East Central Reporter

39.7 percent of Coles County residents between 16 and 65 years old were unemployed in 2017, according to data obtained from the U.S. Census Bureau.

The percentage of unemployed residents was greater than the statewide total of 34.7 percent for this demographic group. In 2017 the total Coles County population reached 44,229.

Out of 26,677 people who had a job, 17 were employed in the Armed Forces and 26,660 belonged to the civilian labor force.

The total unemployment numbers include residents of all ages who are not working.

Employment status	Number of people	Percentage of population
Not employed	17,552	39.7
Employed	26,677	60.3
Employed in civilian labor force	26,660	60.3
Employed in armed forces	17	0.04