EMT/Paramedic Salary in Illinois
The median emt/paramedic salary in Illinois is $36,984 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $38,930.
EMT/Paramedic Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for emt/paramedic compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for emt/paramedic pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $36,984 per year, emt/paramedics in Illinois earn $1,946 less than the national median of $38,930.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning emt/paramedic salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: emt/paramedics at the 10th percentile earn $24,700, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $58,900 — a $34,200 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 $42,044.
Nationally, emt/paramedic employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for emt/paramedics across the country.
EMT/Paramedic Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level emt/paramedic earns around $26,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $55,100 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Illinois
| Percentile | IL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $24,700 |
| 25th Percentile | $29,450 |
| Median (50th) | $36,984 |
| 75th Percentile | $47,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $58,900 |
EMT/Paramedic Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for emt/paramedics in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a EMT/Paramedic in Illinois
Education
Most emt/paramedic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, emt/paramedic employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
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