How to Become a Medical Assistants in Illinois
Medical Assistants in Illinois earn a median salary of $45,490/year, which is 3% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a medical assistants takes home approximately $1,616/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a medical assistants can afford in Illinois
Becoming a medical assistants in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Medical Assistants positions in Illinois typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many medical assistants 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 medical assistantss. 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 22,990 medical assistants. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Rockford.
Medical Assistants salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $47K | $22.47/hr | 18,130 |
| Rockford | $44K | $21.34/hr | 700 |
| Peoria | $43K | $20.75/hr | 710 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $43K | $20.64/hr | 470 |
| Springfield | $41K | $19.52/hr | 760 |
| Decatur | $41K | $19.51/hr | 140 |
| Bloomington | $39K | $18.55/hr | 400 |
| Kankakee | $37K | $17.98/hr | 230 |
Medical Assistants salary range in Illinois
Medical Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical assistants make in Illinois?▼
The median medical assistants salary in Illinois is $45,490 per year ($21.87/hr). This is 3% above the national median of $44,200. Salaries range from $35,560 to $54,960.
What are the requirements to become a medical assistants in Illinois?▼
Medical Assistants positions in Illinois typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a medical assistants afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $45,490, a medical assistants in Illinois would take home approximately $3,028/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 46.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for medical assistants in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for medical assistants in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($46,740), Rockford ($44,380), Peoria ($43,170). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for medical assistants?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $45,490 salary, this means roughly $2,252/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.