How to Become a Real Estate Sales Agents in Illinois
Real Estate Sales Agents in Illinois earn a median salary of $51,210/year, which is 9% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a real estate sales agents takes home approximately $1,976/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a real estate sales agents can afford in Illinois
Becoming a real estate sales agents in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Real Estate Sales Agents 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 sales agents 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 sales agentss. 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 4,220 real estate sales agents. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Kankakee.
Real Estate Sales Agents salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $57K | $27.16/hr | — |
| Kankakee | $51K | $24.65/hr | 40 |
| Rockford | $46K | $21.98/hr | 90 |
| Peoria | $45K | $21.86/hr | 70 |
| Springfield | $44K | $21.08/hr | 80 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $41K | $19.74/hr | 150 |
Real Estate Sales Agents salary range in Illinois
Real Estate Sales Agents careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a real estate sales agents make in Illinois?▼
The median real estate sales agents salary in Illinois is $51,210 per year ($24.62/hr). This is 9% below the national median of $56,320. Salaries range from $34,340 to $85,440.
What are the requirements to become a real estate sales agents in Illinois?▼
Real Estate Sales Agents 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 sales agents afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $51,210, a real estate sales agents in Illinois would take home approximately $3,388/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 41.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for real estate sales agents in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for real estate sales agents in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($56,500), Kankakee ($51,280), Rockford ($45,710). 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 sales agents?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $51,210 salary, this means roughly $2,535/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.