Network Engineer Salary in Illinois
The median network engineer salary in Illinois is $92,000 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median of $92,000.
Network Engineer Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #18 out of 50 states for network engineer compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for network engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $92,000 per year, network engineers in Illinois earn $0 more than the national median of $92,000.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning network engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: network engineers at the 10th percentile earn $56,000, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $145,000 — a $89,000 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 $103,960.
Nationally, network engineer employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for network engineers across the country.
Network Engineer Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level network engineer earns around $60,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $138,000 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 | $56,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $74,000 |
| Median (50th) | $92,000 |
| 75th Percentile | $118,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $145,000 |
Network Engineer Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for network 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 Network Engineer in Illinois
Education
Most network engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, network engineer employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Network Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $46,000 over your career trajectory.
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