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How to Become a Clergy in Illinois

Clergies in Illinois earn a median salary of $61,820/year, which is 2% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a clergy takes home approximately $2,855/month. Most positions require Master's degree.

$62K
Median salary in Illinois
+2%
vs. national average
4.9%
State income tax
2,200
Employed in Illinois

What a clergy can afford in Illinois

Gross annual salary$61,820
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.9% state tax)$4,054/mo
Median 2BR rent (Illinois)-$1,199/mo
Rent as % of take-home29.6% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$61,820/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,855/mo

Becoming a clergy in Illinois

1

Meet education requirements

Clergy positions in Illinois typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many clergy 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 clergys. 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 2,200 clergies. The highest concentrations are in Champaign-Urbana and Chicago-Naperville-Elgin.

Clergy salary by metro area in Illinois

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Champaign-Urbana$63K$30.07/hr40
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin$62K$29.72/hr1,690
Rockford$62K$29.57/hr40
Peoria$56K$26.96/hr80
Bloomington$53K$25.31/hr40
Springfield$52K$25.04/hr60

Clergy salary range in Illinois

10th percentile (entry)
$37K
25th percentile
$47K
Median (50th)
$62K
75th percentile
$75K
90th percentile (senior)
$86K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a clergy make in Illinois?

The median clergy salary in Illinois is $61,820 per year ($29.72/hr). This is 2% above the national median of $60,810. Salaries range from $36,760 to $86,390.

What are the requirements to become a clergy in Illinois?

Clergy positions in Illinois typically require Master'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 clergy afford to live in Illinois?

At the median salary of $61,820, a clergy in Illinois would take home approximately $4,054/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,199/month, that's 29.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for clergies in Illinois?

The highest paying metro areas for clergies in Illinois are Champaign-Urbana ($62,540), Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($61,820), Rockford ($61,510). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Illinois have state income tax for clergies?

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $61,820 salary, this means roughly $3,060/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.