Skip to content
AffordMap
Arts & Media · Illinois

How to Become a Film and Video Editors in Illinois

Film and Video Editors in Illinois earn a median salary of $58,620/year, which is 17% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a film and video editors takes home approximately $2,441/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$59K
Median salary in Illinois
-17%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
500
Employed in Illinois

What a film and video editors can afford in Illinois

Gross annual salary$58,620
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$3,853/mo
Median 2BR rent (Illinois)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home36.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$58,620/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,441/mo

Becoming a film and video editors in Illinois

1

Meet education requirements

Film and Video Editors positions in Illinois typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many film and video editors 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 film and video editorss. 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 500 film and video editors. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin.

Film and Video Editors salary by metro area in Illinois

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin$59K$28.17/hr410

Film and Video Editors salary range in Illinois

10th percentile (entry)
$36K
25th percentile
$49K
Median (50th)
$59K
75th percentile
$79K
90th percentile (senior)
$114K
View jobs for Film and Video Editors
Currently hiring in Illinois
View →
More openings for Film and Video Editors
Currently hiring in Illinois
View →
Build creative skills online
Design, UX, branding, and portfolio-building courses
View →
Full film and video editors salary breakdown in Illinois
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Illinois
After federal + 5.0% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Illinois cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Film and Video Editors careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a film and video editors make in Illinois?

The median film and video editors salary in Illinois is $58,620 per year ($28.18/hr). This is 17% below the national median of $70,980. Salaries range from $35,560 to $114,270.

What are the requirements to become a film and video editors in Illinois?

Film and Video Editors positions in Illinois typically require Bachelor'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 film and video editors afford to live in Illinois?

At the median salary of $58,620, a film and video editors in Illinois would take home approximately $3,853/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 36.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for film and video editors in Illinois?

The highest paying metro areas for film and video editors in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($58,590). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Illinois have state income tax for film and video editors?

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $58,620 salary, this means roughly $2,902/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.