Stephenson County reports job opportunities amid 4.7% unemployment in Freeport

During the recent Stephenson County Planning & Development Committee meeting, a significant focus was placed on the local job market, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for residents. The unemployment rate in Stephenson County stands at 4.5%, with Freeport slightly higher at 4.7%. This translates to 928 individuals in the county and 490 in Freeport actively seeking employment.

Despite the unemployment figures, the job market shows promise, with 807 unique job postings reported in March 2025. This indicates a substantial number of available positions relative to those seeking work. The data, provided by the Illinois Department of Employment Security, reveals that 228 employers are currently looking to fill roles, with a median advertised salary of over $26 per hour, suggesting competitive wages in the area.

Key sectors driving job opportunities include healthcare and manufacturing, with registered nurses and manufacturing machine operators topping the list of in-demand positions. Notable employers in the region include Freeport School District, Honeywell, and Freeport Health Network.

While the county does not maintain a job posting listing on its website, it offers resources linking to the Illinois Department of Employment Security and various staffing agencies. Community members are encouraged to share these resources with those seeking employment, emphasizing the availability of job opportunities in Stephenson County. The committee's discussions underscore the importance of addressing unemployment while promoting the region's job market potential.