Registered Nurse Salary in Illinois
The median registered nurse salary in Illinois is $78,783 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #23 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for registered nurse pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $78,783 per year, registered nurses in Illinois earn $2,437 less than the national median of $81,220.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning registered nurse salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $55,678, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $117,176 — a $61,498 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 $89,342.
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for registered nurses across the country.
Registered Nurse Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $56,260, while experienced professionals earn up to $111,550 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 | $55,678 |
| 25th Percentile | $64,796 |
| Median (50th) | $78,783 |
| 75th Percentile | $98,067 |
| 90th Percentile | $117,176 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for registered nurses in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Illinois
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Registered Nurses who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $32,767 over your career trajectory.
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