How to Become a Medical Records Specialists in Illinois
Medical Records Specialists in Illinois earn a median salary of $49,420/year, which is 2% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a medical records specialists takes home approximately $1,863/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a medical records specialists can afford in Illinois
Becoming a medical records specialists in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Medical Records Specialists positions in Illinois typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many medical records specialists 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 records specialistss. 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 4,990 medical records specialists. The highest concentrations are in Kankakee and Rockford.
Medical Records Specialists salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kankakee | $55K | $26.31/hr | 40 |
| Rockford | $52K | $25.03/hr | 190 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $50K | $23.94/hr | 3,220 |
| Springfield | $49K | $23.73/hr | 150 |
| Decatur | $48K | $23.27/hr | 30 |
| Peoria | $48K | $23.13/hr | 260 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $46K | $22.33/hr | 120 |
| Bloomington | $45K | $21.43/hr | 40 |
Medical Records Specialists salary range in Illinois
Medical Records Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical records specialists make in Illinois?▼
The median medical records specialists salary in Illinois is $49,420 per year ($23.76/hr). This is 2% below the national median of $50,250. Salaries range from $36,900 to $74,520.
What are the requirements to become a medical records specialists in Illinois?▼
Medical Records Specialists 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 medical records specialists afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $49,420, a medical records specialists in Illinois would take home approximately $3,275/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 43.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for medical records specialists in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for medical records specialists in Illinois are Kankakee ($54,720), Rockford ($52,070), Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($49,790). 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 records specialists?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $49,420 salary, this means roughly $2,446/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.