Unemployment rates in Elmhurst increased .5 percent from September to October, but they are still down .2 percent compared to this same time last year, according to new figures released last week. 

October local unemployment rates fell in every metro area compared to last year, according to data released by the U.S. Department of Labor and the Illinois Department of Employment Security.

Some are optimistic about the drop.

"Falling unemployment rates across our state and the lowest October rates since 2008 show that that our steady economic progress continues," IDES Director Jay Rowell said in a news release. "We now look to Congress to address the fiscal cliff. If not resolved, our future economic progress will be in jeopardy."

IDES generally reports unemployment figures for municipalities with populations of 25,000 or more. The numbers measure unemployment for residents who live in a certain town, not those who work in the town. 

Statewide, the unemployment rate increased from 8.1 percent in September 2012 to 8.4 percent in October. Compared to October 2011, unemployment in Illinois has dropped 1.2 percent. 

The U.S. average unemployment rate was 7.5 percent in October 2012. 

DUPAGE