Airline Pilot Salary in Illinois (2026)
Illinois · 5.0% above national average · Very High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago | $249,066 | +12.0% | Very High |
| Aurora | $226,828 | +2.0% | Very High |
Illinois is home to a strong job market for Airline Pilots. The state's key industries — Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $222,380 per year, Illinois's Airline Pilot salaries are 5.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in Illinois (index: 1.05) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in Illinois can expect to earn $88,947–$123,097, while experienced Airline Pilots can command $199,935–$231,067.
Looking ahead, the Airline Pilot profession in Illinois is projected to grow at 4.5% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Finance continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Airline Pilot salary in Illinois?The average Airline Pilot salary in Illinois is $222,380 per year in 2026, which is 5.0% above the national average of $211,790.
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What city in Illinois pays Airline Pilots the most?Major metro areas typically pay Airline Pilots the highest wages in Illinois due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is Illinois a good state for Airline Pilots?Illinois has a strong job market with major industries in Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Airline Pilot employment.
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How does Illinois Airline Pilot salary compare to the US average?At $222,380/year, Illinois Airline Pilot salaries are 5.0% higher than the national average of $211,790/year.