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Public Safety · Illinois

How to Become a Correctional Officers and Jailers in Illinois

Correctional Officers and Jailers in Illinois earn a median salary of $79,190/year, which is 34% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a correctional officers and jailers takes home approximately $3,280/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$79K
Median salary in Illinois
+34%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
12,190
Employed in Illinois

What a correctional officers and jailers can afford in Illinois

Gross annual salary$79,190
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$5,015/mo
Median 2BR rent (Illinois)-$1,735/mo
Rent as % of take-home34.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$79,190/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,280/mo

Becoming a correctional officers and jailers in Illinois

1

Meet education requirements

Correctional Officers and Jailers 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.

2

Gain required experience

Many correctional officers and jailers 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 correctional officers and jailerss. 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 12,190 correctional officers and jailers. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Peoria.

Correctional Officers and Jailers salary by metro area in Illinois

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin$85K$40.65/hr4,940
Peoria$65K$31.03/hr220
Springfield$61K$29.13/hr140
Rockford$57K$27.23/hr250
Champaign-Urbana$56K$26.85/hr100

Correctional Officers and Jailers salary range in Illinois

10th percentile (entry)
$51K
25th percentile
$66K
Median (50th)
$79K
75th percentile
$89K
90th percentile (senior)
$103K
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Full correctional officers and jailers salary breakdown in Illinois
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Correctional Officers and Jailers careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a correctional officers and jailers make in Illinois?

The median correctional officers and jailers salary in Illinois is $79,190 per year ($38.07/hr). This is 34% above the national median of $58,940. Salaries range from $50,520 to $102,770.

What are the requirements to become a correctional officers and jailers in Illinois?

Correctional Officers and Jailers 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 correctional officers and jailers afford to live in Illinois?

At the median salary of $79,190, a correctional officers and jailers in Illinois would take home approximately $5,015/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,735/month, that's 34.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for correctional officers and jailers in Illinois?

The highest paying metro areas for correctional officers and jailers in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($84,550), Peoria ($64,540), Springfield ($60,590). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Illinois have state income tax for correctional officers and jailers?

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $79,190 salary, this means roughly $3,920/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.