Average Rheumatologist Salary in Illinois

As of September 28, 2025, a Rheumatologist in Illinois earns approximately $350,000 per year ($29,167 monthly). Based on an average 45-hour work week, this translates to about $150 per hour. Looking for a broader view? See the Rheumatologist salary overview or compare nearby states like Arizona, Nevada, and Oregon.

How Much Do Rheumatologists Make in Illinois?

From 23 verified physician salary submissions in Illinois, SalaryDr is seeing total compensation ranging from $340,000 to $365,000, with top performers (90th percentile) earning up to $370,000 annually. Compared to the national median of $350,000, Rheumatologist salaries in Illinois are in line with the national median.

Bonuses, Hours Worked, and Job Satisfaction

In Illinois, the salary progression for rheumatologist physicians shows significant growth potential. Entry-level positions start at $339,000, while those with more than 10 years of experience earn a typical salary of $356,538 - a 5% increase.

Local Practice Settings and Employers

On average, base salary accounts for 83% of total compensation—about $289,783—with the remaining amount coming from bonuses, profit sharing, and incentives.

Work-Life Balance in Illinois

Local rheumatologist physicians report 3.4/5 career satisfaction, with 96% of those surveyed saying they would choose this specialty again.

Salary Distribution

Distribution based on 23 verified physician salary submissions.

Median Salary: $350,000

Physician Satisfaction in Rheumatology

Satisfaction Rating

3.4/5

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

Would Choose Again

96%

Percentage of Rheumatology 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

$348,913

Median Salary

$350,000

Salary Range

$340,000 - $365,000

National Comparison

National Average

$348,913

Difference

+0% vs National Average

Sample Size

23 local / 23 national reports

Salary by Practice Type

Academic
Average Salary
$354,545
Sample Size
11 submissions
Hospital-employed
Average Salary
$342,500
Sample Size
10 submissions

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

Salary by Experience Level

0-2 years
Average Salary
$285,000
Sample Size
1 submissions
3-5 years
Average Salary
$345,000
Sample Size
9 submissions
6-10 years
Average Salary
$356,538
Sample Size
13 submissions

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

Take-Home Pay Calculator

Total Salary
$350,000
Federal Income Tax
-$92,874
State Income Tax
-$17,325
FICA Tax
-$16,878
Take-Home Pay
$222,923
Monthly
$18,577
Taxes (36.3%)
Take-Home (63.7%)
Based on single filing status in Illinois. Results may vary.

Subspecialty Comparison

Lupus

Average Salary
$368,125
Sample Size
8 submissions
Focuses on specialized lupus procedures and treatments within rheumatology, providing expert care in this specific area.

Research

Average Salary
$356,818
Sample Size
11 submissions
Focuses on specialized research procedures and treatments within rheumatology, providing expert care in this specific area.

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

* Data is aggregated from verified physician submissions.

Rheumatology Market Insights: Illinois

Local market conditions, cost of living, and opportunities for Rheumatology 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:
$368,421
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 Rheumatology positions with comprehensive benefits packages.

Market Opportunities

Academic Medicine

Teaching hospitals and medical schools offer Rheumatology positions with research opportunities.

Private Practice

Established and startup practices seeking Rheumatology physicians with partnership potential.

Locum Tenens

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

Key Market Factors for Rheumatology in Illinois

Advantages:

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

Considerations:

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

Considering a move to Illinois?

Compare Rheumatology salaries across different locations and practice settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about physician salaries in Rheumatology 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 Rheumatology in Illinois

Complete guide for physicians looking to transition careers or relocate to Rheumatology 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 Rheumatology 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 Rheumatology 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.

Rheumatology Career Opportunities in Illinois

Explore current job openings and career paths for Rheumatology physicians

3 Job Types Available$340,000 - $365,000Illinois

Rheumatology - Hospital Employed

IllinoisHospital Employment
$323,000 - $346,750/year

Join our healthcare team as a Rheumatology 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 Rheumatology
  • Valid medical license
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Commitment to quality patient care
Posted: RecentlyApplications: OpenType: Full-time

Rheumatology - Private Practice Opportunity

IllinoisPrivate Practice
$374,000 - $438,000/year

Exciting private practice opportunity for an experienced Rheumatology 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 Rheumatology
  • 2+ years of experience preferred
  • Strong clinical skills
  • Business acumen desired
Posted: RecentlyApplications: OpenType: Full-time

Rheumatology - Locum Tenens

IllinoisLocum Tenens
$204 - $264/hour

Flexible locum tenens opportunities for Rheumatology 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 Rheumatology
  • Active medical license
  • Willingness to travel
  • Adaptability to different settings
Posted: RecentlyApplications: OpenType: Full-time

Ready to Advance Your Rheumatology Career?

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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 28, 2025