How to Become a Paramedics in Illinois
Paramedics in Illinois earn a median salary of $59,110/year, which is 1% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a paramedics takes home approximately $2,472/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a paramedics can afford in Illinois
Becoming a paramedics in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Paramedics 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 paramedics 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 paramedicss. 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 4,680 paramedics. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Springfield.
Paramedics salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $81K | $38.88/hr | 2,880 |
| Springfield | $52K | $24.9/hr | 60 |
| Rockford | $48K | $23.1/hr | 30 |
| Peoria | $48K | $23.01/hr | 220 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $48K | $22.89/hr | 70 |
Paramedics salary range in Illinois
Paramedics careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a paramedics make in Illinois?▼
The median paramedics salary in Illinois is $59,110 per year ($28.42/hr). This is 1% above the national median of $58,410. Salaries range from $39,520 to $103,160.
What are the requirements to become a paramedics in Illinois?▼
Paramedics 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 paramedics afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $59,110, a paramedics in Illinois would take home approximately $3,884/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 36.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for paramedics in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for paramedics in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($80,870), Springfield ($51,800), Rockford ($48,050). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for paramedics?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $59,110 salary, this means roughly $2,926/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.