Nuclear Engineer Salary in Illinois
The median nuclear engineer salary in Illinois is $114,361 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $120,380.
Nuclear Engineer Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for nuclear engineer compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for nuclear engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $114,361 per year, nuclear engineers in Illinois earn $6,019 less than the national median of $120,380.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning nuclear engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: nuclear engineers at the 10th percentile earn $72,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $169,100 — a $96,900 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 $130,010.
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for nuclear engineers across the country.
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level nuclear engineer earns around $74,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $163,400 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 | $72,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $91,200 |
| Median (50th) | $114,361 |
| 75th Percentile | $140,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $169,100 |
Nuclear Engineer Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for nuclear 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 Nuclear Engineer in Illinois
Education
Most nuclear engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, nuclear 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.
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Data shows Nuclear Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $49,039 over your career trajectory.
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