Illinois Travel Nurse Pay Guide: Salary, Chicago Hospitals & Cost of Living (2026)
Illinois remains one of the highest-volume travel nursing markets in the Midwest. Anchored by Chicago’s world-class academic medical centers and Level 1 trauma centers, the state offers consistent assignment availability and competitive pay. With a statewide average of $2,291 – $2,305 per week and top specialty packages reaching $3,496+, Illinois is a primary target for travelers prioritizing clinical prestige.
However, Illinois is a “high-friction” state. It is not a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), and the Chicago cost of living can quickly erode your net savings if not managed correctly. Here is what you need to know about Illinois pay, taxes, and licensing in 2026.
Illinois Travel Nurse Pay: 2026 Market Data
| Metric | 2026 Average | Market Context |
|---|---|---|
| Statewide Average | $2,291 – $2,305 | ~6,000+ active jobs |
| Chicago Metro | $2,085 – $2,250 | High volume; high cost of living |
| Springfield Market | $2,573 | Superior savings-to-pay ratio |
| Top Specialty (OR/CVOR) | $3,496 – $4,424 | $4k+ typically 48-hr or crisis |
Illinois Is NOT a Compact State: Licensing 101
As of 2026, Illinois remains a non-compact state. While NLC legislation (HB1706 / SB0102) has been debated, it has not yet been enacted. You must have a standalone Illinois RN license to work in the state.
- Application Type: License by Endorsement
- Estimated Fee: $50 (Application) + ~$60 (Fingerprinting)
- Timeline: 4–8 weeks (Plan ahead!)
- Renewal: Every 2 years (Even-numbered years)
Strategic Note: Once you obtain an Illinois license, keep it active. Renewal is affordable (~$40/year), and it grants you access to one of the most stable high-pay markets in the country.
Illinois Income Tax: The 4.95% Flat Rate
Illinois applies a straightforward 4.95% flat income tax to all taxable wages. Unlike many neighboring states (like Kentucky or Ohio), Illinois has no local or city-level income taxes. This is a significant advantage when working in Chicago, as it keeps your tax burden lower than in cities like Philadelphia or New York.
| State | Tax Rate | NLC Compact? |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 4.95% Flat | No |
| Indiana | 3.05% Flat | Yes |
| Wisconsin | 3.50% – 7.65% | Yes |
Top Illinois Markets for Travel Nurses
Chicago: The Academic Giant
Chicago generates the vast majority of Illinois assignment volume. Facilities like Northwestern Memorial, RUSH University, and UofL Health offer high-acuity academic environments. Stroger Hospital (Cook County) is a hotspot for OR and surgical travelers. Housing in neighborhoods like Lincoln Park or West Loop is expensive; consider “inner-ring” suburbs to keep more of your stipend.
Springfield: The “Savings Secret”
Springfield is often the more profitable choice. Average packages here hover around $2,573/week—higher than the Chicago average—while housing costs are significantly lower. Memorial Health and HSHS St. John’s are the primary drivers here. If you prioritize “net savings” over “big city lifestyle,” Springfield wins.
Central & Western Illinois
Carle Foundation Hospital (Champaign) and Blessing Hospital (Quincy) offer consistent demand with a much lower cost of living than the metro areas. These are ideal for Med-Surg and Telemetry travelers looking for a slower pace.
Chicago Cost of Living: Stipend Strategy
Chicago housing stipends are high, but the market is competitive. To maximize your take-home:
- Look for furnished rentals in neighborhoods like Rogers Park or Bridgeport for better value.
- Ensure your agency is using the correct GSA per diem rates for Cook County.
- Remember: Illinois has no city income tax—this makes your 4.95% flat rate much easier to stomach than in other major cities.
Applying for an Illinois contract?
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