Crane and Tower Operators Salary in Illinois (2025)
✓ Sourced directly from BLS OES · Checked for accuracy at every rebuild · First published: 2026-08-25 · Last updated: 2026-10-25
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Overview
The median wage for crane and tower operators in Illinois is $61,820 per year (gross, before tax) — 9.2% below the US national median of $68,080 for this occupation. Figures are from BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025). Around 1,000 people work in this occupation in Illinois. Negotiating an offer in Illinois? A good salary negotiation guide helps you make the case for the upper percentiles.
Illinois Salary Percentiles
| Percentile | Annual (gross) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10th | $41,470 | Entry level / lowest decile |
| 25th | $46,170 | Early career |
| 50th (median) | $61,820 | Typical pay |
| 75th | $83,030 | Experienced |
| 90th | $131,280 | Senior / highest decile |
Career Essentials
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Start $1 Trial →How Illinois Compares
| State | Median salary | vs national |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $124,260 | +82.5% |
| Nevada | $115,840 | +70.2% |
| Rhode Island | $104,340 | +53.3% |
| Washington | $101,110 | +48.5% |
| New Jersey | $100,640 | +47.8% |
| Massachusetts | $98,150 | +44.2% |
| Alaska | $92,490 | +35.9% |
| Maryland | $87,950 | +29.2% |
| New York | $85,850 | +26.1% |
| Oregon | $83,260 | +22.3% |
| Illinois | $61,820 | -9.2% |
All states for crane and tower operators →
Recommended Gear & Prep
Interviewing in Illinois? Interview prep books cover the common question sets.
All salaries in Illinois · UK data for this occupation
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a crane and tower operators in Illinois?
The median salary in Illinois is $61,820 per year (gross, before tax), based on BLS OES May 2025 data. The mean is $71,380.
How does Illinois pay compare to the US national average?
Illinois is 9.2% below the US national median of $68,080 for this occupation.
Which US state pays crane and tower operators the most?
Hawaii has the highest median pay for this occupation at $124,260 per year. See the state comparison table above for more.
Data: BLS OES, May 2025 · Page built 2026-10-25