Animal Trainers in Illinois
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Illinois | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $34,560 | $38,750 | -10.8% vs US |
| State Rank | #33 of 46 states | ||
| Employment | 550 jobs | 20,110 jobs | 2.7% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Illinois
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,650 | $14.25 |
| 25th Percentile | $30,310 | $14.57 |
| Median | $34,560 | $16.61 |
| 75th Percentile | $44,600 | $21.44 |
| 90th Percentile | $52,710 | $25.34 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Animal Trainers in Illinois in 2026?
With a median salary of $34,560 in Illinois and a 2015–2024 salary trend of +11.5%, animal trainers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can animal trainers increase their salary in Illinois?
Animal Trainers in Illinois can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: Illinois currently ranks #33 out of 46 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Animal Trainers in Illinois?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Motion Picture and Sound Recording Industries | $121,920 |
| Motion Picture and Sound Recording Industries | $121,920 |
| Motion Picture and Video Industries | $121,920 |
How are Animal Trainers paid in Illinois compared to the national average?
The median salary for Animal Trainers in Illinois is $34,560, which is 10.8% below the national median of $38,750.