Speech-Language Pathologists in Illinois
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Illinois | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $82,480 | $95,410 | -13.6% vs US |
| State Rank | #34 of 52 states | ||
| Employment | 9,100 jobs | 178,790 jobs | 5.1% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Illinois
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $54,750 | $26.32 |
| 25th Percentile | $69,220 | $33.28 |
| Median | $82,480 | $39.66 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,480 | $50.71 |
| 90th Percentile | $120,850 | $58.10 |
Related Links
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Speech-Language Pathologists in Illinois in 2026?
With a median salary of $82,480 in Illinois and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +18.9%, speech-language pathologists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can speech-language pathologists increase their salary in Illinois?
Speech-Language Pathologists 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 #34 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 Speech-Language Pathologists in Illinois?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Social Advocacy Organizations | $133,900 |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $120,260 |
| Specialty (except Psychiatric and Substance Abuse) Hospitals | $119,000 |
How are Speech-Language Pathologists paid in Illinois compared to the national average?
The median salary for Speech-Language Pathologists in Illinois is $82,480, which is 13.6% below the national median of $95,410.