Civil Engineer Salary in Illinois
The median civil engineer salary in Illinois is $85,443 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $89,940.
Civil Engineer Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for civil engineer compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for civil engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $85,443 per year, civil engineers in Illinois earn $4,497 less than the national median of $89,940.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning civil engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: civil engineers at the 10th percentile earn $57,380, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $131,670 — a $74,290 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 $97,135.
Nationally, civil engineer employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for civil engineers across the country.
Civil Engineer Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level civil engineer earns around $58,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $123,500 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 | $57,380 |
| 25th Percentile | $69,540 |
| Median (50th) | $85,443 |
| 75th Percentile | $108,300 |
| 90th Percentile | $131,670 |
Civil Engineer Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for civil 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 Civil Engineer in Illinois
Education
Most civil engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, civil engineer employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Civil Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $38,057 over your career trajectory.
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