Librarian Salary in Illinois
The median librarian salary in Illinois is $58,131 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $61,190.
Librarian Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for librarian compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for librarian pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $58,131 per year, librarians in Illinois earn $3,059 less than the national median of $61,190.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning librarian salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: librarians at the 10th percentile earn $37,240, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $91,770 — a $54,530 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 $66,085.
Nationally, librarian employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for librarians across the country.
Librarian Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level librarian earns around $39,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $83,600 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 | $37,240 |
| 25th Percentile | $46,550 |
| Median (50th) | $58,131 |
| 75th Percentile | $73,340 |
| 90th Percentile | $91,770 |
Librarian Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for librarians in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Librarian in Illinois
Education
Most librarian positions require a master's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, librarian employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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