How to Become a Nurse Practitioners in Illinois
Nurse Practitioners in Illinois earn a median salary of $128,620/year, which is 0% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a nurse practitioners takes home approximately $6,280/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a nurse practitioners can afford in Illinois
Becoming a nurse practitioners in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Nurse Practitioners positions in Illinois typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many nurse practitioners 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 nurse practitionerss. 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 9,560 nurse practitioners. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Rockford.
Nurse Practitioners salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $132K | $63.31/hr | 6,930 |
| Rockford | $130K | $62.56/hr | 340 |
| Bloomington | $129K | $62.15/hr | 160 |
| Springfield | $126K | $60.34/hr | 400 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $125K | $59.97/hr | 230 |
| Kankakee | $124K | $59.47/hr | 80 |
| Peoria | $122K | $58.79/hr | 260 |
| Decatur | $117K | $56.23/hr | 80 |
Nurse Practitioners salary range in Illinois
Nurse Practitioners careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a nurse practitioners make in Illinois?▼
The median nurse practitioners salary in Illinois is $128,620 per year ($61.84/hr). This is 0% below the national median of $129,210. Salaries range from $102,280 to $158,680.
What are the requirements to become a nurse practitioners in Illinois?▼
Nurse Practitioners positions in Illinois typically require Master'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 nurse practitioners afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $128,620, a nurse practitioners in Illinois would take home approximately $7,692/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 18.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for nurse practitioners in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for nurse practitioners in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($131,690), Rockford ($130,130), Bloomington ($129,270). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for nurse practitioners?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $128,620 salary, this means roughly $6,367/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.