Skip to content
AffordMap
Engineering · Illinois

How to Become a Architectural and Civil Drafters in Illinois

Architectural and Civil Drafters in Illinois earn a median salary of $58,240/year, which is 12% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a architectural and civil drafters takes home approximately $2,228/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$58K
Median salary in Illinois
-12%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
1,310
Employed in Illinois

What a architectural and civil drafters can afford in Illinois

Gross annual salary$58,240
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$3,829/mo
Median 2BR rent (Illinois)-$1,601/mo
Rent as % of take-home41.8% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$58,240/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,228/mo

Becoming a architectural and civil drafters in Illinois

1

Meet education requirements

Architectural and Civil Drafters positions in Illinois typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many architectural and civil drafters positions in Illinois require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Illinois licensure or certification

Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for architectural and civil drafterss. Requirements vary by state, contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Illinois

Illinois employs 1,310 architectural and civil drafters. The highest concentrations are in Rockford and Peoria.

Architectural and Civil Drafters salary by metro area in Illinois

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Rockford$63K$30.5/hr60
Peoria$59K$28.28/hr60
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin$59K$28.27/hr1,040
Champaign-Urbana$52K$24.96/hr30

Architectural and Civil Drafters salary range in Illinois

10th percentile (entry)
$46K
25th percentile
$49K
Median (50th)
$58K
75th percentile
$75K
90th percentile (senior)
$88K
View jobs for Architectural and Civil Drafters
Currently hiring in Illinois
View →
More openings for Architectural and Civil Drafters
Currently hiring in Illinois
View →
Advance your technical skills
Engineering, CAD, analytics, and project tools
View →
Full architectural and civil drafters salary breakdown in Illinois
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Illinois
After federal + 5.0% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Illinois cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Architectural and Civil Drafters careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a architectural and civil drafters make in Illinois?

The median architectural and civil drafters salary in Illinois is $58,240 per year ($28/hr). This is 12% below the national median of $66,150. Salaries range from $45,760 to $88,040.

What are the requirements to become a architectural and civil drafters in Illinois?

Architectural and Civil Drafters positions in Illinois typically require Bachelor's degree. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a architectural and civil drafters afford to live in Illinois?

At the median salary of $58,240, a architectural and civil drafters in Illinois would take home approximately $3,829/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,601/month, that's 41.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for architectural and civil drafters in Illinois?

The highest paying metro areas for architectural and civil drafters in Illinois are Rockford ($63,440), Peoria ($58,820), Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($58,800). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Illinois have state income tax for architectural and civil drafters?

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $58,240 salary, this means roughly $2,883/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.