Labor markets show mixed trends in Illinois and Iowa

In Illinois, the unemployment rate fell to 4.6% in September, marking the third consecutive monthly decline. According to the Illinois Department of Employment Security, the rate decreased by 0.1 percentage point from August. While total nonfarm payrolls saw a slight decrease of 7,200 jobs, the leisure and hospitality sector led monthly gains with 5,700 new jobs, followed by construction with 1,300.

In Iowa, the unemployment rate remained steady at 3.2% for the fourth consecutive month. Iowa Workforce Development reported that the healthcare and construction industries reached their highest-ever employment levels in the state. Officials noted that the increase in healthcare employment includes providers and support staff, reflecting ongoing efforts to address staffing needs.