How to Become a Dental Hygienists in Illinois
Dental Hygienists in Illinois earn a median salary of $96,490/year, which is 2% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a dental hygienists takes home approximately $4,546/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a dental hygienists can afford in Illinois
Becoming a dental hygienists in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Dental Hygienists positions in Illinois typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dental hygienists 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 dental hygienistss. 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 8,740 dental hygienists. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Rockford.
Dental Hygienists salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $98K | $47.13/hr | 6,420 |
| Rockford | $83K | $39.89/hr | 350 |
| Kankakee | $79K | $37.89/hr | 70 |
| Bloomington | $79K | $37.81/hr | 140 |
| Springfield | $79K | $37.79/hr | 140 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $79K | $37.76/hr | 150 |
| Decatur | $78K | $37.63/hr | 60 |
| Peoria | $74K | $35.58/hr | 260 |
Dental Hygienists salary range in Illinois
Dental Hygienists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental hygienists make in Illinois?▼
The median dental hygienists salary in Illinois is $96,490 per year ($46.39/hr). This is 2% above the national median of $94,260. Salaries range from $64,010 to $99,660.
What are the requirements to become a dental hygienists in Illinois?▼
Dental Hygienists positions in Illinois typically require Associate'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 dental hygienists afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $96,490, a dental hygienists in Illinois would take home approximately $5,958/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 23.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dental hygienists in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dental hygienists in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($98,030), Rockford ($82,970), Kankakee ($78,800). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for dental hygienists?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $96,490 salary, this means roughly $4,776/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.