in the Midwest, with one of the least friendly tax codes for businesses.

To reverse the trend, Illinois needs to strengthen its fiscal position, offer tax relief, and reduce regulatory burdens. This would attract job creators and assure workers who are finding it difficult to stay.

For Californian residents finding it difficult to navigate the unemployment scenario, it is recommended to contact edd, especially when dealing with unemployment benefits. The website eddcaller.com provides the necessary information on how to get through to edd customer service for prompt assistance.