Unemployment rates climbed across southern Illinois in January, with several counties experiencing significant year-over-year increases, according to the latest state labor statistics. Wayne County reported a 5.2 percent unemployment rate in January 2026, up from 4.2 percent the previous year. Edwards County saw its rate rise to 5.6 percent from 4.1 percent. Lawrence County also recorded a 5.6 percent rate, compared to 4.4 percent a year ago. Both Richland and Wabash Counties matched each other at 4.1 percent, up from 3.5 percent in January 2025. These two counties currently share the lowest unemployment rates in the region. At the other end of the spectrum, Pulaski County posted the highest unemployment rate in southern Illinois at 7.2 percent. Statewide, Illinois recorded a 5.4 percent unemployment rate for January. The region’s job market continues to face challenges. The largest job losses were reported in manufacturing, which shed 200 positions compared to last year. Private education and health services, as well as trade, transportation, and utilities, each lost 150 jobs. Government employment dropped by 125 jobs, and smaller declines were seen in leisure and hospitality, professional and business services, and other services. Some sectors remained stable over the year, including construction, financial activities, information, and natural resources and mining. The Olney–Mount Carmel area was hit especially hard, with total nonfarm payrolls decreasing by 725 jobs since January 2025. No sector in the area reported any job gains over the past year. The data reflects ongoing economic challenges in southern Illinois, as local communities continue to grapple with rising unemployment and shrinking job opportunities.