Lawyer salary in Illinois
A lawyer in Illinois earns an estimated $150,500 a year (about $72.36/hour) — roughly 3% above the US median. Here's how it breaks down, and how long it takes to get there.
| Estimated Illinois median | $150,500 |
| Entry level | $74,000 |
| Experienced | $247,000+ |
| US median (for comparison) | $146,000 |
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.
Lawyer pay in Illinois — FAQ
How much does a lawyer make in Illinois?
A lawyer in Illinois earns an estimated $150,500 a year (about $72.36/hour), roughly 3% above the US median. Most fall between roughly $74,000 and $247,000 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 lawyer in Illinois?
About the same as anywhere in the US — about 7 years (Doctoral degree (JD) + bar exam). Licensing details can vary by state, so confirm Illinois's specific requirements with its licensing board.
Lawyer 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.