Physician Assistant Salary in Illinois
The median physician assistant salary in Illinois is $122,230 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $126,010.
Physician Assistant Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #23 out of 50 states for physician assistant compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for physician assistant pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $122,230 per year, physician assistants in Illinois earn $3,780 less than the national median of $126,010.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning physician assistant salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: physician assistants at the 10th percentile earn $81,480, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $168,780 — a $87,300 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 $138,611.
Nationally, physician assistant employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Illinois and beyond.
Physician Assistant Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level physician assistant earns around $85,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $157,140 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 | $81,480 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,820 |
| Median (50th) | $122,230 |
| 75th Percentile | $146,470 |
| 90th Percentile | $168,780 |
Physician Assistant Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for physician assistants in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Physician Assistant in Illinois
Education
Most physician assistant positions require a master's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, physician assistant employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Physician Assistants who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $34,910 over your career trajectory.
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