How to Become a Lawyers in Illinois
Lawyers in Illinois earn a median salary of $157,320/year, which is 4% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a lawyers takes home approximately $7,796/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a lawyers can afford in Illinois
Becoming a lawyers in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Lawyers positions in Illinois typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves none in Illinois. 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 lawyerss. 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 33,430 lawyers. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Springfield.
Lawyers salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $166K | $79.85/hr | 28,380 |
| Springfield | $127K | $61.15/hr | 550 |
| Bloomington | $126K | $60.79/hr | 570 |
| Peoria | $126K | $60.43/hr | 460 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $108K | $51.73/hr | 240 |
| Rockford | $101K | $48.66/hr | 330 |
| Kankakee | $87K | $41.69/hr | 50 |
Lawyers salary range in Illinois
Lawyers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a lawyers make in Illinois?▼
The median lawyers salary in Illinois is $157,320 per year ($75.63/hr). This is 4% above the national median of $151,160. Salaries range from $73,500 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a lawyers in Illinois?▼
Lawyers positions in Illinois typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a lawyers afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $157,320, a lawyers in Illinois would take home approximately $9,208/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 15.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for lawyers in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for lawyers in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($166,090), Springfield ($127,190), Bloomington ($126,450). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for lawyers?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $157,320 salary, this means roughly $7,787/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.