How to Become a Tour and Travel Guides in Illinois
Tour and Travel Guides in Illinois earn a median salary of $35,070/year, which is 4% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a tour and travel guides takes home approximately $961/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a tour and travel guides can afford in Illinois
Becoming a tour and travel guides in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Tour and Travel Guides 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 tour and travel guides 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 tour and travel guidess. 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 1,140 tour and travel guides. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Rockford.
Tour and Travel Guides salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $38K | $18.41/hr | 850 |
| Rockford | $30K | $14.19/hr | 50 |
Tour and Travel Guides salary range in Illinois
Tour and Travel Guides careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a tour and travel guides make in Illinois?▼
The median tour and travel guides salary in Illinois is $35,070 per year ($16.86/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $36,660. Salaries range from $29,190 to $50,410.
What are the requirements to become a tour and travel guides in Illinois?▼
Tour and Travel Guides 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 tour and travel guides afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $35,070, a tour and travel guides in Illinois would take home approximately $2,373/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 59.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for tour and travel guides in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for tour and travel guides in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($38,290), Rockford ($29,520). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for tour and travel guides?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $35,070 salary, this means roughly $1,736/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.