Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist Salary in Illinois (2026)
Illinois · 5.0% above national average · Medium Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago | $80,297 | +12.0% | Medium |
| Aurora | $73,128 | +2.0% | Medium |
Illinois is home to a strong job market for Zoologist and Wildlife Biologists. The state's key industries — Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $71,694 per year, Illinois's Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist 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 $46,809–$60,669, while experienced Zoologist and Wildlife Biologists can command $91,854–$103,632.
Looking ahead, the Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist profession in Illinois is projected to grow at 3.5% 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 Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist salary in Illinois?The average Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist salary in Illinois is $71,694 per year in 2026, which is 5.0% above the national average of $68,280.
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What city in Illinois pays Zoologist and Wildlife Biologists the most?Major metro areas typically pay Zoologist and Wildlife Biologists 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 Zoologist and Wildlife Biologists?Illinois has a strong job market with major industries in Finance, Manufacturing, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist employment.
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How does Illinois Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist salary compare to the US average?At $71,694/year, Illinois Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist salaries are 5.0% higher than the national average of $68,280/year.