Materials Scientist Salary in Illinois (2026)
Illinois · 5.0% above national average · Medium Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago | $120,281 | +12.0% | Medium |
| Aurora | $109,542 | +2.0% | Medium |
Illinois is home to a strong job market for Materials Scientists. The state's key industries — Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $107,394 per year, Illinois's Materials 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 $66,706–$88,756, while experienced Materials Scientists can command $138,369–$157,728.
Looking ahead, the Materials Scientist profession in Illinois is projected to grow at 3.0% 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 Materials Scientist salary in Illinois?The average Materials Scientist salary in Illinois is $107,394 per year in 2026, which is 5.0% above the national average of $102,280.
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What city in Illinois pays Materials Scientists the most?Major metro areas typically pay Materials 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 Materials Scientists?Illinois has a strong job market with major industries in Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Materials Scientist employment.
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How does Illinois Materials Scientist salary compare to the US average?At $107,394/year, Illinois Materials Scientist salaries are 5.0% higher than the national average of $102,280/year.