How to Become a Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in Illinois
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in Illinois earn a median salary of $61,210/year, which is 6% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors takes home approximately $2,604/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors can afford in Illinois
Becoming a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors 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 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors 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 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisorss. 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 12,790 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Rockford.
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $64K | $30.68/hr | 9,210 |
| Rockford | $62K | $29.81/hr | 250 |
| Springfield | $60K | $28.94/hr | 190 |
| Peoria | $58K | $28.04/hr | 330 |
| Kankakee | $55K | $26.23/hr | 80 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $54K | $25.98/hr | 580 |
| Bloomington | $51K | $24.71/hr | 270 |
| Decatur | $50K | $23.86/hr | 100 |
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary range in Illinois
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors make in Illinois?▼
The median educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors salary in Illinois is $61,210 per year ($29.43/hr). This is 6% below the national median of $65,140. Salaries range from $44,760 to $109,110.
What are the requirements to become a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Illinois?▼
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors 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 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $61,210, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Illinois would take home approximately $4,016/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($63,820), Rockford ($62,010), Springfield ($60,190). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $61,210 salary, this means roughly $3,030/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.