Registered Nurses in Illinois
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Illinois | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,410 | $93,600 | -7.7% vs US |
| State Rank | #24 of 53 states | ||
| Employment | 139,900 jobs | 3,282,010 jobs | 4.3% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Illinois
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $64,930 | $31.22 |
| 25th Percentile | $79,150 | $38.05 |
| Median | $86,410 | $41.54 |
| 75th Percentile | $103,660 | $49.84 |
| 90th Percentile | $112,320 | $54.00 |
Related Links
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Registered Nurses in Illinois in 2026?
With a median salary of $86,410 in Illinois and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +30.8%, registered nurses are still in strong and growing demand.
How can registered nurses increase their salary in Illinois?
Registered Nurses 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 #24 out of 53 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 Registered Nurses in Illinois?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools | $130,800 |
| Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools | $130,800 |
| Computer Systems Design and Related Services | $120,120 |
How are Registered Nurses paid in Illinois compared to the national average?
The median salary for Registered Nurses in Illinois is $86,410, which is 7.7% below the national median of $93,600.