Respiratory Therapist Salary in Illinois (2026)
Illinois · 5.0% above national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago | $85,942 | +12.0% | High |
| Aurora | $78,269 | +2.0% | High |
Illinois is home to a strong job market for Respiratory Therapists. The state's key industries — Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $76,734 per year, Illinois's Respiratory Therapist 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 $55,512–$65,714, while experienced Respiratory Therapists can command $88,668–$95,653.
Looking ahead, the Respiratory Therapist profession in Illinois is projected to grow at 4.0% 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 Respiratory Therapist salary in Illinois?The average Respiratory Therapist salary in Illinois is $76,734 per year in 2026, which is 5.0% above the national average of $73,080.
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What city in Illinois pays Respiratory Therapists the most?Major metro areas typically pay Respiratory Therapists 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 Respiratory Therapists?Illinois has a strong job market with major industries in Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Respiratory Therapist employment.
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How does Illinois Respiratory Therapist salary compare to the US average?At $76,734/year, Illinois Respiratory Therapist salaries are 5.0% higher than the national average of $73,080/year.