How to Become a Public Relations Specialists in Illinois
Public Relations Specialists in Illinois earn a median salary of $63,590/year, which is 9% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a public relations specialists takes home approximately $2,752/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a public relations specialists can afford in Illinois
Becoming a public relations specialists in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Public Relations 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 public relations 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 public relations 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 6,360 public relations specialists. The highest concentrations are in Bloomington and Chicago-Naperville-Elgin.
Public Relations Specialists salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomington | $84K | $40.61/hr | 140 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $64K | $30.73/hr | 4,890 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $64K | $30.72/hr | 200 |
| Springfield | $62K | $30.04/hr | 140 |
| Peoria | $61K | $29.33/hr | 100 |
| Kankakee | $57K | $27.21/hr | 40 |
| Rockford | $51K | $24.41/hr | 100 |
Public Relations Specialists salary range in Illinois
Public Relations Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a public relations specialists make in Illinois?▼
The median public relations specialists salary in Illinois is $63,590 per year ($30.57/hr). This is 9% below the national median of $69,780. Salaries range from $38,730 to $111,050.
What are the requirements to become a public relations specialists in Illinois?▼
Public Relations 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 public relations specialists afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $63,590, a public relations specialists in Illinois would take home approximately $4,164/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for public relations specialists in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for public relations specialists in Illinois are Bloomington ($84,480), Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($63,910), Champaign-Urbana ($63,900). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for public relations specialists?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $63,590 salary, this means roughly $3,148/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.