Sheet Metal Worker Salary in Illinois
The median sheet metal worker salary in Illinois is $52,583 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $55,350.
Sheet Metal Worker Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #28 out of 50 states for sheet metal worker compensation. Sheet Metal Worker salaries in Illinois are below the national median, though the higher cost of living makes this gap more significant. At $52,583 per year, sheet metal workers in Illinois earn $2,767 less than the national median of $55,350.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning sheet metal worker salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: sheet metal workers at the 10th percentile earn $32,300, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $81,700 — a $49,400 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 $59,778.
Nationally, sheet metal worker employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for sheet metal workers across the country.
Sheet Metal Worker Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level sheet metal worker earns around $34,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $77,900 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 | $32,300 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,900 |
| Median (50th) | $52,583 |
| 75th Percentile | $66,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $81,700 |
Sheet Metal Worker Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for sheet metal workers in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Sheet Metal Worker in Illinois
Education
Most sheet metal worker positions require a high school diploma + apprenticeship. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, sheet metal worker employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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