Accountant Salary in Illinois
The median accountant salary in Illinois is $80,679 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $79,880.
Accountant Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #16 out of 50 states for accountant compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for accountant pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $80,679 per year, accountants in Illinois earn $799 more than the national median of $79,880.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning accountant salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: accountants at the 10th percentile earn $50,904, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $134,128 — a $83,224 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Illinois for this role is Naperville, where the median reaches $91,063.
Nationally, accountant employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for accountants across the country.
Accountant Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level accountant earns around $52,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $121,200 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Illinois
| Percentile | IL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $50,904 |
| 25th Percentile | $63,327 |
| Median (50th) | $80,679 |
| 75th Percentile | $103,424 |
| 90th Percentile | $134,128 |
Accountant Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for accountants in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Accountant in Illinois
Education
Most accountant positions require a bachelor's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, accountant employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Accountants who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $40,521 over your career trajectory.
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