How to Become a Project Management Specialists in Illinois
Project Management Specialists in Illinois earn a median salary of $102,490/year, which is 2% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a project management specialists takes home approximately $4,873/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a project management specialists can afford in Illinois
Becoming a project management specialists in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Project Management 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 project management 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 project management 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 23,850 project management specialists. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Bloomington.
Project Management Specialists salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $105K | $50.31/hr | 19,130 |
| Bloomington | $95K | $45.86/hr | 210 |
| Peoria | $95K | $45.67/hr | 430 |
| Decatur | $94K | $45.34/hr | 70 |
| Kankakee | $92K | $44.03/hr | 80 |
| Springfield | $86K | $41.48/hr | 480 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $83K | $39.72/hr | 290 |
| Rockford | $78K | $37.73/hr | 380 |
Project Management Specialists salary range in Illinois
Project Management Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a project management specialists make in Illinois?▼
The median project management specialists salary in Illinois is $102,490 per year ($49.27/hr). This is 2% above the national median of $100,750. Salaries range from $60,000 to $161,980.
What are the requirements to become a project management specialists in Illinois?▼
Project Management 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 project management specialists afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $102,490, a project management specialists in Illinois would take home approximately $6,285/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 22.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for project management specialists in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for project management specialists in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($104,640), Bloomington ($95,390), Peoria ($94,980). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for project management specialists?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $102,490 salary, this means roughly $5,073/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.