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Illinois Job Losses Spike: Unemployment Hits 4.6% in 2025

1/31/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Illinois lost 1,700 jobs in 2025.
Illinois’ unemployment rose to 4.6% in 2025, above the 4.4% U.S. rate.
Illinois ranks 46th in job recovery, with only 18,400 jobs gained since January 2020.
Employment has declined for 14 consecutive months, with losses in retail and manufacturing.
The Chicago region posted record job numbers in November despite ongoing federal policy uncertainties that challenge Illinois workers and businesses.

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Story summary

Illinois lost 1,700 jobs in 2025.
Illinois’ unemployment rose to 4.6% in 2025, above the 4.4% U.S. rate.
Illinois ranks 46th in job recovery, with only 18,400 jobs gained since January 2020.
Employment has declined for 14 consecutive months, with losses in retail and manufacturing.
The Chicago region posted record job numbers in November despite ongoing federal policy uncertainties that challenge Illinois workers and businesses.