How to Become a Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Illinois
Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Illinois earn a median salary of $62,290/year, which is 2% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a paralegals and legal assistants takes home approximately $2,672/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a paralegals and legal assistants can afford in Illinois
Becoming a paralegals and legal assistants in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Paralegals and Legal Assistants positions in Illinois typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many paralegals and legal 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 paralegals and legal 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 12,430 paralegals and legal assistants. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Decatur.
Paralegals and Legal Assistants salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $67K | $32.18/hr | 10,250 |
| Decatur | $62K | $29.66/hr | 40 |
| Springfield | $59K | $28.14/hr | 150 |
| Bloomington | $58K | $27.88/hr | 210 |
| Peoria | $58K | $27.82/hr | 220 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $48K | $23.01/hr | 80 |
| Rockford | $47K | $22.65/hr | 170 |
Paralegals and Legal Assistants salary range in Illinois
Paralegals and Legal Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a paralegals and legal assistants make in Illinois?▼
The median paralegals and legal assistants salary in Illinois is $62,290 per year ($29.95/hr). This is 2% above the national median of $61,010. Salaries range from $44,180 to $102,270.
What are the requirements to become a paralegals and legal assistants in Illinois?▼
Paralegals and Legal Assistants positions in Illinois typically require Associate'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 paralegals and legal assistants afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $62,290, a paralegals and legal assistants in Illinois would take home approximately $4,084/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 34.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for paralegals and legal assistants in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for paralegals and legal assistants in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($66,930), Decatur ($61,700), Springfield ($58,530). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for paralegals and legal assistants?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $62,290 salary, this means roughly $3,083/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.