In Illinois, what most states call “agents” are “brokers,” and “brokers” are “managing brokers.” This terminology shift affects licensing and roles. Curious about earnings? Real estate brokers in Illinois can earn competitive commissions based on their experience and sales volume.
If you’re considering a real estate career in Illinois or looking to understand the market better, this comprehensive guide explores earning potential across the state and provides proven strategies to maximize your income in this competitive field.
Key Takeaways
- Illinois Brokers Earn Competitive Incomes: Real estate brokers in Illinois earn commission-based incomes that can vary widely depending on their experience, property values, and transaction volume.
- Commissions Are Split Multiple Ways: Brokers typically share commissions with other brokers and their managing broker, meaning take-home pay is a portion of the total commission.
- Location Strongly Impacts Income: Brokers in Chicago and affluent suburbs typically earn significantly more than those in rural markets, largely due to higher property values and higher sales volumes.
- Experience and Specialization Boost Earnings: Seasoned brokers, managing brokers, and those focusing on luxury or niche markets can significantly increase their income potential.
- Client Relationships Drive Long-Term Success: Building strong networks and repeat business through referrals is one of the most reliable ways to grow earnings over time.
Average Earnings of Real Estate Brokers in Illinois
Real estate brokers in Illinois typically earn their income through negotiable commission, which means their earnings can vary widely. Commissions are usually a percentage of the property’s sale price, agreed upon between the broker and their client. This structure means a broker’s income depends on factors like the number of deals closed, property values, and market conditions.
While some brokers may earn a steady income, others may see fluctuations depending on their experience, specialization, and the demand in their area.
Illinois real estate broker income stats
- Salary.com $77,377
- ZipRecruiter: $83,135
- Indeed: $98,319
- Glassdoor: $176,000
It’s important to remember that real estate income can vary significantly based on individual effort, local market conditions, and the broker’s level of expertise, making each broker’s financial journey unique.
How Do Real Estate Commissions Work in Illinois?
A common misconception about real estate income is that brokers keep the entire commission earned from a sale. However, commissions in Illinois are divided at several levels before reaching the broker’s pocket. Here’s how the process breaks down:
Total property commission
The average commission rate in Illinois is 5.29% of the property’s sale price. However, just as in other states, real estate commissions are negotiable, depending on the specifics of the sale and client agreements.
Broker splits
The total commission is typically split 50/50 between the listing broker (the seller’s broker) and the buyer’s broker. For example:
- Sale Price = $286,669 (Average home value in Illinois, Zillow, September 2025)
- Commission Rate = 5.29%
- Total Commission = $15,165
- Per Broker Share = $7,582 (before broker splits)
Broker splits
Real estate brokers in Illinois work under the supervision of managing brokers, who take a percentage of their commissions in exchange for providing essential resources, such as office space, marketing support, training, and mentorship. For new brokers, the split is typically 50/50, while experienced brokers may negotiate better terms, such as a 70/30 split.
Key Factors Influencing Real Estate Broker Income in Illinois
Explaining the diverse income range of real estate brokers is essential, as earnings can vary widely based on factors such as location, experience, and market conditions.
Experience levels
Experience significantly impacts your earning potential. For example, first-year brokers often earn substantially less while building their client base and market knowledge.
Experienced brokers earn more by building strong reputations and client networks. Their market knowledge helps them spot opportunities, close deals quickly, and secure higher commissions.
Repeat clients and referrals ensure steady business, while their expertise earns trust, leading to premium listings and larger transactions.
Transaction volume
A broker selling 10 homes at $300,000 each will earn significantly more than one selling five houses at the same price point. Similarly, professionals working in luxury markets can earn substantial commissions on fewer transactions.
Property prices
Home prices in Illinois can vary widely, from more affordable options in smaller towns to high-end properties in urban and suburban areas. Real estate broker income in the state depends heavily on the value of the transaction.
