Respiratory Therapists in Illinois
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Illinois | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $81,310 | $80,450 | +1.1% vs US |
| State Rank | #18 of 52 states | Top 20 state | |
| Employment | 5,450 jobs | 136,420 jobs | 4.0% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Illinois
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $63,430 | $30.50 |
| 25th Percentile | $74,480 | $35.81 |
| Median | $81,310 | $39.09 |
| 75th Percentile | $92,260 | $44.36 |
| 90th Percentile | $97,310 | $46.79 |
Related Links
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Respiratory Therapists in Illinois in 2026?
With a median salary of $81,310 in Illinois and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +47.9%, respiratory therapists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can respiratory therapists increase their salary in Illinois?
Respiratory Therapists 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 #18 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 Respiratory Therapists in Illinois?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Outpatient Care Centers | $122,210 |
| Offices of All Other Health Practitioners | $101,070 |
| Temporary Help Services | $99,880 |
How are Respiratory Therapists paid in Illinois compared to the national average?
The median salary for Respiratory Therapists in Illinois is $81,310, which is roughly in line with the national median of $80,450.