Waiters and Waitresses Salary in Illinois (2026)
Illinois · 5.0% above national average · Very High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago | $41,489 | +12.0% | Very High |
| Aurora | $37,785 | +2.0% | Very High |
Illinois is home to a strong job market for Waiters and Waitressess. The state's key industries — Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $37,044 per year, Illinois's Waiters and Waitresses 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 $26,124–$32,844, while experienced Waiters and Waitressess can command $47,964–$53,400.
Looking ahead, the Waiters and Waitresses 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.
-
What is the average Waiters and Waitresses salary in Illinois?The average Waiters and Waitresses salary in Illinois is $37,044 per year in 2026, which is 5.0% above the national average of $35,280.
-
What city in Illinois pays Waiters and Waitressess the most?Major metro areas typically pay Waiters and Waitressess the highest wages in Illinois due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
-
Is Illinois a good state for Waiters and Waitressess?Illinois has a strong job market with major industries in Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Waiters and Waitresses employment.
-
How does Illinois Waiters and Waitresses salary compare to the US average?At $37,044/year, Illinois Waiters and Waitresses salaries are 5.0% higher than the national average of $35,280/year.