Illinois Sees Small Payroll Job Decrease, Slight Unemployment Rise in February

State officials cite economic instability from federal policies as contributing factors

Apr. 19, 2026 at 1:15pm

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A minimalist composition of overlapping geometric shapes in shades of blue, green, and red, conceptually representing the economic data and trends discussed in the story.An abstract illustration captures the economic instability and sector shifts reflected in Illinois' latest jobs and unemployment data.Springfield Today

Illinois saw a 0.3% decrease in total nonfarm payroll jobs and a 0.1 percentage point increase in the unemployment rate to 5.0% in February, according to data from the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Key sectors like construction, trade, transportation, and utilities experienced the largest job losses, while government and other services saw modest gains.

Why it matters

The slight economic slowdown in Illinois reflects broader national trends of economic instability, with state officials citing the impact of federal policies as a contributing factor. The data underscores the challenges facing Illinois as it navigates a shifting economic landscape and works to support job growth and workforce development.

The details

Total nonfarm payrolls decreased by 17,800 (-0.3%) to 6,137,200 in February. The largest job losses were in construction (-4,900), trade, transportation and utilities (-4,800), and information (-2,800). Government (+800) and other services (+700) saw modest gains. Compared to a year ago, total nonfarm payroll jobs were down 19,900 (-0.3%), with the largest decreases in trade, transportation and utilities (-18,600), professional and business services (-15,700), and information (-3,700).

  • The February payroll jobs estimate and unemployment rate reflect activity for the week including the 12th.
  • The revised January unemployment rate was 4.9 percent.

The players

Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES)

The state agency responsible for collecting and reporting employment data and connecting jobseekers with employers.

Andy Manar

Deputy Governor of Illinois, who commented on the economic instability caused by federal policies.

Kristin Richards

Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), who discussed the state's efforts to support economic development and job opportunities.

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What they’re saying

“Rising unemployment and jobs decreases reflect the economic instability coming out of Washington right now. The Trump Administration's policies are creating real headwinds for states and working families across the country. In Illinois, we're staying focused on fiscal discipline and long-term growth to mitigate those impacts and keep our economy moving forward.”

— Andy Manar, Deputy Governor

“The State is committed to increasing economic development and job opportunities for Illinoisians. It is foundational to DCEO's mission to prioritize initiatives and programs that invest in our state's biggest asset – our workforce – ensuring all Illinoisians have the support and resources they need to succeed.”

— Kristin Richards, Director, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

What’s next

IDES will continue to work with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to support job seekers and employers through initiatives like job fairs, hiring events, and the Illinois JobLink job search platform.

The takeaway

The slight economic slowdown in Illinois reflects broader national trends, with state officials citing the impact of federal policies as a contributing factor. Illinois is focused on fiscal discipline, long-term growth, and workforce development initiatives to mitigate these challenges and support the state's economy.