Aerospace Engineer Salary in Illinois
The median aerospace engineer salary in Illinois is $120,536 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $126,880.
Aerospace Engineer Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for aerospace engineer compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for aerospace engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $120,536 per year, aerospace engineers in Illinois earn $6,344 less than the national median of $126,880.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning aerospace engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: aerospace engineers at the 10th percentile earn $74,100, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $182,400 — a $108,300 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 $137,030.
Nationally, aerospace engineer employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for aerospace engineers across the country.
Aerospace Engineer Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level aerospace engineer earns around $76,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $175,750 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Illinois
| Percentile | IL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $74,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $95,000 |
| Median (50th) | $120,536 |
| 75th Percentile | $152,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $182,400 |
Aerospace Engineer Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for aerospace engineers in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Aerospace Engineer in Illinois
Education
Most aerospace engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, aerospace engineer employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Aerospace Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $55,214 over your career trajectory.
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