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

Auto Mechanic Salary in Illinois

The median auto mechanic salary in Illinois is $44,641 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $46,990.

Median Salary
$44,641
vs National
$-2,349
State Rank
#24 of 50
Cost of Living
95%

Auto Mechanic Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)

Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for auto mechanic compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for auto mechanic pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $44,641 per year, auto mechanics in Illinois earn $2,349 less than the national median of $46,990.

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

The salary spread in Illinois is significant: auto mechanics at the 10th percentile earn $28,500, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $71,250 — a $42,750 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 $50,749.

Nationally, auto mechanic employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for auto mechanics across the country.

Auto Mechanic Salary in Illinois by Experience

In Illinois, an entry-level auto mechanic earns around $30,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $68,400 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$30,400
$-1,600 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$45,600
$-2,400 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$68,400
$-3,600 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Illinois

Percentile IL Salary
10th Percentile $28,500
25th Percentile $35,150
Median (50th) $44,641
75th Percentile $57,000
90th Percentile $71,250

Auto Mechanic Salary by City in Illinois

The largest employment areas for auto 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 Auto Mechanic in Illinois

Education

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

Key Skills

Automotive DiagnosticsEngine RepairBrake SystemsElectrical SystemsASE CertificationCustomer Service

Job Outlook in Illinois

Nationally, auto mechanic 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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Frequently Asked Questions: Auto Mechanic Salary in Illinois

How much does a Auto Mechanic make in Illinois? ▼
The median auto mechanic salary in Illinois is $44,641 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $46,990. Salaries range from $28,500 (10th percentile) to $71,250 (90th percentile).
How much does a Auto Mechanic make per hour in Illinois? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $44,641, a auto mechanic in Illinois earns approximately $21 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Illinois a good state for auto mechanics? ▼
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for auto mechanic pay. The cost of living index is 95% of the national average. Entry-level auto mechanics earn $30,400, while senior professionals earn $68,400.
How does Illinois compare to other states for auto mechanic salary? ▼
The highest paying state for auto mechanics is Hawaii at $79,883. Illinois's median of $44,641 ranks #24 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Utah ($45,580) and Pennsylvania ($45,110).
What is the entry-level auto mechanic salary in Illinois? ▼
An entry-level auto mechanic in Illinois earns approximately $30,400 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $45,600. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $68,400.
What city in Illinois pays auto mechanics the most? ▼
Naperville is the highest paying city in Illinois for auto mechanics, with a median salary of $50,749. Other cities include Chicago and Aurora.