Skip to content
AffordMap
Transportation · Illinois

How to Become a Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Illinois

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Illinois earn a median salary of $59,790/year, which is 4% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers takes home approximately $2,515/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$60K
Median salary in Illinois
+4%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
76,650
Employed in Illinois

What a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers can afford in Illinois

Gross annual salary$59,790
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$3,927/mo
Median 2BR rent (Illinois)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home36% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$59,790/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,515/mo

Becoming a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Illinois

1

Meet education requirements

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers 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 heavy and tractor-trailer truck driverss. 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 76,650 heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Rockford.

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers salary by metro area in Illinois

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin$62K$30.02/hr54,680
Rockford$60K$28.71/hr1,490
Bloomington$59K$28.49/hr1,100
Decatur$58K$27.7/hr900
Springfield$52K$25.22/hr760
Champaign-Urbana$51K$24.61/hr1,050
Peoria$48K$23.21/hr1,720
Kankakee$46K$22.24/hr760

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers salary range in Illinois

10th percentile (entry)
$39K
25th percentile
$48K
Median (50th)
$60K
75th percentile
$73K
90th percentile (senior)
$85K
View jobs for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
Currently hiring in Illinois
View →
More openings for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
Currently hiring in Illinois
View →
Find accredited trade programs
Apprenticeship and certification paths
View →
Full heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers 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 →

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers make in Illinois?

The median heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers salary in Illinois is $59,790 per year ($28.75/hr). This is 4% above the national median of $57,440. Salaries range from $39,010 to $84,770.

What are the requirements to become a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Illinois?

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers afford to live in Illinois?

At the median salary of $59,790, a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Illinois would take home approximately $3,927/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 36% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Illinois?

The highest paying metro areas for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($62,430), Rockford ($59,710), Bloomington ($59,250). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Illinois have state income tax for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers?

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $59,790 salary, this means roughly $2,960/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.