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Transportation · Illinois

How to Become a Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity in Illinois

Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercities in Illinois earn a median salary of $69,950/year, which is 22% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a bus drivers, transit and intercity takes home approximately $3,099/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$70K
Median salary in Illinois
+22%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
7,580
Employed in Illinois

What a bus drivers, transit and intercity can afford in Illinois

Gross annual salary$69,950
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$4,511/mo
Median 2BR rent (Illinois)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home31.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$69,950/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,099/mo

Becoming a bus drivers, transit and intercity in Illinois

1

Meet education requirements

Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity 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, transit and intercity 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, transit and intercitys. 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 7,580 bus drivers, transit and intercities. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Champaign-Urbana.

Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity salary by metro area in Illinois

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin$70K$33.65/hr6,230
Champaign-Urbana$65K$31.33/hr260
Peoria$60K$28.99/hr160

Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity salary range in Illinois

10th percentile (entry)
$46K
25th percentile
$58K
Median (50th)
$70K
75th percentile
$84K
90th percentile (senior)
$84K
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Full bus drivers, transit and intercity salary breakdown in Illinois
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After federal + 5.0% state tax
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Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a bus drivers, transit and intercity make in Illinois?

The median bus drivers, transit and intercity salary in Illinois is $69,950 per year ($33.63/hr). This is 22% above the national median of $57,440. Salaries range from $46,380 to $84,440.

What are the requirements to become a bus drivers, transit and intercity in Illinois?

Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity 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, transit and intercity afford to live in Illinois?

At the median salary of $69,950, a bus drivers, transit and intercity in Illinois would take home approximately $4,511/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 31.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for bus drivers, transit and intercities in Illinois?

The highest paying metro areas for bus drivers, transit and intercities in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($69,990), Champaign-Urbana ($65,160), Peoria ($60,300). 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, transit and intercities?

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $69,950 salary, this means roughly $3,463/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.