Understanding salary trends is essential whether you’re a job seeker, career changer, or simply planning your future. In 2025, Illinois continues to offer competitive wages across sectors, with some positions seeing notable increases due to demand, experience, and qualifications.
This guide breaks down the average salaries, key factors influencing income, job outlook, and how certifications and education impact earnings in Illinois.
📊 Average Salary in Illinois (2025)
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Statewide average salary: $62,500 per year
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Median hourly wage: $30.05
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Top 10% earners: Over $100,000 annually
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Entry-level average: Around $36,000 – $42,000
These numbers vary significantly depending on location, industry, role, and education.
🧩 Key Factors That Influence Salary
Several factors shape the earning potential in Illinois:
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Experience level – More years in the field often lead to higher pay.
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Industry – Tech, healthcare, and finance pay more than retail or service sectors.
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Education and certifications – Advanced degrees or industry-specific certifications can boost salary.
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Job role – Specialized and leadership roles naturally offer higher compensation.
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Location – Urban centers like Chicago and Naperville offer higher salaries than rural areas.
💼 Salary by Job Title and Experience
Here’s a quick breakdown of salary expectations for popular roles across Illinois in 2025:
| Job Title | Entry-Level Salary | Mid-Level Salary | Senior-Level Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developer | $70,000 | $95,000 | $125,000 |
| Registered Nurse | $60,000 | $78,000 | $95,000 |
| State Government Employee | $50,000 | $65,000 | $85,000 |
| Peloton Instructor (Est.) | $85,000 | $103,000 | $120,000+ |
| SAP Consultant | $78,000 | $95,000 | $115,000+ |
| Senior Lead Navigator (Auxano) | $67,000 | $83,000 | $98,000 |
🏠 What’s the Take-Home Pay for a $103K Salary?
Assuming a $103,000 annual salary in Illinois:
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Federal tax: ~$18,000
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Illinois state tax: ~$3,000
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Social Security + Medicare: ~$7,800
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Take-home pay: ~$74,000 annually (~$6,166/month)
Note: This can vary slightly depending on deductions, benefits, and filing status.
📈 Job Market Trends in Illinois (2025)
The job market in Illinois has seen recovery and growth in key areas:
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Tech and remote jobs remain strong due to digital expansion.
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Healthcare roles, especially RNs and CNAs, are in demand post-pandemic.
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Logistics and manufacturing are growing in southern and central Illinois.
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Public sector and education roles are offering better pay due to union negotiations and increased budgets.
🎓 Certifications & Education That Boost Salary
Investing in education and certifications can directly impact your salary:
In-Demand Certifications:
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PMP (Project Management Professional)
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AWS Certified Solutions Architect
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Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
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Registered Nurse (RN) License
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SAP Certifications
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ITIL & CompTIA (for IT roles)
Educational Advantages:
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Bachelor’s Degree = Standard entry requirement for most mid-level jobs.
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Master’s Degree or MBA = Often leads to leadership roles and 20–30% higher salaries.
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Trade school & associate degrees = High ROI for roles in plumbing, HVAC, and healthcare support.
🌟 Job Outlook and Career Growth
The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) projects:
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5% job growth across all sectors by 2027
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High-growth industries: healthcare, clean energy, tech, and logistics
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Government roles to become more competitive due to better benefits and hybrid work options
✅ Benefits of Working in Illinois
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Strong public employee unions
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Affordable cost of living outside Chicago
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Hybrid and remote job flexibility
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Diverse job market
Conclusion
Illinois offers solid salary potential in 2025, particularly for those with the right mix of education, certifications, and experience. Whether you’re starting out, upskilling, or transitioning careers, staying informed about salary trends and market needs gives you a powerful advantage.