How to Become a Registered Nurses in Illinois
Registered Nurses in Illinois earn a median salary of $86,410/year, which is 8% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a registered nurses takes home approximately $3,996/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a registered nurses can afford in Illinois
Becoming a registered nurses in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Registered Nurses 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
This career typically involves none in Illinois. 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 registered nursess. 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 139,900 registered nurses. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Peoria.
Registered Nurses salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $96K | $46.38/hr | 100,620 |
| Peoria | $85K | $40.72/hr | 6,020 |
| Decatur | $84K | $40.44/hr | 800 |
| Kankakee | $83K | $39.96/hr | 1,470 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $82K | $39.4/hr | 3,740 |
| Springfield | $82K | $39.27/hr | 4,210 |
| Rockford | $82K | $39.21/hr | 4,340 |
| Bloomington | $80K | $38.49/hr | 1,590 |
Registered Nurses salary range in Illinois
Registered Nurses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a registered nurses make in Illinois?▼
The median registered nurses salary in Illinois is $86,410 per year ($41.54/hr). This is 8% below the national median of $93,600. Salaries range from $64,930 to $112,320.
What are the requirements to become a registered nurses in Illinois?▼
Registered Nurses 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 registered nurses afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $86,410, a registered nurses in Illinois would take home approximately $5,408/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 26.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for registered nurses in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for registered nurses in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($96,480), Peoria ($84,690), Decatur ($84,120). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for registered nurses?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $86,410 salary, this means roughly $4,277/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.