Park Ranger Salary in Illinois
The median park ranger salary in Illinois is $40,375 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $42,500.
Park Ranger Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for park ranger compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for park ranger pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $40,375 per year, park rangers in Illinois earn $2,125 less than the national median of $42,500.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning park ranger salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: park rangers at the 10th percentile earn $26,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $68,400 — a $41,800 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 $45,900.
Nationally, park ranger employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for park rangers across the country.
Park Ranger Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level park ranger earns around $28,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $64,600 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 | $26,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $32,300 |
| Median (50th) | $40,375 |
| 75th Percentile | $55,100 |
| 90th Percentile | $68,400 |
Park Ranger Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for park rangers in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Park Ranger in Illinois
Education
Most park ranger positions require a bachelor's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, park ranger 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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