Cost Estimator Salary in Northwest Illinois
Collects and analyzes data to estimate the time, materials, and costs required for a project.
Northwest Illinois ranks #55 of 530 U.S. metro areas for cost estimator pay. Entry-level salaries here are $2,188 above the national average.
Northwest Illinois vs National Average
| Level | This Metro | National Avg | Difference | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level I (Entry) | $50,398 | $48,210 | +$2,188 | +4.5% |
| Level II | $68,286 | $61,900 | +$6,386 | +10.3% |
| Level III (Mid) | $86,195 | $75,591 | +$10,604 | +14.0% |
| Level IV (Senior) | $104,083 | $89,282 | +$14,801 | +16.6% |
Other metros in Illinois
| Metro Area | Level I | Level IV | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $53,893 | $100,547 | $85,155 |
| St. Louis | $48,152 | $95,638 | $79,976 |
| Kankakee | $50,253 | $93,933 | $79,518 |
| Paducah | $52,312 | $92,768 | $79,414 |
| Decatur | $49,962 | $92,789 | $78,645 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost estimator salary in Northwest Illinois?
The average cost estimator salary in Northwest Illinois is $86,362 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Northwest Illinois at rank #55 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.
What do entry-level cost estimators earn in Northwest Illinois?
Entry-level cost estimators (Level I) in Northwest Illinois earn $50,398 per year. Level II (early career) earns $68,286, reflecting growing independence and experience.
How does Northwest Illinois compare to the national average for cost estimator salaries?
Northwest Illinois ranks #55 of 530 U.S. metro areas for cost estimator pay. Entry-level salaries here are $2,188 above the national average. The national average cost estimator salary is $75,728, while Northwest Illinois workers average $86,362 — a difference of +14% 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: 13-1051.