How to Become a Real Estate Brokers in Illinois
Real Estate Brokers in Illinois earn a median salary of $55,290/year, which is 24% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a real estate brokers takes home approximately $2,232/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a real estate brokers can afford in Illinois
Becoming a real estate brokers in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Real Estate Brokers positions in Illinois typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many real estate brokers 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 real estate brokerss. 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 1,620 real estate brokers. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Peoria.
Real Estate Brokers salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $53K | $25.51/hr | 1,300 |
| Peoria | $51K | $24.65/hr | 40 |
Real Estate Brokers salary range in Illinois
Real Estate Brokers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a real estate brokers make in Illinois?▼
The median real estate brokers salary in Illinois is $55,290 per year ($26.58/hr). This is 24% below the national median of $72,280. Salaries range from $35,950 to $133,340.
What are the requirements to become a real estate brokers in Illinois?▼
Real Estate Brokers positions in Illinois typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a real estate brokers afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $55,290, a real estate brokers in Illinois would take home approximately $3,644/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 38.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for real estate brokers in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for real estate brokers in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($53,050), Peoria ($51,270). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for real estate brokers?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $55,290 salary, this means roughly $2,737/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.