Teacher (K-12) Salary in Illinois
The median teacher (k-12) salary in Illinois is $58,606 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $61,690.
Teacher (K-12) Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for teacher (k-12) compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for teacher (k-12) pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $58,606 per year, teacher (k-12)s in Illinois earn $3,084 less than the national median of $61,690.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning teacher (k-12) salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: teacher (k-12)s at the 10th percentile earn $39,330, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $95,950 — a $56,620 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 $66,625.
Nationally, teacher (k-12) employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for teacher (k-12)s across the country.
Teacher (K-12) Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level teacher (k-12) earns around $39,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $87,400 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 | $39,330 |
| 25th Percentile | $46,360 |
| Median (50th) | $58,606 |
| 75th Percentile | $75,240 |
| 90th Percentile | $95,950 |
Teacher (K-12) Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for teacher (k-12)s in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Teacher (K-12) in Illinois
Education
Most teacher (k-12) positions require a bachelor's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, teacher (k-12) 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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