April 23, 2025 – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced that total nonfarm payroll jobs rose by 14,800 in March, reaching a record high of 6,172,300. This surpasses the previous high of 6,161,000 recorded in December 2024. The March figure includes an upward revision of February’s data from a reported decline of 6,500 to an increase of 900 jobs.
The state’s unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.8 percent for March. The March estimates reflect labor market activity during the week including March 12.
Industries reporting the most job growth over the month included Government with 4,500 jobs added, Trade, Transportation and Utilities with 2,600, and Private Education and Health Services with 2,200. Meanwhile, the Information sector lost 400 jobs, and Financial Activities saw a decline of 300.
Compared to March of the previous year, payroll employment increased by 34,200 jobs. The largest year-over-year gains occurred in Government, which added 20,900 jobs; Private Education and Health Services, with 19,800; and Leisure and Hospitality, with 5,800. Year-over-year declines occurred in Professional and Business Services, which lost 12,900 jobs; Manufacturing, down 5,500; and Construction, down 900.
“Today’s data is a marked bright spot for the Illinois labor market, its workers, and employers. The new high in job growth underscores the resolve of our state labor force and shows that working and doing business in Illinois pays off.” said Andy Manar, Deputy Governor.
“The record-breaking job growth throughout Illinois is a true testament to the State’s commitment to supporting its world-class workforce. Our work continues as we strive to ensure Illinois remains the best place to live, work and do business.” said Kristin Richards, Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.
The number of unemployed workers in March was 321,500, a 0.1 percent increase from the previous month but a 2.5 percent decrease from the same month last year. The state’s labor force declined by 0.1 percent over the month but grew by 0.6 percent over the year.
IDES continues to support jobseekers and employers through job fairs, hiring events, and Illinois JobLink (IJL), the state’s largest job search engine. As of the latest report, IJL listed 62,346 resumes and 77,972 available jobs.
