HowLong&HowMuch
Beauty & personal care · Illinois

Cosmetologist salary in Illinois

A cosmetologist in Illinois earns an estimated $36,000 a year (about $17.31/hour) — roughly 3% above the US median. Here's how it breaks down, and how long it takes to get there.

Estimated Illinois median$36,000
Entry level$26,000
Experienced$66,000+
US median (for comparison)$35,000

Estimate: national median adjusted for Illinois's wage level (+3%). Not a survey figure for Illinois specifically — see official state BLS OEWS data or local listings for exact pay.

How long to become one
about 1–2 years
State-licensed program (~1500 hrs)
See the full path →
Hourly in Illinois
$17.31/hr
estimated median wage

Cosmetologist pay in Illinois — FAQ

How much does a cosmetologist make in Illinois?

A cosmetologist in Illinois earns an estimated $36,000 a year (about $17.31/hour), roughly 3% above the US median. Most fall between roughly $26,000 and $66,000 depending on experience, employer and city. This is an estimate adjusted from the national median — check local listings for exact pay.

How long does it take to become a cosmetologist in Illinois?

About the same as anywhere in the US — about 1–2 years (State-licensed program (~1500 hrs)). Licensing details can vary by state, so confirm Illinois's specific requirements with its licensing board.

Cosmetologist salary in other states

General information only — not career, legal or financial advice. State salary figures are estimates adjusted from national medians and will differ from exact local survey data.