Agriculture & Environment Illinois (IL) Rank #24 of 50

Zoologist Salary in Illinois

The median zoologist salary in Illinois is $64,819 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $68,230.

Median Salary

$64,819

vs National

$-3,411

State Rank

#24 of 50

Cost of Living

95%

Zoologist Salary in Illinois by Experience

In Illinois, an entry-level zoologist earns around $42,750, while experienced professionals earn up to $99,750 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$42,750

$-2,250 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$66,500

$-3,500 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$99,750

$-5,250 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Illinois

Percentile	IL Salary	National	Difference
10th Percentile	$39,900	$42,000	$-2,100
25th Percentile	$51,300	$54,000	$-2,700
Median (50th)	$64,819	$68,230	$-3,411
75th Percentile	$85,500	$90,000	$-4,500
90th Percentile	$106,400	$112,000	$-5,600

Zoologist Salary by City in Illinois

The largest employment areas for zoologists in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

Chicago, IL

$73,006

Pop. 2,693,976 · COL 107%

Aurora, IL

$64,819

Pop. 197,757 · COL 95%

Naperville, IL

$73,688

Pop. 149,540 · COL 108%

Rockford, IL

$55,949

Pop. 148,655 · COL 82%

Springfield, IL

$57,996

Pop. 114,394 · COL 85%

How to Become a Zoologist in Illinois

Education

Most zoologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Wildlife BiologyField ResearchData AnalysisGISScientific WritingConservation

Job Outlook in Illinois

Nationally, zoologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.