The Mercer County unemployment rate at 6.4 percent, which is almost a full percent higher than the same period a year ago. The number is for March. Unemployment is also higher from year over year levels in Henderson, Henry, Knox, Rock Island and Warren counties, according to data from the Illinois Department of Employment Security. In the region, total nonfarm employment decreased by 8,200 compared to March 2020. Educational-Health Services, Leisure-Hospitality, Manufacturing, Government, and Professional-Business Services sectors recorded the largest employment declines compared to one year ago. The Construction sector reported payroll gains.
The Illinois unemployment rate is currently at 7.1 percent with the national rate at 6.2 percent.
