How to Become a Clergy in Illinois
Clergies in Illinois earn a median salary of $60,290/year, which is 1% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a clergy takes home approximately $2,546/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a clergy can afford in Illinois
Becoming a clergy in Illinois
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.
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.
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.
Find positions in Illinois
Illinois employs 2,620 clergies. The highest concentrations are in Rockford and Champaign-Urbana.
Clergy salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rockford | $61K | $29.47/hr | 60 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $61K | $29.26/hr | 40 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $61K | $29.24/hr | 2,000 |
| Peoria | $61K | $29.09/hr | 120 |
| Springfield | $57K | $27.16/hr | 70 |
| Bloomington | $47K | $22.82/hr | 40 |
Clergy salary range in Illinois
Clergy careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a clergy make in Illinois?▼
The median clergy salary in Illinois is $60,290 per year ($28.99/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $60,820. Salaries range from $35,690 to $81,410.
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 $60,290, a clergy in Illinois would take home approximately $3,958/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for clergies in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for clergies in Illinois are Rockford ($61,310), Champaign-Urbana ($60,860), Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($60,820). 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 $60,290 salary, this means roughly $2,984/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.