Project Manager Salary in Illinois
The median project manager salary in Illinois is $96,324 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $95,370.
Project Manager Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #16 out of 50 states for project manager compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for project manager pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $96,324 per year, project managers in Illinois earn $954 more than the national median of $95,370.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning project manager salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: project managers at the 10th percentile earn $56,762, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $160,691 — a $103,929 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 $108,722.
Nationally, project manager employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for project managers across the country.
Project Manager Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level project manager earns around $58,580, while experienced professionals earn up to $146,450 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 | $56,762 |
| 25th Percentile | $73,730 |
| Median (50th) | $96,324 |
| 75th Percentile | $127,260 |
| 90th Percentile | $160,691 |
Project Manager Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for project managers in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Project Manager in Illinois
Education
Most project manager positions require a bachelor's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, project manager employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Project Managers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $50,126 over your career trajectory.
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