Geographic Salary Differences Across Illinois
Where you work in Illinois can affect your earnings as a real estate professional. Urban areas like Chicago often have higher property values and larger commissions due to strong housing demand. Rural areas may have lower property values and smaller commissions but face less competition among brokers.
Chicago metropolitan area
According to ZipRecruiter, real estate brokers in Chicago earn an average annual salary of $215,000. This represents one of the highest earning potentials in the state, reflecting the premium property values and transaction volumes in the city.
Here’s the other income data from the Chicagoland area:
- Arlington Heights: $170,950
- Barrington: $222,507
- Evanston: $81,760
- Glen Ellyn: $171,303
- Highland Park: $122,634
- Lincoln Park: $155,747
- Naperville: $150,029
- Oak Brook: $109,795
- Oak Lawn: $166,894
- Orland Park: $276,115
- Palatine: $157,303
- Schaumburg: $174,914
- Tinley Park: $104,497
- Wheaton: $179,885
Income data: Glassdoor, September 2025
Income Factors Within Chicagoland
The significant income variation across Chicagoland communities reflects several key factors:
- Property Values: Areas with median home prices above $750,000 typically generate 30-40% higher broker incomes
- Transaction Volume: Some brokers in more affordable areas compensate with higher transaction counts
- Market Competition: Premium areas attract more experienced brokers, creating more competitive environments
- Specialization: Brokers focusing on luxury properties or commercial real estate in any of these communities often earn substantially more than the area average
Top real estate markets in Illinois outside Chicagoland
Here’s income data for other top real estate markets in Illinois:
- Bloomington-Normal: $144,693
- Champaign-Urbana: $248,287
- Rockford: $250,146
Rural Illinois
Rural areas typically feature lower transaction volumes and property values, resulting in lower overall income potential. However, these markets often have fewer competing brokers, allowing motivated professionals to capture a larger market share.
Strategies to Increase Real Estate Broker Income in Illinois
By adopting focused strategies tailored to the unique characteristics of Illinois’ diverse real estate markets, brokers can unlock new opportunities and achieve higher income potential.
Specialize in a niche market
Focusing on specific property types or client demographics can enhance your value proposition and increase your commission rates. Consider specializations like:
- Luxury properties
- Investment properties
- First-time homebuyers
- Relocation services
- New construction
Become a managing broker
Pursuing a managing broker license after gaining 2+ years of experience can open doors to higher earnings through:
- Better commission splits
- Team leadership opportunities
- Potential ownership stakes in brokerages
According to Salary.com, a manager broker in Illinois earns an average income of $217,956.
Build a strong online presence
Digital visibility directly correlates with earning potential. Successful strategies include:
- Professional social media profiles
- Regular content marketing
- Targeted digital advertising
- Virtual tours and property videos
- Client review management
Save time improving your online marketing efforts by using AI tools. Become a Real Estate AI Specialist to learn more.
Focus on client relationship management
According to the National Association of REALTORS®, up to 66% of real estate business comes from referrals and repeat clients. Developing strong client relationships through exceptional service and regular follow-up can significantly increase long-term income.
Building Your Path to Success
If you’re ready to unlock the potential of a financially rewarding career in real estate, obtaining your Illinois real estate license is the first crucial step.
Your real estate journey starts with the right education. Colibri Real Estate School offers flexible courses to help you pass your licensing exam and build skills for lasting success.
Our award-winning student dashboard provides a seamless learning experience with tools to track progress, set goals, and access personalized resources. Prepare for exam day with confidence using our CompuCram-powered exam prep, designed to mirror your state exam, and backed by our Pass or Don’t Pay Guarantee.
Learn from local expert instructors with real-world experience in your state’s market and choose from flexible formats, including self-paced online courses or livestream classes. Prefer audio? Listen to your pre-licensing courses anytime, anywhere.
At Colibri Real Estate, your success is our priority. Join hundreds of thousands of satisfied students and start your journey today!
