November Jobless Rates Down from 2013

Unemployment rates were down throughout south central Illinois in November when compared to the same month in 2013.

The Effingham County rate was 5.5%, compared to 7.2% in November 2013. 

The Illinois Department of Employment Security reported workforce conditions stabilized in the fall throughout the region. Construction activity on roads, schools and commercial projects continued, while retalers and food services hired temporary and part time workers for the holiday season. Seasonal employment increases occurred in wholesale trade and transportation. Payrolls continued at elevated levels in health services. Several area manufacturers added production workers.

Employment opportunities in the fall were available in healthcare, 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. Also, there were a number of job openings for social service positions and installation, maintenance and repair occupations.

Area counties and their jobless rates for November:

Coles--6%, down from 8.4%

Cumberland--6.6%, down from 8.8%

Shelby--6.6%, down from 9.3%

Clay--8.3%, down from 10.7%

Fayette--7.6%, down from 11%

Jasper--6.4%, down from 8.7%