Illinois vs Ohio: Healthcare Job Market Comparison
Midwest healthcare hubs. Chicago vs. Cleveland Clinic country. Different cost structures, strong pay.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Illinois | Ohio |
|---|---|---|
| Avg RN salary (BLS May 2024) | $84,710 | $79,940 |
| Cost of living (100 = US avg) | 93.4 | 94.0 |
| State income tax (top rate) | 4.95% | 3.5% |
Salary figures are approximate, drawn from public sources including BLS.
Notable Health Systems
Illinois
- • Northwestern Medicine
- • Rush University
- • UChicago Medicine
Ohio
- • Cleveland Clinic
- • Ohio State Wexner
- • University Hospitals
- • OhioHealth
Frequently Asked Questions
Which state pays nurses more, Illinois or Ohio?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), registered nurses in Illinois earn an average of $84,710, compared to $79,940 in Ohio. The gap is roughly $4,770 per year before adjusting for cost of living.
How does the cost of living compare between Illinois and Ohio?
Using the MERIC Q4 2024 cost-of-living index (100 = national average), Illinois is 93.4 and Ohio is 94.0. Illinois (93.4) is the more affordable of the two, while Ohio (94.0) is more expensive. Housing is typically the largest driver of these differences.
Which state has a more favorable tax environment for healthcare providers?
Illinois has a top state income tax rate of 4.95%, while Ohio's top rate is 3.5%. Always factor in property tax, sales tax, and local taxes before making a relocation decision. States with no income tax often offset through higher sales or property taxes.
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