How Physician Assistant (PA)s in Illinois get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Illinois compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $109,300 | $83,000 | $142,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $135,800 | $103,200 | $176,600 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $156,200 | $118,700 | $203,100 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $187,400 | $142,400 | $243,700 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $212,400 | $161,400 | $276,200 |
Pay varies sharply within Illinois. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Illinois |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago | $162,000 | $123,100 | $210,500 | +4% |
Top occupations by median pay in Illinois — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Illinois
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Physician Assistant (PA) salary in Illinois is $156,200 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $118,700 and the 75th at $203,100.
Pay-wise, Illinois sits +9% above the national Physician Assistant (PA) median ($143,300). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Physician Assistant (PA)s (10–14 years of experience) in Illinois earn around $187,400 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $212,400 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Illinois ranks 15th for Physician Assistant (PA) pay. The highest-paying state pays around $200,700 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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