County Jobless Rate Up in January from One Year Earlier

The January unemployment rate for Effingham County was higher in January compared to one year earlier.

The January jobless rate was 9.1%, up from 8.3% in January 2012.

Area counties also saw higher jobless rates than one year earlier.  Cumberland County was at 12.3%, slightly higher than 12% in January 2012; Shelby County was at 11.2%, up from 10.2% one year earlier; Clay County was at 12.9%, up from 12.1% in January 2012; Fayette County was at 12.7%, up from 12.1% one year earlier; and Jasper County was at 10.4%, up from 9.3% one year earlier.

Labor Market Economist Dennis Hoffman of the Illinois Department of Employment Security said mid-winter seasonal layoffs increased unemployment at the beginning of 2013 throughout south central Illinois. 

Hoffman said retailers and restaurants reduced payrolls after the Christmas season.  Weather-related layoffs pressured the construction and leisure/hospitality industries.  Government payrolls remained on a steady downward trend.  Employment in health services continued to expand.  Payroll advances also were reported in professional/business services and finance.  Numerous employment opportunities were available in health care and medical support, food services and sales.  Job openings were also noted in transportation, management and production occupations.