Architect Salary in Illinois
The median architect salary in Illinois is $78,698 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $82,840.
Architect Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for architect compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for architect pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $78,698 per year, architects in Illinois earn $4,142 less than the national median of $82,840.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning architect salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: architects at the 10th percentile earn $47,500, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $140,600 — a $93,100 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 $89,467.
Nationally, architect employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for architects across the country.
Architect Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level architect earns around $49,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $133,000 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 | $47,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,800 |
| Median (50th) | $78,698 |
| 75th Percentile | $106,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $140,600 |
Architect Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for architects in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Architect in Illinois
Education
Most architect positions require a bachelor's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, architect employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Architects who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $54,302 over your career trajectory.
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