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Transportation · Illinois

How to Become a Bus Drivers, School in Illinois

Bus Drivers, Schools in Illinois earn a median salary of $49,760/year, which is 6% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a bus drivers, school takes home approximately $1,884/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$50K
Median salary in Illinois
+6%
vs. national average
4.9%
State income tax
20,060
Employed in Illinois

What a bus drivers, school can afford in Illinois

Gross annual salary$49,760
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.9% state tax)$3,296/mo
Median 2BR rent (Illinois)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home42.8% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$49,760/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,884/mo

Becoming a bus drivers, school in Illinois

1

Meet education requirements

Bus Drivers, School positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many bus drivers, school 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 bus drivers, schools. 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 20,060 bus drivers, schools. The highest concentrations are in Decatur and Chicago-Naperville-Elgin.

Bus Drivers, School salary by metro area in Illinois

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Decatur$51K$24.41/hr170
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin$51K$24.34/hr13,910
Springfield$48K$23.3/hr370
Peoria$48K$23.13/hr640
Bloomington$46K$22.04/hr270
Kankakee$44K$21.17/hr180
Rockford$44K$21.13/hr570
Champaign-Urbana$44K$21/hr260

Bus Drivers, School salary range in Illinois

10th percentile (entry)
$37K
25th percentile
$43K
Median (50th)
$50K
75th percentile
$57K
90th percentile (senior)
$59K
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Bus Drivers, School careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a bus drivers, school make in Illinois?

The median bus drivers, school salary in Illinois is $49,760 per year ($23.92/hr). This is 6% above the national median of $47,040. Salaries range from $36,710 to $59,130.

What are the requirements to become a bus drivers, school in Illinois?

Bus Drivers, School positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a bus drivers, school afford to live in Illinois?

At the median salary of $49,760, a bus drivers, school in Illinois would take home approximately $3,296/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 42.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for bus drivers, schools in Illinois?

The highest paying metro areas for bus drivers, schools in Illinois are Decatur ($50,770), Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($50,630), Springfield ($48,460). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Illinois have state income tax for bus drivers, schools?

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $49,760 salary, this means roughly $2,463/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.