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Arts & Media · Illinois

How to Become a Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators in Illinois

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators in Illinois earn a median salary of $53,820/year, which is 11% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators takes home approximately $2,140/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$54K
Median salary in Illinois
-11%
vs. national average
4.9%
State income tax
N/A
Employed in Illinois

What a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators can afford in Illinois

Gross annual salary$53,820
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.9% state tax)$3,552/mo
Median 2BR rent (Illinois)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home39.8% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$53,820/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,140/mo

Becoming a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in Illinois

1

Meet education requirements

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators 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 fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators 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 fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustratorss. 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 has an active job market for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators.

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators salary range in Illinois

10th percentile (entry)
$42K
25th percentile
$42K
Median (50th)
$54K
75th percentile
$80K
90th percentile (senior)
$95K
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Full fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators salary breakdown in Illinois
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Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators make in Illinois?

The median fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators salary in Illinois is $53,820 per year ($25.87/hr). This is 11% below the national median of $60,560. Salaries range from $41,600 to $94,720.

What are the requirements to become a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in Illinois?

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators 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 fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators afford to live in Illinois?

At the median salary of $53,820, a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in Illinois would take home approximately $3,552/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 39.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in Illinois?

Check our location hub pages for detailed metro area data within Illinois.

Does Illinois have state income tax for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators?

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $53,820 salary, this means roughly $2,664/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.