Truck Driver Salary in Illinois
The median truck driver salary in Illinois is $47,424 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $49,920.
Truck Driver Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #28 out of 50 states for truck driver compensation. Truck Driver salaries in Illinois are below the national median, though the higher cost of living makes this gap more significant. At $47,424 per year, truck drivers in Illinois earn $2,496 less than the national median of $49,920.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning truck driver salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: truck drivers at the 10th percentile earn $31,540, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $74,100 — a $42,560 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 $53,914.
Nationally, truck driver employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for truck drivers across the country.
Truck Driver Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level truck driver earns around $33,250, while experienced professionals earn up to $68,400 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 | $31,540 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,190 |
| Median (50th) | $47,424 |
| 75th Percentile | $60,610 |
| 90th Percentile | $74,100 |
Truck Driver Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for truck drivers in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Truck Driver in Illinois
Education
Most truck driver positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, truck driver employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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