Illinois’ job market outpaced the national average during August. But 13 of Illinois’ 15 metropolitan areas continued to have higher unemployment rates than the national average.
Published Sept. 26, 2024 Illinois is in the midst of a housing affordability crisis. Over a third of residents are considered “burdened” by housing costs, meaning they pay over 30% of their income on costs related to housing. That is a greater portion of residents burdened by housing than any other state in the Midwest....
The Fed just cut interest rates over worries about the national jobs outlook, but in Illinois unemployment has been a persistent problem. Tax and state economic policy should get much of the blame.
Real-world outcomes for Illinoisans have dropped since Gov. J.B. Pritzker took office. The nation’s Democrats need to see where he’s taken Illinois before following his lead.
Despite some growth, high unemployment remains a persistent issue in Illinois with 13 of 15 metropolitan areas showing higher rates of unemployment than the national average.
Out of 90 Midwestern metropolitan areas, Illinois has four in the bottom 10 for new housing per capita in 2023. Housing affordability is directly linked to getting units built.
Illinois’ tax code stands in the way of the state’s economic competitiveness. The combination of high tax burdens and a poor tax structure contributes to the loss of jobs and investment to other states. From a place of former economic dominance, Illinois now ranks 45th in gross state product (GSP) growth over the past decade...