14.1 Illinois CNA Salary, Benefits, and Employment Outlook
Key Takeaways
- Illinois CNA average salary ranges from $35,000-$45,000 annually ($17-$22/hour)
- Hospitals offer the highest CNA pay; staffing agencies offer flexible, higher-rate work
- Illinois has a CNA Pay Scale Subsidy Program to increase nursing home CNA wages
- Shift differentials for evening, night, and weekend shifts add $1-$3/hour
- Job growth for CNAs is projected at 5-8%, faster than average, driven by the aging population
- Advancing to LPN or RN significantly increases salary potential
Last updated: March 2026
Illinois CNA Salary, Benefits, and Employment Outlook
Working as a CNA in Illinois offers a stable career in healthcare with opportunities for growth. Understanding the job market, salary expectations, and employment settings will help you make informed career decisions.
Illinois CNA Salary Overview (2026)
| Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Annual Salary | $35,000 - $45,000 |
| Average Hourly Wage | $17 - $22 per hour |
| Entry-Level | $30,000 - $35,000 |
| Experienced (5+ years) | $40,000 - $50,000 |
| Chicago Metro Area | $38,000 - $48,000 |
| Rural Illinois | $30,000 - $38,000 |
Illinois CNA Pay Scale Subsidy Program
Illinois has implemented a CNA Pay Scale Subsidy Program to address workforce shortages in nursing homes:
- Facilities receive state funding to increase CNA wages
- The program aims to improve retention and reduce turnover
- Facilities that participate must demonstrate that funds go directly to CNA compensation
- Check with your employer to see if they participate in this program
Salary by Employment Setting
| Setting | Typical Salary Range | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Hospital | $38,000 - $50,000 | Highest pay; fast-paced; acute care |
| Long-Term Care/Nursing Home | $32,000 - $42,000 | Most common setting; chronic care |
| Home Health | $30,000 - $40,000 | Flexible schedule; one-on-one care |
| Assisted Living | $30,000 - $38,000 | Lower acuity; more independent residents |
| Rehabilitation Center | $35,000 - $45,000 | Goal-oriented care; shorter stays |
| Hospice | $33,000 - $42,000 | End-of-life care; emotionally demanding |
| Staffing Agency | $35,000 - $55,000 | Higher hourly rates; less job security; varying locations |
Common CNA Benefits
| Benefit | Availability |
|---|---|
| Health Insurance | Most full-time positions |
| Dental and Vision | Many employers |
| Paid Time Off | Varies by employer (1-3 weeks) |
| Retirement Plan (401k) | Larger facilities |
| Tuition Reimbursement | Many healthcare employers |
| Shift Differentials | Evening, night, and weekend premium pay |
| Overtime | Available, especially during staffing shortages |
| Training and Advancement | In-service training, career ladder programs |
Employment Outlook
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Growth | Projected 5-8% growth (faster than average) |
| Demand Drivers | Aging population, chronic disease prevalence, staffing shortages |
| Job Availability | High — CNAs are consistently in demand across Illinois |
| Turnover Rate | High in LTC (opportunity for advancement-minded CNAs) |
| Staffing Shortages | Ongoing in many Illinois facilities — leverage for better pay/benefits |
Tips for Maximizing Your CNA Salary
- Get experience — Even 1-2 years of experience significantly increases your earning potential
- Consider hospital employment — Hospitals typically pay the highest CNA wages
- Work evening/night/weekend shifts — Shift differentials add $1-$3 per hour
- Pursue certifications — Medication aide, EKG technician, phlebotomy add earning potential
- Use staffing agencies — Can offer higher hourly rates, especially for per diem work
- Negotiate — Use competing offers to negotiate better pay, especially during shortages
- Advance your education — LPN and RN programs offer significant salary increases
Test Your Knowledge
Which healthcare setting typically offers the HIGHEST salary for CNAs in Illinois?
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Test Your Knowledge
What is the average hourly wage for a CNA in Illinois in 2026?
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