Average Critical Care Salary in Illinois

As of September 29, 2025, a Critical Care in Illinois earns approximately $400,000 per year ($33,333 monthly). Based on an average 54-hour work week, this translates to about $156 per hour. Looking for a broader view? See the Critical Care salary overview or compare nearby states like Arizona, Nevada, and Oregon.

How Much Do Critical Cares Make in Illinois?

From 6 verified physician salary submissions in Illinois, SalaryDr is seeing total compensation ranging from $350,000 to $520,000, with top performers (90th percentile) earning up to $626,520 annually. Compared to the national median of $400,000, Critical Care salaries in Illinois are in line with the national median.

Bonuses, Hours Worked, and Job Satisfaction

In Illinois, the salary progression for critical care physicians shows significant growth potential. Entry-level positions start at $367,500, while those with more than 10 years of experience earn a typical salary of $474,130 - a 29% increase.

Local Practice Settings and Employers

On average, base salary accounts for 92% of total compensation—about $405,253—with the remaining amount coming from bonuses, profit sharing, and incentives.

Work-Life Balance in Illinois

Local critical care physicians report 3.3/5 career satisfaction, with 83% of those surveyed saying they would choose this specialty again.

Salary Distribution

Distribution based on 6 verified physician salary submissions.

Median Salary: $400,000

Physician Satisfaction in Critical Care

Satisfaction Rating

3.3/5

Average satisfaction rating reported by Critical Care physicians (1-5 scale).

Would Choose Again

83%

Percentage of Critical Care physicians who would choose this specialty again.

Career Satisfaction

Physicians cite the variety of cases and patient relationships as most rewarding aspects of this specialty.

Primary Challenges

On-call demands, administrative burden, and work-life balance are cited as the top challenges.

Salary Comparison

Location Statistics

Average Salary

$438,587

Median Salary

$400,000

Salary Range

$350,000 - $520,000

National Comparison

National Average

$438,587

Difference

+0% vs National Average

Sample Size

6 local / 6 national reports

Salary by Practice Type

Hospital-employed
Average Salary
$420,000
Sample Size
3 submissions

* Practice types with fewer than 3 submissions may be omitted for privacy.

Salary by Experience Level

0-2 years
Average Salary
$367,500
Sample Size
2 submissions
3-5 years
Average Salary
$458,840
Sample Size
3 submissions
11-15 years
Average Salary
$520,000
Sample Size
1 submissions

* Experience levels with fewer than 3 submissions may be omitted for privacy.

Take-Home Pay Calculator

Total Salary
$400,000
Federal Income Tax
-$110,374
State Income Tax
-$19,800
FICA Tax
-$18,053
Take-Home Pay
$251,773
Monthly
$20,981
Taxes (37.1%)
Take-Home (62.9%)
Based on single filing status in Illinois. Results may vary.

Critical Care Market Insights: Illinois

Local market conditions, cost of living, and opportunities for Critical Care physicians in Illinois.

Cost of Living Analysis

Overall Cost Index:95% of national average
Housing Costs:79% of national average
Healthcare Costs:103% of national average
State Income Tax:Yes
Tax Burden:Medium
Salary Adjusted for Cost of Living:
$421,053
Higher cost of living reduces purchasing power by -5%

Major Healthcare Employers

1
Northwestern Medicine
Major healthcare employer in Illinois
2
Rush University Medical Center
Major healthcare employer in Illinois
3
University of Chicago Medicine
Major healthcare employer in Illinois
Career Tip: These health systems often offer competitive Critical Care positions with comprehensive benefits packages.

Market Opportunities

Academic Medicine

Teaching hospitals and medical schools offer Critical Care positions with research opportunities.

Private Practice

Established and startup practices seeking Critical Care physicians with partnership potential.

Locum Tenens

High-demand temporary positions offering flexibility and competitive hourly rates.

Key Market Factors for Critical Care in Illinois

Advantages:

  • • Below-average cost of living
  • • Growing demand for Critical Care services
  • • Established medical community

Considerations:

  • • Malpractice insurance requirements
  • • State licensing and credentialing process
  • • Competition from established practices

Considering a move to Illinois?

Compare Critical Care salaries across different locations and practice settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about physician salaries in Critical Care in Illinois.

Data Source: All salary information is based on verified submissions from practicing physicians and is updated regularly to reflect current market conditions.

How to Transition to Critical Care in Illinois

Complete guide for physicians looking to transition careers or relocate to Critical Care in Illinois.

6 Steps6 Months
1

Assess Your Current Position

Evaluate your current specialty, compensation, job satisfaction, and career goals. Identify specific reasons for wanting to transition and what you hope to achieve.

2

Research Target Opportunities

Investigate Critical Care opportunities in Illinois, including salary ranges, practice settings, required qualifications, and market demand.

Learn more →
3

Identify Skill Gaps

Compare your current qualifications with requirements for your target role. Identify any additional training, certifications, or experience needed for a successful transition.

4

Network with Professionals

Connect with Critical Care physicians in Illinois through medical associations, conferences, and professional networks. Conduct informational interviews to gain insights.

5

Develop Transition Plan

Create a timeline for your transition including any required training, licensing requirements, financial planning for potential income changes, and family considerations.

6

Execute Your Transition

Begin applying for positions, complete any required training, and manage the logistics of your career change including contract negotiations and relocation if necessary.

Professional Tip: This guide provides general recommendations. Always consult with career advisors, mentors, and legal professionals for personalized advice specific to your situation.

Critical Care Career Opportunities in Illinois

Explore current job openings and career paths for Critical Care physicians

3 Job Types Available$350,000 - $520,000Illinois

Critical Care - Hospital Employed

IllinoisHospital Employment
$332,500 - $494,000/year

Join our healthcare team as a Critical Care physician. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth in a collaborative environment.

Benefits & Perks

  • Comprehensive health insurance
  • Retirement plan with matching
  • CME allowance and paid time off
  • Malpractice insurance coverage
  • Sign-on bonus available

Requirements

  • Board certification in Critical Care
  • Valid medical license
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Commitment to quality patient care
Posted: RecentlyApplications: OpenType: Full-time

Critical Care - Private Practice Opportunity

IllinoisPrivate Practice
$385,000 - $624,000/year

Exciting private practice opportunity for an experienced Critical Care physician. Partnership track available with established patient base and modern facilities.

Benefits & Perks

  • Partnership opportunity
  • Productivity bonuses
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Modern equipment and facilities
  • Marketing support

Requirements

  • Board certification in Critical Care
  • 2+ years of experience preferred
  • Strong clinical skills
  • Business acumen desired
Posted: RecentlyApplications: OpenType: Full-time

Critical Care - Locum Tenens

IllinoisLocum Tenens
$210 - $376/hour

Flexible locum tenens opportunities for Critical Care physicians. Choose your schedule and location while earning competitive hourly rates.

Benefits & Perks

  • Flexible scheduling
  • Travel and housing provided
  • Malpractice coverage
  • Competitive hourly rates
  • No administrative duties

Requirements

  • Board certification in Critical Care
  • Active medical license
  • Willingness to travel
  • Adaptability to different settings
Posted: RecentlyApplications: OpenType: Full-time

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Note: Job postings are representative examples based on current market conditions. Actual positions may vary in requirements, compensation, and benefits. Always verify details with employers directly.

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About Our Data

Our salary data is based on anonymous submissions from practicing physicians across the United States. We verify and clean the data to ensure accuracy and remove outliers.

Last updated: September 29, 2025