How to Become a Butchers and Meat Cutters in Illinois
Butchers and Meat Cutters in Illinois earn a median salary of $38,530/year, which is 1% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a butchers and meat cutters takes home approximately $1,179/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a butchers and meat cutters can afford in Illinois
Becoming a butchers and meat cutters in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Butchers and Meat Cutters positions in Illinois typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many butchers and meat cutters 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.
Obtain Illinois licensure or certification
Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for butchers and meat cutterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Illinois
Illinois employs 9,000 butchers and meat cutters. The highest concentrations are in Kankakee and Chicago-Naperville-Elgin.
Butchers and Meat Cutters salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kankakee | $45K | $21.85/hr | 40 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $39K | $18.83/hr | 7,190 |
| Springfield | $36K | $17.35/hr | 90 |
| Bloomington | $36K | $17.15/hr | 50 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $36K | $17.08/hr | 130 |
| Rockford | $35K | $16.98/hr | 210 |
| Peoria | $35K | $16.79/hr | 140 |
Butchers and Meat Cutters salary range in Illinois
Butchers and Meat Cutters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a butchers and meat cutters make in Illinois?▼
The median butchers and meat cutters salary in Illinois is $38,530 per year ($18.52/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $38,960. Salaries range from $31,650 to $51,640.
What are the requirements to become a butchers and meat cutters in Illinois?▼
Butchers and Meat Cutters positions in Illinois typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a butchers and meat cutters afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $38,530, a butchers and meat cutters in Illinois would take home approximately $2,591/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 54.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for butchers and meat cutters in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for butchers and meat cutters in Illinois are Kankakee ($45,450), Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($39,170), Springfield ($36,080). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for butchers and meat cutters?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $38,530 salary, this means roughly $1,907/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.