Healthcare Illinois (IL) Rank #23 of 50

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.

Median Salary

$78,783

vs National

$-2,437

State Rank

#23 of 50

Cost of Living

95%

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.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$56,260

$-1,740 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$79,540

$-2,460 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$111,550

$-3,450 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Illinois

Percentile	IL Salary	National	Difference
10th Percentile	$55,678	$57,400	$-1,722
25th Percentile	$64,796	$66,800	$-2,004
Median (50th)	$78,783	$81,220	$-2,437
75th Percentile	$98,067	$101,100	$-3,033
90th Percentile	$117,176	$120,800	$-3,624

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.

Chicago, IL

$88,530

Pop. 2,693,976 · COL 107%

Aurora, IL

$78,783

Pop. 197,757 · COL 95%

Naperville, IL

$89,342

Pop. 149,540 · COL 108%

Rockford, IL

$68,225

Pop. 148,655 · COL 82%

Springfield, IL

$70,661

Pop. 114,394 · COL 85%

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

Patient AssessmentMedication AdministrationCritical ThinkingCommunicationEMR SystemsBLS/ACLS

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.