School Counselor Salary in Illinois
The median school counselor salary in Illinois is $57,133 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $60,140.
School Counselor Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for school counselor compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for school counselor pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $57,133 per year, school counselors in Illinois earn $3,007 less than the national median of $60,140.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning school counselor salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: school counselors at the 10th percentile earn $36,290, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $90,060 — a $53,770 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 $64,951.
Nationally, school counselor employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for school counselors across the country.
School Counselor Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level school counselor earns around $38,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,750 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 | $36,290 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,650 |
| Median (50th) | $57,133 |
| 75th Percentile | $72,390 |
| 90th Percentile | $90,060 |
School Counselor Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for school counselors in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a School Counselor in Illinois
Education
Most school counselor positions require a master's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, school counselor 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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