Illinois Teacher Salaries

With Illinois teacher salaries more than $6,000 over the national average in 2009-2010, you might be thinking seriously about becoming a teacher in Illinois. But while $62,077 is certainly an appealing number, it's not the whole story. Breaking down the Illinois teacher salary numbers in more detail can be very revealing—and perhaps even more encouraging to future educators.

It's clear that Illinois places a high value on public education by offering generous compensation to its teachers. But besides attractive Illinois teacher salaries, most school districts in the state offer a wide range of benefits. Like other districts in the state, Chicago Public Schools offers health and dental coverage, but if you teach in Chicago, you'll also be eligible for student loan forgiveness, home ownership incentives, and various other perks.⁽¹⁾

Not only are the fringe benefits excellent, but teachers in Illinois may receive additional boosts in salary as they get more full-time classroom experience and higher-level college degrees. Just five years of teaching experience will grant bachelor's degree holders an additional $1,000 above their starting salaries, while master's degree holders will earn at least $1,250 more.⁽²⁾

Illinois teacher salaries also differ depending on where teachers are employed and what age kids they teach. Secondary school salaries, for instance, are the second highest in the nation at $67,960, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Take a look at average secondary school teacher salaries in five major metropolitan areas:⁽³⁾

• Champaign/Urbana: $49,580
• Chicago/Naperville/Joliet: $74,530
• Peoria: $52,070
• Rockford: $56,630
• Springfield: $48,210

Salaries aside, most people are attracted to the teaching profession for more altruistic reasons. Start your career inspiring young people to reach their potential. Research the best teacher education programs right here on Teacher World.

Sources:
(1) Chicago Public Schools
(2) Illinois State Board of Education
(3) U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Back to Illinois Teacher Certification/Credentialing
or, Steps to become a teacher in Illinois