What is the average salary in Waukegan, IL?
Job seekers in Waukegan, IL, can expect a competitive salary range. The average yearly salary stands at $64,446. This average covers a broad spectrum of occupations. The salary range in this area allows for various opportunities for professionals from different industries.
Here are some of the common salaries across different sectors in Waukegan:
- Entry-level positions around $30,900
- Mid-level roles approximately $56,191
- Experienced positions around $81,482
- Senior or specialized roles up to $170,000
What are the best paying jobs in Waukegan, IL?

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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $114,838
In this role, you will create and manage software applications for various clients. Companies like tech firms and healthcare institutions offer great opportunities. You'll work with teams to design, test, and improve software.
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School Psychologist
Average Salary: $105,616
Helping students thrive in education, this position involves assessing and providing interventions for behavioral and emotional needs. This role works closely with schools and educational services. You'll collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to support students.
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Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $102,344
This job focuses on understanding and improving behaviors. Often working with children with autism or other developmental disorders, you'll develop treatment plans. This role involves collaborating with families and educational staff to achieve positive outcomes.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $101,999
Helping people of all ages improve their ability to perform daily tasks, this role involves working with patients in hospitals or rehab centers. You'll create personalized therapy plans to enhance independence. This position requires strong communication skills and empathy.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $100,419
Working with individuals who have speech, language, or swallowing disorders, you'll develop and implement therapy plans. This role involves collaboration with healthcare providers and educators. You'll help patients improve their communication skills and quality of life.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $85,996
Registered nurses provide essential care to patients in hospitals or clinics. You'll monitor patient health, administer treatments, and educate patients. This role requires strong clinical skills and compassion. Working in healthcare facilities, you'll make a significant impact on patient well-being.
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Respiratory Therapist
Average Salary: $82,481
Specializing in respiratory care, you'll help patients who have breathing difficulties. This role involves assessing, treating, and managing patients with conditions such as asthma and COPD. You'll work in hospitals and clinics, making a difference in people's lives.
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Social Worker
Average Salary: $78,376
Social workers help individuals and families in need. You'll provide support, resources, and interventions to improve well-being. This role involves working with various agencies and community organizations. You'll advocate for clients and help them navigate challenges.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $75,939
Transporting goods across long distances, you'll operate large vehicles. This role requires a commercial driver's license and adherence to safety regulations. You'll work for logistics companies, ensuring timely delivery of products. This job offers the chance to travel and meet new people.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $72,333
LPNs provide basic patient care in various healthcare settings. You'll assist with daily living activities, monitor health, and administer treatments. This role requires strong communication and attention to detail. You'll work closely with RNs and doctors to ensure quality care.
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What are the best paying jobs in Waukegan, IL without a degree?

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Yard Worker
Average Salary: $37,489
Help maintain parks and recreational areas. Tasks include mowing lawns and trimming shrubs. Work in collaboration with local landscape companies and community services.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $37,455
Prepare meals and assist with kitchen duties. Work in local restaurants or cafes, ensuring food is ready for service. Collaboration with kitchen staff is key to a smooth operation.
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Barista
Average Salary: $35,608
Serve coffee and other beverages. Interact with customers at coffee shops. Gain experience with various brewing methods and coffee equipment.
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Food Service Aide
Average Salary: $34,363
Assist in food preparation and service. Work in dining areas, ensuring customers are served quickly. Collaborate with kitchen and service staff to maintain smooth operations.
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Server
Average Salary: $33,892
Take orders and serve food and drinks to customers. Work in local restaurants and eateries. Focus on providing excellent customer service and ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $32,807
Maintain cleanliness and order in homes or facilities. Tasks include vacuuming, dusting, and organizing. Work with property management companies and hotel chains.
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Recreation Assistant
Average Salary: $31,107
Assist in organizing recreational activities for community members. Tasks include leading games and sports. Work with local parks and recreation departments.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Waukegan, IL?

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Abbott
Average Salary: $154,540
Abbott offers healthcare products, medical devices, nutritional products, and more. Employees value its reputation and opportunities for career growth.
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State of Illinois
Average Salary: $98,786
The State of Illinois provides a wide range of services to residents. It is a stable employer with a good benefits package.
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ProCare Therapy
Average Salary: $93,206
ProCare Therapy focuses on healthcare staffing. It provides good compensation and opportunities for professional development.
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Soliant
Average Salary: $92,291
Soliant offers staffing and recruiting services for healthcare and education. It is known for its competitive salaries and supportive work environment.
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Sunbelt Staffing
Average Salary: $91,765
Sunbelt Staffing specializes in temporary staffing for healthcare and education sectors. It offers a robust compensation package and benefits.
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TEKsystems
Average Salary: $81,805
TEKsystems provides IT staffing services. It is a reputable company known for its opportunities in technology and professional growth.
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AkzoNobel
Average Salary: $76,873
AkzoNobel manufactures paints and coatings. It offers a competitive salary and benefits for employees in manufacturing and design.
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Uline
Average Salary: $74,770
Uline supplies shipping and packaging materials. It is a well-known company that offers good pay and career advancement opportunities.
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Elevate Care
Average Salary: $66,898
Elevate Care provides home healthcare services. It offers a supportive environment with good compensation.
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Lake County, IL
Average Salary: $66,414
Lake County, IL, employs staff in various government services. It provides a stable job with a solid benefits package.
How does the cost of living in Waukegan, IL compare to the national average?

When comparing the cost of living index in Waukegan, IL, to the nationwide average, there are some notable differences across different categories. The housing index in Waukegan stands at 95, which means it costs 5% less than the national average. For those looking to buy or rent a home, this can represent a significant savings. The grocery index is slightly higher at 98, indicating a very minor increase over the national average, making it almost on par with the rest of the country.
In other areas, Waukegan's cost of living is slightly lower. The transportation index is at 90, reflecting a 10% decrease compared to the national average. This could be beneficial for those relying on personal vehicles. Utilities cost the same as the national average at 100, offering no change in expenses here. Healthcare, with an index of 97, shows a minor reduction of 3%, and miscellaneous expenses, at 92, present a decrease of 8%. Overall, job seekers may find Waukegan more affordable in several key areas, making it a potentially attractive location for living and working.



