Illinois School Counselor Salary Guide - 2025

School Counselor Certification

by School Counselor Certification Staff

Updated: November 1st, 2024

School Counselor Salaries in Illinois: A Brief Overview

The average salary for school counselors in Illinois varies depending on several factors, including experience, education, and location. While the exact figures fluctuate, it’s generally within a range that’s competitive with other education-related professions – median salary of $76,080 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2023) and projected to grow 6.1% from 2022 to 2032.

Positive Factors Affecting Salary:

  • Experience: As counselors gain more years in the field, their salaries tend to increase.
  • Education: Counselors with advanced degrees, such as a Master’s or Doctorate in Counseling, often command higher salaries.
  • Certifications: Additional certifications, like the National Certified Counselor (NCC) credential and the National School Counselor Certification (NSCC), can boost earning potential.
  • Location: Salaries may vary depending on the geographic location. Urban areas and districts with higher costs of living might offer higher pay.
  • Role and Responsibilities: Counselors in specialized roles or with greater responsibilities may earn more.

Negative Factors Affecting Salary:

  • School District Budget: The financial health of the school district can impact salary levels. Districts facing budget constraints may have limited funds for salary increases.
  • Economic Conditions: Economic downturns can affect public school budgets, potentially limiting salary growth.
  • Union Negotiations: The outcome of union negotiations can influence salary increases.

Why Understanding Salary is Important:

Knowing about salary ranges is crucial for aspiring school counselors for several reasons:

  • Financial Planning: Understanding salary expectations helps individuals make informed decisions about their career path and financial future.
  • Negotiation: Having knowledge of average salaries can empower counselors to negotiate for fair compensation.
  • Career Satisfaction: Knowing the potential earning potential can help ensure that the chosen career aligns with personal financial goals.

By understanding the factors that influence school counselor salaries in Illinois, individuals can make more informed decisions about their career path and negotiate for fair compensation.

Illinois School Counselor Salaries – Visualized

School Counselors Salaries in urban areas of Illinois

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
Bloomington, IL250$61,266
Carbondale-Marion, IL170$56,654
Champaign-Urbana, IL570$64,973
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI9,380$80,414
Danville, IL50$60,743
Decatur, IL100$61,069
Kankakee, IL100$64,717
Peoria, IL290$68,865
Rockford, IL250$72,223
Springfield, IL190$67,215
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2023

School Counselors Salaries in rural areas of Illinois

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
Northwest Illinois nonmetropolitan area250$74,105
West Central Illinois nonmetropolitan area330$64,856
East Central Illinois nonmetropolitan area250$71,723
South Illinois nonmetropolitan area150$63,114
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2023