Improved Employment Rates Seen in April

Effingham County's unemployment rate dropped to 3.1% in April, down from 3.9% one year earlier.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security reported that total nonfarm employment in April increased by 1,400 compared to last year. 

Employment gains were posted in Leisure and Hospitality, Government, Construction, Educational and Health Services, Professional and Business Services, Manfacturing, and Financial Activities.

Employment declined in Trade, Transportation and Utilities and Information.

No change was reported in Natural Resources and Mining, or Other Services.

Other area counties and their April jobless rates: 

Coles--4.7%, down from 5%

Cumberland--3.5%, down from 4.1%

Shelby--4.1%, unchanged from one year earlier

Clay--4.9%, down from 5.4%

Fayette--4.7%, down from 5.1%

Jasper--3.7%, down from 4%

The statewide unemployment rate for April was 4.4%, down from 6.4% one year earlier.