Data Scientists in Illinois
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Illinois | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $113,490 | $112,590 | +0.8% vs US |
| State Rank | #15 of 51 states | Top 20 state | |
| Employment | 7,390 jobs | 233,440 jobs | 3.2% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Illinois
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $65,420 | $31.45 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,010 | $39.43 |
| Median | $113,490 | $54.56 |
| 75th Percentile | $147,130 | $70.74 |
| 90th Percentile | $172,220 | $82.80 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Data Scientists in Illinois in 2026?
With a median salary of $113,490 in Illinois and a 2021–2024 salary trend of +13.8%, data scientists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can data scientists increase their salary in Illinois?
Data Scientists 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 #15 out of 51 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 Data Scientists in Illinois?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Transit and Ground Passenger Transportation | $206,170 |
| Transit and Ground Passenger Transportation | $206,170 |
| Taxi and Limousine Service | $206,170 |
How are Data Scientists paid in Illinois compared to the national average?
The median salary for Data Scientists in Illinois is $113,490, which is roughly in line with the national median of $112,590.