Illinois Speech-Language Pathologist Salary Guide - 2024

Speech therapists, usually referred to as speech-language pathologists, are essential in treating people with swallowing and communication problems. The top 10% of speech-language pathologists in Illinois earn more than $118,410 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2023) annually, with the average wage in the state being $87,910. The wage range can vary significantly depending on a number of variables, including geography, company type, and years of experience.

In Illinois, a large number of speech-language pathologists work in both public and private schools. Children with speech and language impairments receive therapy and assistance in this environment, which enables them to communicate more effectively and do well in school. Speech-language pathologists in schools make an average of 10% less than the average SLP salary in Illinois.

Speech-language pathologists can be found in hospitals and rehabilitation facilities in addition to working in schools. These specialists frequently assist individuals who have had strokes or brain damage in regaining their speech and language skills. Healthcare speech-language pathologists make average slightly more, > 5%, of the average SLP in the same area.

Another common work environment for speech-language pathologists in Illinois is private practices. These professionals provide therapeutic services to individuals and families either on their own or as part of a larger group practice. In private practice, speech-language pathologists typically make 15%-20% more than the average.

Although speech-language pathologists in Illinois often earn excellent salaries, it’s crucial to remember that demand for these specialists is rising, especially in rural areas. This indicates that in order to entice top personnel, many firms are providing competitive pay and benefit plans.

Illinois Speech-Language Pathologist Salaries – Visualized

Speech-Language Pathologist Salary by Industry in Illinois

Speech-Language Pathologists Salaries in urban areas of Illinois

Speech-Language Pathologists Salaries in rural areas of Illinois

What is it like to work as an SLP in Illinois?

Since the workplace and job responsibilities can differ widely based on geography, working as a speech-language pathologist in Illinois can be a fulfilling and interesting experience. Here’s a look at the daily lives of speech-language pathologists in Chicago, Springfield, and Peoria, three Illinois communities.

Speech-language pathologists operate in a dynamic, fast-paced atmosphere in Chicago. There are several hospitals, rehab facilities, and schools in the city, providing speech-language pathologists with a variety of job prospects. Children with speech and language difficulties, stroke patients, and those with brain injuries are just a few of the patient groups that Chicago speech therapists may work with. Chicago’s hectic pace of life may make for a difficult yet incredibly rewarding work environment.

Compared to Chicago, Springfield has a slower, more laid-back pace of life. In Springfield, speech-language pathologists are frequently seen working with children who have speech and language difficulties in educational settings. Speech therapists have the chance to form close bonds with their patients and their families in this environment, providing support and direction as they work to develop communication skills. The more laid-back way of life in Springfield can make working for speech-language pathologists easier and less stressful.

A blend of urban and suburban life is available to speech-language pathologists in Peoria, a mid-sized city in Illinois. Schools, hospitals, and private clinics are just a few of the places where Peoria’s speech therapists may practice. Due to the city’s diverse population, speech-language pathologists may have the chance to deal with a variety of patients. Peoria’s blend of urban and suburban neighborhoods can help speech-language pathologists maintain a healthy work-life balance.