What is the average salary in Lake Forest, IL?
Lake Forest, IL offers a range of salary opportunities for job seekers. The average yearly salary in the area is $75,631. This figure reflects the diverse job market and the potential for competitive compensation. Salaries vary across different industries, offering a variety of options for professionals.
The salary distribution in Lake Forest shows a broad spectrum of earnings. The top-paying sectors include management, finance, and healthcare. These industries often offer higher salaries, with some positions reaching up to $191,000 per year. Other notable sectors include education, technology, and engineering, which also provide attractive salary packages. This diversity in salary offerings makes Lake Forest an appealing location for job seekers looking to advance their careers.
What are the best paying jobs in Lake Forest, IL?

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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $88,481
Registered Nurses provide care to patients and help doctors with medical procedures. They work in hospitals and clinics, ensuring patients receive the best care. Many healthcare facilities in the area offer competitive benefits and opportunities for advancement.
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Tool and Die Maker
Average Salary: $63,617
Tool and Die Makers create molds and dies used in manufacturing. They work with precision tools and machinery to produce high-quality parts. Companies in the area value skilled makers who can improve production efficiency.
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Server
Average Salary: $48,903
Servers work in restaurants, taking orders and serving food and drinks. They interact with customers to ensure a pleasant dining experience. Many local restaurants offer tips, which can increase earnings.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $47,268
Maintenance Technicians repair and maintain equipment and facilities. They work in various settings, including schools and offices. Their skills are crucial for keeping operations running smoothly.
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Customer Service Representative
Average Salary: $41,315
Customer Service Representatives assist customers with inquiries and issues. They work in call centers or offices, helping to resolve problems and improve customer satisfaction. Many companies offer training and career growth opportunities.
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Cook
Average Salary: $36,715
Cooks prepare meals in restaurants and other food service establishments. They follow recipes and ensure food quality and safety. Many local eateries value cooks who can create delicious and consistent dishes.
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Cleaner
Average Salary: $33,519
Cleaners maintain cleanliness in various settings, such as offices and homes. They use cleaning products and equipment to ensure a tidy environment. Many employers offer flexible schedules and entry-level positions.
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Barista
Average Salary: $33,206
Baristas prepare coffee and other beverages in cafes. They interact with customers to take orders and provide a friendly service. Many local coffee shops offer a welcoming atmosphere and opportunities for learning new skills.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $32,940
Dishwasher wash dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. They work in restaurants and food service establishments. Their attention to detail ensures a clean and efficient kitchen.
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Team Member
Average Salary: $29,469
Team Members assist in various roles, such as retail or hospitality. They provide customer service and support daily operations. Many employers offer training and opportunities for advancement.
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What are the best paying jobs in Lake Forest, IL without a degree?

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Server
Average Salary: $48,903
Serve food and drinks to customers. Work in restaurants, cafes, and hotels. Gain experience in customer service. Companies like Applebee's and local eateries offer these roles.
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Lawn Care Technician
Average Salary: $41,417
Maintain lawns and gardens. Mow, trim, and water plants. Work for landscaping companies. Gain experience in outdoor maintenance. Local businesses offer these positions.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $38,561
Prepare food in a fast-paced kitchen. Cook meals quickly and efficiently. Work in restaurants and cafes. Gain experience in food preparation. Local eateries offer these roles.
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Barista
Average Salary: $33,206
Make coffee and other drinks. Serve customers in cafes and restaurants. Gain experience in customer service. Local coffee shops offer these positions.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $32,940
Clean dishes and kitchen equipment. Work in restaurants and cafes. Gain experience in kitchen tasks. Local eateries offer these roles.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $32,528
Clean rooms and common areas. Work in hotels and motels. Gain experience in cleaning and organization. Local accommodations offer these positions.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $30,838
Help servers with tasks. Assist in serving food and drinks. Work in restaurants. Gain experience in customer service. Local eateries offer these roles.
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General Production Laborer
Average Salary: $30,522
Perform various tasks in a production setting. Work in factories and manufacturing plants. Gain experience in assembly and quality control. Local companies offer these positions.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Lake Forest, IL?

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Abbott
Average Salary: $140,789
Abbott is a global healthcare leader. They focus on diagnostics, medical devices, nutrition, and branded generic medicines. Abbott offers competitive salaries and benefits.
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Reynolds Consumer Products
Average Salary: $115,862
Reynolds Consumer Products makes well-known brands like Reynolds Wrap and Swiffer. They value innovation and employee growth. Their salaries reflect their commitment to their staff.
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Grainger
Average Salary: $108,608
Grainger supplies businesses with tools and products. They offer a wide range of career opportunities. Grainger pays well and supports professional development.
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Impact Networking, LLC
Average Salary: $94,529
Impact Networking, LLC provides IT services and solutions. They focus on customer satisfaction and employee success. Their salaries are competitive in the industry.
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Pactiv Evergreen
Average Salary: $89,444
Pactiv Evergreen makes sustainable foodservice and food packaging. They are committed to environmental responsibility. Their salaries are fair and reflect their values.
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Northwestern Medicine
Average Salary: $73,171
Northwestern Medicine is a leader in healthcare. They offer a range of medical services. They provide good salaries and benefits for their staff.
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The Infosoft Group
Average Salary: $72,456
The Infosoft Group provides IT consulting and services. They focus on helping businesses succeed. Their salaries are competitive in the tech industry.
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Lake Forest School District
Average Salary: $64,205
Lake Forest School District offers education services. They are dedicated to student success. Their salaries for educators are competitive.
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Lake Forest College
Average Salary: $60,740
Lake Forest College is a private liberal arts college. They offer a range of academic programs. Their salaries for faculty and staff are fair.
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Presbyterian Homes
Average Salary: $52,366
Presbyterian Homes provides senior living services. They focus on quality care and community. Their salaries reflect their commitment to their residents and staff.
How does the cost of living in Lake Forest, IL compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Lake Forest, IL, is notably higher than the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Lake Forest stand at 140, indicating that residents pay 40% more than the average American. This significant increase can impact the budget of those considering a move to the area, as housing is a major expense.
Other expenses also reflect higher costs in Lake Forest. For instance, groceries cost 5% more than the national average, with an index of 105. Utilities are 15% higher, at 115. Transportation costs are 20% above the average, with an index of 120. Healthcare expenses are 10% higher, at 110, while miscellaneous costs are 30% above the average, with an index of 130. These figures show that while Lake Forest offers a high standard of living, it comes with a higher price tag across various sectors.