Environmental Engineer Salary in Illinois
The median environmental engineer salary in Illinois is $91,979 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $96,820.
Environmental Engineer Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for environmental engineer compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for environmental engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $91,979 per year, environmental engineers in Illinois earn $4,841 less than the national median of $96,820.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning environmental engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: environmental engineers at the 10th percentile earn $57,950, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $140,600 — a $82,650 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 $104,566.
Nationally, environmental engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for environmental engineers across the country.
Environmental Engineer Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level environmental engineer earns around $60,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $134,900 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 | $57,950 |
| 25th Percentile | $72,200 |
| Median (50th) | $91,979 |
| 75th Percentile | $115,900 |
| 90th Percentile | $140,600 |
Environmental Engineer Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for environmental 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 Environmental Engineer in Illinois
Education
Most environmental engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, environmental engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Environmental Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $42,921 over your career trajectory.
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