Automotive & Maintenance Illinois (IL) Rank #24 of 50

Aircraft Mechanic Salary in Illinois

The median aircraft mechanic salary in Illinois is $62,273 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $65,550.

Median Salary
$62,273
vs National
$-3,277
State Rank
#24 of 50
Cost of Living
95%

Aircraft Mechanic Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)

Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for aircraft mechanic compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for aircraft mechanic pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $62,273 per year, aircraft mechanics in Illinois earn $3,277 less than the national median of $65,550.

Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning aircraft mechanic salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Illinois is significant: aircraft mechanics at the 10th percentile earn $39,900, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $95,950 — a $56,050 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 $70,794.

Nationally, aircraft mechanic employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for aircraft mechanics across the country.

Aircraft Mechanic Salary in Illinois by Experience

In Illinois, an entry-level aircraft mechanic earns around $41,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $91,200 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$41,800
$-2,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$63,650
$-3,350 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$91,200
$-4,800 vs national

Build Wealth on Your Income

With a $62,273 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.

See Investment Options →

Salary Percentiles in Illinois

Percentile IL Salary
10th Percentile $39,900
25th Percentile $49,400
Median (50th) $62,273
75th Percentile $79,800
90th Percentile $95,950

Aircraft Mechanic Salary by City in Illinois

The largest employment areas for aircraft mechanics in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Aircraft Mechanic in Illinois

Education

Most aircraft mechanic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Aircraft SystemsA&P CertificationFAA RegulationsAvionicsTroubleshootingSafety Protocols

Job Outlook in Illinois

Nationally, aircraft mechanic employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Stand Out from the Competition

85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 159,600 other Aircraft Mechanics.

Get a Professional Resume →

Open to Aircraft Mechanic Roles in Illinois?

Get matched with recruiters hiring aircraft mechanics in Illinois at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Aircraft Mechanic Salary in Illinois

How much does a Aircraft Mechanic make in Illinois? ▼
The median aircraft mechanic salary in Illinois is $62,273 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $65,550. Salaries range from $39,900 (10th percentile) to $95,950 (90th percentile).
How much does a Aircraft Mechanic make per hour in Illinois? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $62,273, a aircraft mechanic in Illinois earns approximately $30 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Illinois a good state for aircraft mechanics? ▼
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for aircraft mechanic pay. The cost of living index is 95% of the national average. Entry-level aircraft mechanics earn $41,800, while senior professionals earn $91,200.
How does Illinois compare to other states for aircraft mechanic salary? ▼
The highest paying state for aircraft mechanics is Hawaii at $111,435. Illinois's median of $62,273 ranks #24 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Utah ($63,584) and Pennsylvania ($62,928).
What is the entry-level aircraft mechanic salary in Illinois? ▼
An entry-level aircraft mechanic in Illinois earns approximately $41,800 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $63,650. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $91,200.
What city in Illinois pays aircraft mechanics the most? ▼
Naperville is the highest paying city in Illinois for aircraft mechanics, with a median salary of $70,794. Other cities include Chicago and Aurora.