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Food Preparation Workers Salary in Illinois

Food Preparation Workers in Illinois earn a median of $34,850 a year, −1% compared with the U.S. median.

Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers

Median pay
$34,850
vs. U.S. median
−1% ($35,320)
Rank among states
25 of 51
Jobs in the state
34,820

Pay range in Illinois

The lowest-paid 10% earn under $31,200; the top 10% earn over $44,990. Nationally the range is $25,810 to $45,340.

States ranked near Illinois

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Similar jobs in Illinois

Food Preparation Workers pay in Illinois

How much do food preparation workers make in Illinois?

The median is $34,850 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $31,200 and the top 10% earn over $44,990. BLS OEWS May 2025.

Is Illinois a good state for food preparation workers?

On pay alone it ranks 25 of 51 (−1% vs. the national median of $35,320). Living costs are not included.

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Sources. Pay and employment: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 (national and state files). Pay is not adjusted for living costs. Data Sources & Licenses