Registered Nurse Salary in Illinois (2026)
Illinois · 5.0% above national average · Very High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago | $115,754 | +12.0% | Very High |
| Aurora | $105,419 | +2.0% | Very High |
Illinois is home to a strong job market for Registered Nurses. The state's key industries — Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $103,352 per year, Illinois's Registered Nurse 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 $67,980–$82,273, while experienced Registered Nurses can command $114,431–$125,000.
Looking ahead, the Registered Nurse 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 Registered Nurse salary in Illinois?The average Registered Nurse salary in Illinois is $103,352 per year in 2026, which is 5.0% above the national average of $98,430.
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What city in Illinois pays Registered Nurses the most?Major metro areas typically pay Registered Nurses 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 Registered Nurses?Illinois has a strong job market with major industries in Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Registered Nurse employment.
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How does Illinois Registered Nurse salary compare to the US average?At $103,352/year, Illinois Registered Nurse salaries are 5.0% higher than the national average of $98,430/year.