Editor Salary in Illinois
The median editor salary in Illinois is $69,426 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $73,080.
Editor Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for editor compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for editor pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $69,426 per year, editors in Illinois earn $3,654 less than the national median of $73,080.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning editor salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: editors at the 10th percentile earn $38,000, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $125,400 — a $87,400 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 $78,926.
Nationally, editor employment is projected to grow -5% over the next decade (decline). Despite slower growth nationally, experienced editors with in-demand specializations continue to command strong salaries.
Editor Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level editor earns around $39,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $118,750 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 | $38,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $50,350 |
| Median (50th) | $69,426 |
| 75th Percentile | $93,100 |
| 90th Percentile | $125,400 |
Editor Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for editors in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Editor in Illinois
Education
Most editor positions require a bachelor's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, editor employment is projected to grow -5% over the next decade (decline). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Editors who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $49,324 over your career trajectory.
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