Compensation & Benefits Specialist Salary in Northwest Illinois
Manages employee pay structures, benefits programs, and job classification systems.
Northwest Illinois ranks #135 of 530 U.S. metro areas for compensation & benefits specialist pay. Entry-level salaries here are $1,598 above the national average.
Northwest Illinois vs National Average
| Level | This Metro | National Avg | Difference | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level I (Entry) | $51,854 | $50,256 | +$1,598 | +3.2% |
| Level II | $65,645 | $61,931 | +$3,714 | +6.0% |
| Level III (Mid) | $79,456 | $73,605 | +$5,851 | +7.9% |
| Level IV (Senior) | $93,246 | $85,280 | +$7,966 | +9.3% |
Other metros in Illinois
| Metro Area | Level I | Level IV | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Louis | $55,224 | $96,824 | $83,096 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $51,480 | $95,992 | $81,307 |
| Kankakee | $51,355 | $95,077 | $80,642 |
| Bloomington | $52,645 | $94,037 | $80,371 |
| South Illinois | $57,138 | $82,659 | $74,235 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average compensation & benefits specialist salary in Northwest Illinois?
The average compensation & benefits specialist salary in Northwest Illinois is $79,581 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Northwest Illinois at rank #135 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.
What do entry-level compensation & benefits specialists earn in Northwest Illinois?
Entry-level compensation & benefits specialists (Level I) in Northwest Illinois earn $51,854 per year. Level II (early career) earns $65,645, reflecting growing independence and experience.
How does Northwest Illinois compare to the national average for compensation & benefits specialist salaries?
Northwest Illinois ranks #135 of 530 U.S. metro areas for compensation & benefits specialist pay. Entry-level salaries here are $1,598 above the national average. The national average compensation & benefits specialist salary is $73,722, while Northwest Illinois workers average $79,581 — a difference of +8% overall.
Data source: Salary data sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, which surveys employers nationwide to collect wage data by occupation and geography. The four experience levels reflect DOL standardized tiers. Data reflects the most recently published survey cycle. SOC code: 13-1141.