Jobless Rates in Area Much Lower Than Year Earlier

Unemployment rates in area counties took significant dips in September from one year earlier.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security said the Effingham County jobless rate in September was 5.4%, down from 7.0% one year earlier.

IDES said unemployment declined in all 18 counties in South Central Illinois from September 2013. 

Employment activity increased in the region. Construction activity on roads, schools and commercial projects continued on a significant pace. Payroll gains occurred in Retail Trade, Wholesale Trade and Transportation. In addition, employment remained at high levels in Health Services and Leisure/Hospitality. Several area manufacturers have added production workers.

Numerous employment opportunities in the fall were available in Health Care, Transportation and Sales. Job openings also were reported in Office and Administrative Support and Production occupations. Advertisements for employment included jobs in Business and Finance, Management, Computer Services and Food Preparation. There also were a number of job openings for Installation, Maintenance and Repair occupations.

Area counties and their September jobless rates: Coles--6%, down from 8.2%...Cumberland--6.2%, down from 8.5%...Shelby--6.2%, down from 8.6%...Clay--8.6%, down from 10.3%...Fayette--7.3%, down from 10.2%...and Jasper--6.3%, down from 7.8%.