Unemployment Decreased In All 18 Counties In May

Unemployment decreased in all 18 counties in South Central Illinois in May when compared with one year ago. Workforce conditions have continued to gradually improve during the year. The data is not seasonlly adjusted.

Over the year, employment gains were reported in manufacturing, professional-business services and health care. Season payroll advances occured in leisure-hospitality and other services this spring. Construction activity remained at high levels as favorable weather conditions prevailed in May. Government payrolls continued to decline throughout the region.

Numerous employment opportunities in May 2015 were advertised in healthcare and transportation. Job openings also were reported in office and administrative support, sales, management and production occupations. Employment opportutnities included jobs in computer services, engineering, food services and installation, maintenance and repair occupations.

The unemployemnt rate identifies those who are out of work and seeking employment. A person who exhausts benefits or is ineligible, still will be reflected in the unemployment rate if they actively seek work.

Effingham Area --

Clay County -- 5.9% May 2015, 7.6% May 2014

Crawford County -- 5.0% May 2015, 6.4% May 2014

Effingham County -- 4.1% May 2015, 5.1% May 2014

Fayette County -- 5.5% May 2015, 7.3% May 2014

Jasper County -- 4.9% May 2015, 6.0"% May 2014

Cumberland County -- 4.3% May 2015, 5.5% May 2014

Shelby County -- 5.0% May 2015, 6.3% May 2014

Clark County -- 5.3% May 2015, 6.7% May 2014

Coles County -- 5.5% May 2015, 6.7% May 2014

Douglas County -- 4.1% May 2015, 5.5% May 2014

Edgar County -- 5.2% May 2015, 6.6% May 2014