How to Become a Technical Writers in Illinois
Technical Writers in Illinois earn a median salary of $79,690/year, which is 13% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a technical writers takes home approximately $3,630/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a technical writers can afford in Illinois
Becoming a technical writers in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Technical Writers 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 technical writers 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 technical writerss. 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 1,180 technical writers. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Peoria.
Technical Writers salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $80K | $38.58/hr | 920 |
| Peoria | $80K | $38.37/hr | 30 |
Technical Writers salary range in Illinois
Technical Writers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a technical writers make in Illinois?▼
The median technical writers salary in Illinois is $79,690 per year ($38.31/hr). This is 13% below the national median of $91,670. Salaries range from $52,320 to $124,280.
What are the requirements to become a technical writers in Illinois?▼
Technical Writers 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 technical writers afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $79,690, a technical writers in Illinois would take home approximately $5,042/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for technical writers in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for technical writers in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($80,240), Peoria ($79,800). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for technical writers?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $79,690 salary, this means roughly $3,945/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.