Crane and Tower Operators in Illinois
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Illinois | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $53,240 | $66,370 | -19.8% vs US |
| State Rank | #48 of 52 states | ||
| Employment | 1,100 jobs | 42,000 jobs | 2.6% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Illinois
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $40,150 | $19.30 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,550 | $21.42 |
| Median | $53,240 | $25.60 |
| 75th Percentile | $97,100 | $46.68 |
| 90th Percentile | $137,150 | $65.94 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Crane and Tower Operators in Illinois in 2026?
With a median salary of $53,240 in Illinois and a 2014–2024 salary trend of -6.1%, crane and tower operators remain an established career option.
How can crane and tower operators increase their salary in Illinois?
Crane and Tower Operators 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 #48 out of 52 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 Crane and Tower Operators in Illinois?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Natural Gas Distribution | $135,480 |
| Natural Gas Distribution | $135,480 |
| Petroleum and Coal Products Manufacturing | $107,120 |
How are Crane and Tower Operators paid in Illinois compared to the national average?
The median salary for Crane and Tower Operators in Illinois is $53,240, which is 19.8% below the national median of $66,370.