CHICAGO (AP) - Illinois' unemployment rate has hit its highest level since August 1983.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security says the state's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 11 percent in October. That's up from 10.5 percent in September, and it compares to a rate of 6.8 percent in October of 2008.

Illinois is still losing jobs - but at a slower rate. State officials say non-farm employment recorded 3,200 fewer jobs in October. It was the 21st consecutive monthly loss.

Employment Security Director Maureen O'Donnell says the slowing pace of job losses is a reason for optimism, but she says that's little comfort to people looking for work.