Average Commercial Pilots Salary in Illinois
Commercial Pilots in Illinois command an impressive average annual salary of $157,490, notably exceeding the national average of $144,150. This elevated compensation is often a reflection of the state's specific economic drivers, demand for air travel, and the operational complexities associated with aviation hubs within Illinois.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $157,490 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 75.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $236,235.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 1,010 Commercial Pilots, Illinois presents a moderate employment landscape for this profession. The Location Quotient of 0.5 indicates that the concentration of these jobs is half the national average, suggesting that while opportunities exist, the market is not oversaturated, potentially offering stability for skilled professionals.
Salary Overview
The average Commercial Pilots in Illinois earns+9.3%above the national average.
$75.7
$3,029
$13,124
Commercial Pilots Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that the salary trajectory for Commercial Pilots in Illinois has mirrored national trends, experiencing steady growth over the past four years. Factors such as increasing demand for air travel, advancements in aviation technology, and evolving pilot training standards likely contribute to this upward salary movement.
Commercial Pilots Salary Distribution in Illinois
The earning potential for Commercial Pilots in Illinois significantly scales with experience. Entry-level positions typically offer salaries at the lower end of the spectrum, while seasoned professionals with extensive flight hours and advanced certifications can command salaries well into the upper percentiles. These percentile gaps are a clear indicator of career progression and the value placed on accumulated expertise.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $60,860 | $29.3 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $118,118 | $56.8 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $105,290 | $50.6 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $196,863 | $94.6 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $236,235 | $113.6 |
Detailed Commercial Pilots Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$157,490
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$171,558
Adjusted for COL (91.8)
The nominal average salary of $157,490 in Illinois offers substantial purchasing power, especially when contrasted with the state's Cost of Living Index of 91.8, which is below the national average of 100. This means that the income earned by Commercial Pilots in Illinois can translate into a higher real standard of living compared to many other parts of the country.
Job Market Context
1,010
Total Jobs
0.167
Per 1K Jobs
0.5
Location Quotient
Illinois has 0.50x the national average concentration of Commercial Pilots jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
A Location Quotient of 0.5 for Commercial Pilots in Illinois suggests that the state has a lower concentration of these professionals relative to the national average. This could indicate a less competitive job market in terms of sheer numbers of pilots, potentially making it easier for qualified individuals to find employment, though it also implies fewer overall job openings compared to more concentrated regions.
Nearby Job Markets
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Commercial Pilots make in Illinois?
The median annual salary for a Commercial Pilots in Illinois is $157,490. This typically ranges from $60,860 for entry-level positions to $236,235 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Illinois is 9.3% higher than the national median of $144,150.
Is Illinois a lucrative place for Commercial Pilots?
Yes, Illinois is a lucrative state for Commercial Pilots.Commercial Pilots in Illinois earn an average of $157,490 annually, significantly higher than the national average. Coupled with a cost of living below the national average, this makes Illinois an economically advantageous location for the profession.
Is Illinois a good place to live for Commercial Pilots?
With a Cost of Living Index of 91.8 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
How does the number of Commercial Pilots in Illinois compare nationally?
Illinois has a total local workforce of 1,010 Commercial Pilots. While this represents a significant number, the Location Quotient of 0.5 indicates that the concentration of these jobs is half that of the national average.
What is the cost of living impact on a Commercial Pilot's salary in Illinois?
With a Cost of Living Index of 91.8, Illinois is more affordable than the national average. This means the average salary of $157,490 provides greater purchasing power for pilots residing in the state.
Are there many job opportunities for Commercial Pilots in Illinois?
The job market for Commercial Pilots in Illinois is moderate. The state employs 0.167 pilots per 1,000 workers, and the Location Quotient of 0.5 suggests a lower concentration than the national average, indicating a stable but not booming job market.
How does experience affect a Commercial Pilot's salary in Illinois?
Experience is a major factor in salary progression for Commercial Pilots in Illinois. As pilots gain more flight hours, certifications, and seniority, their earning potential increases significantly, moving them into higher salary percentiles.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,010 employees in the Illinois area with a job density of 0.167 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Commercial Pilots • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Illinois