Human Resources Manager Salary in Illinois
The median human resources manager salary in Illinois is $131,300 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $130,000.
Human Resources Manager Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #16 out of 50 states for human resources manager compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for human resources manager pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $131,300 per year, human resources managers in Illinois earn $1,300 more than the national median of $130,000.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning human resources manager salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: human resources managers at the 10th percentile earn $78,982, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $210,080 — a $131,098 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 $148,200.
Nationally, human resources manager employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for human resources managers across the country.
Human Resources Manager Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level human resources manager earns around $65,650, while experienced professionals earn up to $166,650 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Illinois
| Percentile | IL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $78,982 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,010 |
| Median (50th) | $131,300 |
| 75th Percentile | $168,670 |
| 90th Percentile | $210,080 |
Human Resources Manager Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for human resources managers in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Human Resources Manager in Illinois
Education
Most human resources manager positions require a bachelor's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, human resources manager employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Human Resources Managers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $35,350 over your career trajectory.
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