Solar Installer Salary in Illinois
The median solar installer salary in Illinois is $45,287 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $47,670.
Solar Installer Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #28 out of 50 states for solar installer compensation. Solar Installer salaries in Illinois are below the national median, though the higher cost of living makes this gap more significant. At $45,287 per year, solar installers in Illinois earn $2,383 less than the national median of $47,670.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning solar installer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: solar installers at the 10th percentile earn $30,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $68,400 — a $38,000 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 $51,484.
Nationally, solar installer employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Illinois and beyond.
Solar Installer Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level solar installer earns around $32,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $64,600 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.
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Earning $45,287? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Illinois
| Percentile | IL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $36,100 |
| Median (50th) | $45,287 |
| 75th Percentile | $57,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $68,400 |
Solar Installer Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for solar installers in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Solar Installer in Illinois
Education
Most solar installer positions require a high school diploma. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, solar installer employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 35,700 other Solar Installers.
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