Washington County Has Lowest Jobless Rate in State

Washington County had the lowest unemployment rate in the state in August, according to data from the Illinois Department of Employment Security.

Though not seasonally adjusted, the unemployment rate for Washington County was 2.3 percent. The statewide rate for August was 3.8 percent, equal to the national jobless rate.

The rate in Washington County was the lowest it has been this summer. In June, the jobless rate stood at 2.5 percent and nudged up to 2.7 percent in July. In August of last year, the rate was 3.0 percent.

Among surrounding counties, Clinton County was next lowest at 2.7 percent. St. Clair, Jefferson, Perry and Marion counties all had rates over 4.0 percent.