Environmental Scientist Salary in Illinois (2026)
Illinois · 5.0% above national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago | $94,609 | +12.0% | High |
| Aurora | $86,161 | +2.0% | High |
Illinois is home to a strong job market for Environmental Scientists. The state's key industries — Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $84,472 per year, Illinois's Environmental Scientist 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 $53,080–$70,520, while experienced Environmental Scientists can command $109,761–$125,048.
Looking ahead, the Environmental Scientist profession in Illinois is projected to grow at 4.2% 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 Environmental Scientist salary in Illinois?The average Environmental Scientist salary in Illinois is $84,472 per year in 2026, which is 5.0% above the national average of $80,450.
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What city in Illinois pays Environmental Scientists the most?Major metro areas typically pay Environmental Scientists 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 Environmental Scientists?Illinois has a strong job market with major industries in Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Environmental Scientist employment.
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How does Illinois Environmental Scientist salary compare to the US average?At $84,472/year, Illinois Environmental Scientist salaries are 5.0% higher than the national average of $80,450/year.