Urban and Regional Planner Salary in Illinois (2026)
Illinois · 5.0% above national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago | $93,563 | +12.0% | High |
| Aurora | $85,209 | +2.0% | High |
Illinois is home to a strong job market for Urban and Regional Planners. The state's key industries — Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $83,538 per year, Illinois's Urban and Regional Planner 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 $54,039–$68,848, while experienced Urban and Regional Planners can command $102,169–$114,432.
Looking ahead, the Urban and Regional Planner profession in Illinois is projected to grow at 4.1% 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 Urban and Regional Planner salary in Illinois?The average Urban and Regional Planner salary in Illinois is $83,538 per year in 2026, which is 5.0% above the national average of $79,560.
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What city in Illinois pays Urban and Regional Planners the most?Major metro areas typically pay Urban and Regional Planners 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 Urban and Regional Planners?Illinois has a strong job market with major industries in Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Urban and Regional Planner employment.
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How does Illinois Urban and Regional Planner salary compare to the US average?At $83,538/year, Illinois Urban and Regional Planner salaries are 5.0% higher than the national average of $79,560/year.