Agriculture & Environment Illinois (IL) Rank #24 of 50

Forester Salary in Illinois

The median forester salary in Illinois is $60,601 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $63,790.

Median Salary

$60,601

vs National

$-3,189

State Rank

#24 of 50

Cost of Living

95%

Forester Salary in Illinois by Experience

In Illinois, an entry-level forester earns around $41,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $90,250 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$41,800

$-2,200 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$61,750

$-3,250 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$90,250

$-4,750 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Illinois

Percentile	IL Salary	National	Difference
10th Percentile	$39,900	$42,000	$-2,100
25th Percentile	$48,450	$51,000	$-2,550
Median (50th)	$60,601	$63,790	$-3,189
75th Percentile	$77,900	$82,000	$-4,100
90th Percentile	$96,900	$102,000	$-5,100

Forester Salary by City in Illinois

The largest employment areas for foresters in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

Chicago, IL

$68,255

Pop. 2,693,976 · COL 107%

Aurora, IL

$60,601

Pop. 197,757 · COL 95%

Naperville, IL

$68,893

Pop. 149,540 · COL 108%

Rockford, IL

$52,308

Pop. 148,655 · COL 82%

Springfield, IL

$54,222

Pop. 114,394 · COL 85%

How to Become a Forester in Illinois

Education

Most forester positions require a bachelor's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Forest ManagementGIS/GPSTimber CruisingEcologyFire ManagementEnvironmental Law

Job Outlook in Illinois

Nationally, forester employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.