The Fastest Growing Occupations In Illinois

Illinois residents looking for gainful employment should consider one of the top three fastest growing occupations in Illinois.

Jobs are scarce these days, and many live in constant fear of being laid off. 

If you are hoping to enter a field that will grow and have many opportunities, consider one of the top three fastest-growing occupations in Illinois. We break down what each one is and the average salary.

3. Healthcare Professionals and Technical Occupations – 24%

The field of healthcare professionals and technical occupations is huge – it includes any form of a medical job, from nursing to technicians to specialists to therapists, as well as trainers, counselors, surgeons, masseuses, and paramedics.

In this field, your salary is very much tied to what your job is, but the average income is $60,200. 

Physicians and dentists are among the top paid, with an average income of $100,000+, skilled nurses come in just over $50,000, and ambulatory healthcare services average around $37,000.

2. Computer and Mathematical Science Occupations – 28%

The second largest growth in Illinois is expected in the computer and mathematical science fields. 

These jobs include computer and information research occupations, computer and systems analysts, security analysts, software and system developers, web developers, actuaries, mathematicians, statisticians, and mathematical technicians.

The average income for these occupations is $76,270, and there is room for significant growth.

1. Healthcare Support Occupations – 29% increase

Healthcare Support Occupations encompasses a wide range of jobs, almost all of which are expected to see a large growth by 2018. 

They include nursing, psychiatric and home health aides, nursing, occupational therapy and physical therapy assistants and aides, massage therapists, pharmacy aides, and dental and medical assistants.

The average income for these fields is $25,550, though it depends on the specific job.