How to Become a Respiratory Therapists in Illinois
Respiratory Therapists in Illinois earn a median salary of $81,310/year, which is 1% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a respiratory therapists takes home approximately $3,718/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a respiratory therapists can afford in Illinois
Becoming a respiratory therapists in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Respiratory Therapists positions in Illinois typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many respiratory therapists 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 respiratory therapistss. 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 5,450 respiratory therapists. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Kankakee.
Respiratory Therapists salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $83K | $39.86/hr | 4,040 |
| Kankakee | $82K | $39.37/hr | 60 |
| Rockford | $77K | $36.9/hr | 150 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $76K | $36.77/hr | 150 |
| Springfield | $76K | $36.52/hr | 170 |
| Bloomington | $75K | $35.9/hr | 60 |
| Peoria | $74K | $35.81/hr | 240 |
Respiratory Therapists salary range in Illinois
Respiratory Therapists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a respiratory therapists make in Illinois?▼
The median respiratory therapists salary in Illinois is $81,310 per year ($39.09/hr). This is 1% above the national median of $80,450. Salaries range from $63,430 to $97,310.
What are the requirements to become a respiratory therapists in Illinois?▼
Respiratory Therapists positions in Illinois typically require Associate'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 respiratory therapists afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $81,310, a respiratory therapists in Illinois would take home approximately $5,130/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for respiratory therapists in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for respiratory therapists in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($82,900), Kankakee ($81,890), Rockford ($76,740). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for respiratory therapists?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $81,310 salary, this means roughly $4,025/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.