Illinois reports drop in construction jobs over past 12 months

Chicago Construction News staff writer

Illinois experienced a significant drop in construction employment from October 2023 to October 2024, losing 2,700 jobs, or a 1.1 percent decrease. This loss placed Illinois among the states with the most substantial declines in the construction sector during this period. While construction employment increased in 23 states and the District of Columbia, Illinois was one of several states facing a setback due to ongoing workforce shortages.

The largest monthly losses occurred in Indiana, which saw a 2.0 percent drop (-3,400 jobs), followed by California (-2,800 jobs) and Illinois (-2,700 jobs). Indiana, in particular, recorded the highest percentage loss for the year, while California and Illinois also experienced notable reductions. These figures underscore the broader challenges many states are facing in the construction industry, despite growth in other regions.

In contrast, Florida led the nation with the largest numerical increase in construction jobs, adding 28,700 jobs or a 4.5 percent gain over the year. Other states showing significant growth in construction employment during this period included Texas (32,200 jobs, 3.9 percent), Ohio (15,400 jobs, 6.4 percent), and Michigan (14,800 jobs, 7.8 percent). Alaska recorded the highest percentage gain, with a 20.3 percent increase (3,600 jobs), followed by Hawaii (7.8 percent, 3,000 jobs) and Michigan (7.8 percent, 14,800 jobs).

The report highlights the disparities between states, with some experiencing strong growth in construction jobs, while others like Illinois struggled to maintain momentum. Nationally, 41 states and the District of Columbia saw construction employment increase from October 2023 to October 2024, while nine states—including Illinois—lost jobs during that period.

Illinois’ decline in construction jobs reflects broader workforce challenges facing the state and the country. Despite steady overall demand for construction workers in key sectors such as infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing, the lack of qualified workers continues to hinder job growth in Illinois and other states. This issue has made it difficult for contractors to fully capitalize on opportunities for expansion.

Nationally, California recorded the largest loss of construction jobs over the past year, shedding 11,500 jobs (1.2 percent), followed by New York (-4,100 jobs), and Maryland (-3,700 jobs). These states, along with Illinois, are grappling with workforce and economic challenges that are slowing construction sector growth.

In contrast, states like Texas and Florida saw robust growth, with Texas adding 32,200 jobs (3.9 percent) and Florida experiencing the largest numerical increase of 28,700 jobs (4.5 percent). The largest percentage gain occurred in Alaska, which saw a 20.3 percent increase, followed by Hawaii (7.8 percent), Michigan (7.8 percent), and Ohio (6.4 percent).

As the construction industry continues to grow in many parts of the country, industry leaders are calling for targeted workforce solutions to address these gaps. They stress the importance of workforce authorizations and training programs to ensure contractors can access skilled labor and meet the increasing demand for construction projects across the nation.